3 Things to Look For in an Online Summer Camp
Choosing a great camp for your kids can be a puzzle in normal times. Add to that a summer unlike any other and an ever-growing list of online options—the mind reels.
If you’ve never tried an online camp before, you’re likely wondering what you should even be looking for. Here are three of the top factors to consider in your summer camp search.
#1: Exceptional Instructors
For many kids, the novelty of online instruction wore off months ago. If one of your objectives in an online summer camp is that it keeps your kids engaged and occupied, high-quality instructors are absolutely essential.
Questions to consider:
- Do the camp instructors have prior experience working with kids?
- Are the instructors enthusiastic, dynamic, and knowledgeable? Will they get my kids excited about what they’re doing?
- Are there enough staff to engage all the kids? What’s the camper-to-instructor ratio?
#2: High-Quality Content
Chances are that you’re looking for a camp program where your kids learn new things, develop new skills, and have a blast. Steer clear of one-size-fits-all options and opt instead for camps with age-appropriate curriculum that strikes the balance between enriching and fun.
Questions to consider:
- Does the camp provide activities specific to my child’s age group?
- Is the camp hands-on? Will my kid watch, or will my kid do?
- Do the activities support critical thinking and creative expression?
- Do the activities give my child a chance to learn something new or to dig deeper into something they already love?
- For multi-day camps, will my kids be offered enough variety in their daily schedule to ensure they stay interested throughout the week, or do the activities feel repetitive every day?
- Does this camp offer something my child isn’t already getting at school or at home?
#3: Easy-Peasy Logistics
You know what’s awesome? Summer camp. You know what’s not awesome? Technical issues and last-minute supply scrambles. For an experience that’s all fun and no frustration, look for a camp that’s got their logistics on lock.
Questions to consider:
- Is the camp’s video conferencing tool one we know how to use or can easily learn?
- What kind of supplies will be used during the camp day? How will we know?
- Will I get an email with everything I need to know to get ready for camp?
Experience Camp Magic, Anywhere.
No matter where they are, kids should be able to experience the unforgettable fun of summer camp. At Galileo Online, Pre-K – 8th graders can choose from a range of engaging online classes to create joy-filled, innovation-infused, camp-away-from-camp adventures.
What families are saying:
“My third grader loved the Majestic Castles class. We’ve taken a few different online classes offered by various camps and this was by far her favorite! She liked it so much that she kept on building after the class ended and even tried to teach her little brother how to build one too.” —Castro Valley, CA
“Galileo provided a wonderful class in which my child was able to use his imagination and artistic skills, interact with other children, and be visionary. The positive attitude of the instructor made my child feel like the sky is the limit.” —Smithtown, NY
“Our son was so excited to share what he created and that he was an INNOVATOR! He participated in the class more than I’ve ever seen him with other activities!” —Arlington Heights, IL
“I loved that this was something unique and hands-on. It was such a great way for my son to learn.” —Wilmington, DE