Summer camp is more than just a place for children to go when school is out. As Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning — DECAL — Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs states, “Attending camp in the summer can help children learn how to work with others, build meaningful relationships, accept guidance, express creativity, and become more independent and confident.” When it comes to finding the best program for their children, however, many families are unsure what to ask.

Essential Questions to Determine If Summer Camps Pass State Requirements

1. Is the Program Licensed or Accredited?

Summer camps and child care services are required to disclose their license status. If the program is not licensed, ask if DECAL has granted them an exemption. Programs that last no longer than 12 hours a day and serve children five years and older may be exempt from licensing.

2. Does the Owner Screen All Staff Members?

The staff plays a big role in the safety and quality of a camp. Make sure all staff members undergo a thorough screening process before joining the program. To determine how selective owners and operators are, find out the methods they use to screen candidates.

3. Are Parents & Guardians Allowed to Visit?

Each child care program has its own policies when it comes to parental and guardian visitation. See if you need to call ahead or if you can simply drop in. For safety reasons, some programs don’t allow visits at all. Consider which policy makes you the most comfortable when choosing a program.

4. Is There a Daily Lesson Plan?

While children should have some level of freedom in choosing activities, a high-quality summer camp needs to have a daily lesson plan. Schedules may include field trips, games, and activities that promote engagement and learning. Ask for a sample itinerary to make sure your child will get the enrichment they need.

5. What Are Their Health & Safety Policies?

Every program needs to have clear, in-depth policies and procedures regarding health, safety, and nutrition. Do they offer healthy meals? What will they do in the case of an emergency? A well-prepared staff is more likely to make the right health and safety decisions for your child.

6. What Is the Staff-to-Child Ratio?

Inquire about each program’s staff-to-child ratio. Does it adhere to the maximum ratios and group sizes outlined by the state of Georgia? DECAL recommends a staff-to-child ratio of 1:18 for four-year-olds with no more than 36 children in a group, 1:20 for five-year-olds with a maximum of 40 kids per group, and 1:25 for children six years and older with no more than 50 kids per group.

7. Is the Staff Trained & Qualified?

To make sure your child is in the right hands, it’s important to know the qualifications of the staff. There should always be an available staff member with CPR and first aid training. See if they have experience with early childhood and school-age care and, if applicable, children with special needs. If the kids are going on field trips, make sure the driver has the appropriate license for transporting children.

Choose a summer camp designed to keep kids active, engaged, and eager to learn. When you sign your child up for the summer program at Cherokee Academy at Clayton of Canton, GA, your child will benefit from a week of fun and educational games, activities, and field trips. As a licensed preschool and child care center, their highly trained team is fully certified to watch after young children and help them grow. Check the summer camp calendar online to see their plans for each weekly session. For enrollment information, call (770) 479-4404.