Summer camp: The good, the bad and the ugly.

With less than 2 weeks to go before schools out most parents have made their summer plans, but here’s to the few still making decisions. First things first, summer camp is a luxury that everyone can not afford. The average cost  for  summer camp in Atlanta is $230 a week! With 7 weeks out,  that’s a mortgage payment. Luckily for some their are free programs out there, but more than likely those have been grabbed up by now. With free and low cost always remember you get what you pay for. Not to bash them all, because I’ve heard of some really good free programs. but I’ve also heard horror stories. There are 3 big reasons why you should try really hard to have your little person in camp ESPECIALLY if all they’re gonna do is stay home and watch tv all day.

1.  Exposure
2. Keeps the mind fresh
3. New experiences, new friends

Those are just 3 of MY reasons to support summer camp, now let’s talk the GOOD.

• Going back to exposure. Depending on the camp it will feed and or develop  a hobby or interest.
• Your little person(s) will still enjoy their summer even if your working.
• You know that your child is safe and in a structured environment.

The BAD.

• Some camps serve sack lunches, EVERYDAY. For me this falls into nutritional value, quality of the food and I just don’t like it.
• It could suck if your child isn’t good at meeting new people, but could also be a great learning experience.
• The first week could be really hard. Being dropped of in a new place, with new people.

The UGLY.

• Is the summer camp licensed?  Many camps hire teenagers, that aren’t necessarily trained to deal with a group of kids.
• What kind of new influence are the “new” friends bringing.
• The frequent swimming and field trips really scare me. I know how I watch my kids and students and want to feel just  as safe will my little ones being away from my care.

The biggest thing is to make sure you read reviews, check license, ask questions and that you feel safe dropping your kids off.

As always,                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      I wish you peace and patience in parenting!                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Patrice