Choosing the right summer camp — BBB offers tips for parents
JOPLIN, Mo. — Parents may already be thinking of activities for their children to do this summer.
If you’re thinking about summer camp – the Better Business Bureau recommends you use extra precautions when choosing one.
They say the first step is to ask your child what type of camp interests them – such as sleepaway camps or day camps.
After that – it’s encouraged to ask friends, family members or even teachers what kind of experiences they’ve had there.
“Digital spring cleaning” tips from BBB
You can also look up any provider on the BBB website – or you can visit the American Camp Association to see if they have a BBB accreditation.
“When you’re considering a camp, particularly one where your child’s going to spend overnight, try to visit the facility yourself before you pay anything or sign any contracts. Ask about safety, medical facilities, what the procedures are in an emergency, what the communication is with parents,” said Pamela Hernandez, BBB Springfield Regional Dir.
Hernandez also recommends asking about the return rates of campers and staff members.
She says a high return rate means those who attended had a safe and enjoyable time.