10 key tips to choose the best summer camp for your children and ensure a unique experience for them
You probably don’t want to make this decision lightly — you want your children to learn, have fun, and make new friends.
At English Summer, we offer a wide variety of themed summer camps. Below, we’ve prepared a guide with 10 essential tips to help you choose the best summer camp for your children. Success guaranteed! ;)
10 Tips for Choosing the Best Summer Camp for Kids and Teens
Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to choose the right camp for your children.
The range of available summer camps is growing every year, so it's normal to have questions. After all, families always want the best for their children. But how can you make the right decision? Let’s take a look!
1. Talk to Your Child About the Idea of Attending a Summer Camp
Summer camps are an incredible experience for children — usually both exciting and fun in equal measure. Most kids love them! Especially now that there are themed camps, allowing them to enjoy their favourite activities while making new friends.
However, before making any decisions, it’s important to talk to your child to see how they feel about the idea. Without a doubt, this is a magical and enriching experience that children usually love, but it’s best to gauge their interest and observe their reaction before committing.
For shy or introverted children, it's especially important to explain the benefits of going to summer camp, such as:
Making new friends
Playing engaging and fun activities
Experiencing a week away from home
Improving their English skills and standing out at school
Once they understand the benefits, even those who are hesitant (especially first-timers) might be encouraged to give it a try.
2. Choose the Right Camp Theme
Once you know your child is excited about going to camp, think about what kind of activities they enjoy — every child is different! Some camps are more popular than others, but personal preference is key.
There are sports camps, adventure camps, language camps, arts or tech-focused camps, and more. It’s worth spending time researching, asking questions, and comparing options before choosing.
Talk to your child and explore what theme might suit them best. For instance, some kids love horses or robotics, while others prefer water sports or creative arts.
3. Day Camp or Overnight Camp?
Another big decision when choosing a summer camp is the format: day camp or overnight camp.
Day camps allow children to participate in activities all day and return home at night. Overnight camps provide a full-immersion experience, where children stay at camp for the entire week.
Overnight camps often offer a more authentic, enriching experience, encouraging independence, social interaction, and personal growth. It’s a great opportunity for children to gain confidence and learn how to live alongside others without relying on their families.
That said, not all children are ready to spend a week away from home — especially younger ones or those who aren’t comfortable sleeping away. In those cases, day camps are a fantastic alternative, allowing children to enjoy the camp experience at their own pace.
4. Language Camps Like English Immersion
Language camps — especially English — are incredibly popular among families who want their children to practice in a natural and fun environment.
It’s one of the most effective ways to learn a language: by using it during play and daily activities. It makes the learning process friendlier and more enjoyable.
It’s a smart investment in your child’s future that will pay off in school and beyond.
5. Age Groups
Another key factor is age. Some camps are designed specifically for certain age groups — whether young children or teenagers.
Activities and learning rhythms are always adapted to each developmental stage. Planning for a 6–8-year-old is not the same as for a 14–16-year-old. Young children need close supervision and activities tailored to their abilities, while teens are often more independent.
6. Camp Safety
As a parent, it’s completely natural to be concerned about your child’s safety while at camp. So, when choosing a summer camp, you need to make sure it’s a safe environment.
If it’s your first time sending your child to camp, make sure to ask about staff-to-child ratios, safety protocols, first aid availability, and medical coverage — anything that gives you peace of mind.
7. Camp Meals and Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential when selecting a summer camp. You’ll want to know what kind of meals are provided to ensure they are healthy and balanced.
This is especially important if your child has allergies or food intolerances. In such cases, you’ll need to confirm there’s an adapted menu available and that staff are fully informed to avoid any issues or misunderstandings.
8. Camp Location
Location is another important consideration. Some families prefer camps that are close to home — either for convenience or peace of mind in case of emergencies.
This is particularly helpful for day camps, ideal for children who aren’t quite ready to stay overnight. At English Summer, we offer both options so families can choose what suits them best.
9. Camp Duration
Another key detail is how long the camp lasts. There are short day camps and week-long stays, among other formats.
For first-time campers, starting with a day camp may be the best option. It allows children to test the experience, build confidence, and gradually prepare for longer stays — while giving parents more peace of mind.
10. Price
Although cost should never be the only deciding factor when choosing a summer camp, it’s still important to consider.
You’ll find camps at various price points, offering different programmes and activities according to age.
Still, price alone shouldn’t outweigh the value of the experience. Focus on what’s included — especially if meals, lodging, and themed activities are covered. The quality of the programme matters more than the price tag.
Your Children Are About to Live One of the Best Experiences of Their Lives — Choose English Summer
A summer camp is one of the most fun and enriching experiences you can offer your children. It’s a unique chance to make friends, discover new interests, improve their English, develop independence, and build self-confidence.
To make this experience truly positive and memorable, it’s essential to choose what’s best for them. Take the time to talk with your children about English Summer’s themed camps and help them find one that excites and motivates them.
We hope this guide has made it easier to choose the perfect summer camp for your children. If you have any questions, we’ll be happy to help. We can’t wait to welcome you to our English-themed summer camps! ?