Article: "New York Family Camp Fairs Are A Great Place To Start"

New York Family Camp Fairs Are A Great Place To Start

Selecting the right camp for your child sets the stage for life-long memories, friends, and a summer brimming with enjoyment! Summer always seems to creep up on us fast here in NYC, so it’s time to start prepping your camp plans.

New York Family’s 2024 Camp Fairs – Free to RSVP!

Brooklyn Family Camp Fair – Saturday, 3/2, 12-3pm at Brooklyn Public Central Library

Long Island Family Camp Fair – Sunday, 3/3 Camp Fair at Cradle of Aviation

Staten Island Parent Camp & Summer Program Fair – Sunday, 4/7, 12-3pm at the College of Staten Island Sports and Recreation Center

Instead of facing these decisions alone, head over to New York Family’s Camp Fairs, where you’ll learn about all the many camp options for your kiddos. This year, there will even be promotions, games, raffles, art & crafts, face paintings, and more—all for free.

Before we dive into the Camp Fair specifics, let’s go over what to look for so you can find the best camp for your kids.

Types of camps

Sleep away camps

Considering a sleep away camp this summer? These camps are great for boosting your kid’s independence and confidence. They’ll learn how to do things on their own, returning back in August as self-sufficient campers! Sleep away camps also improve social skills, helping your little ones form friendships outside of school. While you might be nervous to send your kids away for the summer, asking the right questions at the Camp Fairs can help! Read on for a handy checklist.

Day camps

You’re probably already familiar with the classic day camp. These are great for keeping your kids entertained (and active!) during the day. If your kids are hoping to do a little bit of everything– sports, arts & crafts, games– then a general day camp may be the way to go. They often have a “choose your own adventure” structure, where kids can choose what they want to do.

Special interest camps

Does your child have a unique interest or skill they can’t stop talking about? Help your child nurture this passion through special interest camps. These might include dance, arts & crafts, STEM, sports and theater. Your kids will be surrounded by other campers who are also excited about that interest, and specialized camp directors who are experts in their fields!

Summer camp drop off sign

Camp Fair checklist for parents

Ready to attend a Camp Fair? Here are some of the questions to ask directors and counselors so you can find the perfect camp:

Can you walk me through a typical day for my child?

What time is drop off/pick up? Do you offer aftercare?

What background or experience do the camp counselors have? (Especially important for special interest camps!)

What kind of safety procedures or systems do you have in place in case of emergency?

(Especially important for sleepaway camps!)

What will my kids learn this summer?

What makes this camp special? Can you share the camp mission or values?

Does the camp offer financial aid or scholarship support?

Ready to learn more about when and where these Camp Fairs are taking place this year? Read on for the details!

New York Family’s 2024 Camp Fairs