What to know before deciding to pack your child off to camp

The school year is ending, so you may be wondering how you’ll keep your child engaged in activities and learning until school starts back up again. One way is by sending your child to a summer camp. Summer camp not only keeps children entertained throughout the summer, but also helps them make new friends, provides new opportunities and builds their character.

There are a wide variety of summer camps catering to a multitude of interests. There are summer camps for academics, art, sports, theater and camps for children with special needs. There are also different ways camp is held to accommodate children, including overnight camps, day camps and virtual camps. Whatever you’re looking for, there’s a summer camp that’s right for your family.

Better Business Bureau offers these tips to consider when selecting a summer camp:

■ Ask friends and family their experience sending their kids to summer camps in the region and weigh their opinions into your decisions.

■ Choose what you want your child to get out of a summer camp experience, such as learning experiences or physical activity. Talk to your child to know which camp he or she would enjoy.

■ Know your budget and stick to it. There are plenty of summer camps out there for all price ranges.

■ Don’t choose a camp duration that’s longer than both you and your child are uncomfortable with.

■ Decide how structured you want the program to be. Is your child OK with little choice throughout the day or does he or she need more structure.

■ Ask for an example of what campers at the camp will do in a day.

■ Find out if the camp is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). ACA accreditation demonstrates the camp’s commitment to the health and wellness of the children in the program.

■ Visit the camp. Get to know the tone and vibe of the camp. Are the employees nice? Does the camp’s core belief system align with yours and your child’s? Inquire about staff training, onsite medical care, student-to-instructor ratios, camper-return rates and staff background checks. Ask about safety rules and how they are enforced.

■ Ensure the camp is able to meet your child’s dietary and physical needs. Will meals and snacks be provided or do you need to pack them?

■ Ask if the camp provides camper health and accident insurance or whether the parent needs to provide coverage.