07.10.08
Summer Camp Programs - At What Cost?
Gone are the days when summer camp was a luxury. In my mind, it’s now a necessity. Why? With so many dual income/working homes there aren’t that many options to keep your child busy and out of trouble over the summer, especially when a parent isn’t there to supervise.
It will cost thousands of dollars over the next 8 weeks to keep my three children socialized, exercised, safe and away from the computers and video games. WOW!!!!! So how much money does it take to send your kid to camp? Since we live in a major metropolitan area on the east coast the fees are exorbitant. The average summer day camp is between $300 and $600 a week. The average summer sleepaway camp is between $700 to $1000 per week. The more specialized the camp (i.e. baseball, music, computer science) the higher the fee.
Why do we choose to spend so much money? Well, we really don’t have that much of a choice since my husband and I both work full time. Sure we could probably hire a nanny to watch our 3 children for less money but unless she can come up with 2 months of stimulating FREE activities that cater to each of their age groups, it wouldn’t be much of a savings option.
So for 8 weeks our little bundles of mischief and joy get to romp and play in the outdoors, swim, eat tons of ice cream, socialize and make those lovely rope bracelets they insist you wear “all for free” (as my kids say) just so we have peace of mind they are off the streets and challenged by something other than electronic equipment.
When you look at the weekly cost, it’s pretty hard to justify but do we have a choice? Schools aren’t in session 12 months a year and both of us need to work. The best thing for us is we know our kids are safe and supervised. The best thing for them is they are stimulated, well rounded and building life long friendships and memories….so isn’t that worth it?
Stumble it!
Rosie : ) said,
July 15, 2008 at 1:40 pm
There are some cities here in Canada that offer various programs like daytime summer camps, for a very reasonable fees.
I do know of some Playground Camps, that use students in the university field of teaching, to get experience with children (5-14) and give them fun activities to do, crafts and even much outside time.
Also, some YMCA programs for summer camps are not that steep.
There is a need for more summertime babysitters! I remember being about 15 years old and babysitting a family of three for a whole summer. {And what I got paid back then would make you laugh. }
The trick is to look around, and decide what is best for your children, and mainly what you feel comfortable doing.
I know a family of four who let their 12 year old stay at home during the day ( he is very responsible)and has his babysitting course) and I know other families who won’t let their 12 years old stay alone for even 1/2 hour.
We are lucky to be able to let me stay at home with our brood (3 of whom stay at home, 4 who go to school/summer camp), but my husband’s working at home can make it a challenge when all seven kids are home!
Have a fantabulous day.
CreditMom said,
July 15, 2008 at 1:53 pm
Hi Rosie,
I agree with your statement. Every one needs to decide what is best in their own situation…and yes, there are options if you do your research.
Thanks for reading!
Creditmom
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