Questions to ask before choosing a day camp

• Are you licensed by the state or do you hold an accreditation or certification? What exactly does that credential mean?

• What kind of background, training, and experience do counselors and staff have? How are they chosen?

• What is the counselor-to-camper ratio? How many students are in each group? How often are the groups together?

• What kind of medical response is on hand? Camp nurse, or CPR- and first aid-certified staff?

• Are you able to administer medicine?

• What is a typical day like?

• How often will the campers take field trips? Where do they go? Is there increased supervision in populated setting?

• What other resources are available to campers, such as a pool, ice arena, farm, hiking trails, ropes course, archery, etc.? How often will my child be able to participate in these?

• Are lunches or snacks provided?

• Do you offer before- and after-care? Will it be the same staff caring for my child?

• How often are the facilities cleaned?

• What alternative plans do you have for inclement weather?

• What does the camp fee cover? What extra fees will I be required to pay?

• Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?

• What is the refund policy and rules regarding transfer of weeks?

• What is your policy regarding cellphones and other technology items brought to camp?

• How do you handle homesickness and other adjustment issues?

• What is the discipline policy?

• How do you handle bullying?

• What are your drop-off and pick-up policies?

• Will you provide references?