When parents start searching for summer camps, they often focus on the basics:
✔️ Location – Is it close enough for a manageable commute?
✔️ Price – Does it fit within the family’s budget?
✔️ Availability – Are the dates a match, and is the program still open, or has it already sold out?
✔️ Specialty – Does it offer sports, STEM, art, or traditional camp activities?
All of these are important factors, but what happens when the camp checks every box on paper, yet your child’s experience is just… okay? Not bad, but not great either. Something feels like it’s missing.
That “something” often comes down to the camp’s mission and values—and whether they’re truly at the heart of how the camp operates.
A camp’s mission should be more than just words on a website. It should guide everything—from how counselors interact with campers to how the program is designed.
How do you know a camp truly lives by its mission? Here’s what to look for:
A great camp doesn’t just teach skills; it helps kids develop resilience, focus, integrity, perseverance, and gratitude. These qualities don’t just happen by accident. They should be intentionally woven into the programming, whether campers are learning to sew their first project, mastering a robotics challenge, or tackling a new outdoor skill.
Example: A camper struggling to complete a project isn’t just left to figure it out alone or rushed to finish. Instead, counselors guide them through problem-solving strategies, encouraging perseverance and creativity—valuable skills that last beyond camp.
At many camps, counselors are just seasonal hires who supervise activities. The best camps train their staff not just in safety and logistics but in how to inspire kids, how to create inclusive environments, and how to model values every day.
Example: When a camper feels nervous about trying something new, a well-trained counselor doesn’t just say, “Give it a try!” They validate their feelings, help them build confidence, and support them through the challenge.
Some camps follow a rigid schedule where kids move from activity to activity with little choice. Others foster curiosity, independence, and decision-making by letting campers explore different programs and dive deeper into what excites them.
Example: Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, a strong program gives kids the freedom to choose activities that match their interests, ensuring a more engaging and fulfilling experience.
Friendships and social learning are a huge part of camp. But what happens when campers have a disagreement or struggle to connect? The best camps focus on teaching empathy and collaboration, not just managing behavior.
Example: If a camper is feeling left out, trained staff don’t just redirect them to another activity. They facilitate conversations, teach communication skills, and help kids navigate friendships in a supportive way.
Yes, summer camp should be fun. But the best camps also challenge kids to grow in confidence, creativity, and independence.
Every adventure—whether it’s building something with their own hands, solving a problem as a team, or stepping out of their comfort zone—should be designed to create real, lasting growth
When evaluating camps, don’t stop at logistics. Ask about the camp’s mission, values, and how they bring them to life. Look for a camp that will not only entertain your child but also inspire them, challenge them, and help them grow.
At DEAN Adventure Camps, we’re dedicated to helping children discover their passions, explore endless possibilities, achieve meaningful goals, and navigate thrilling adventures. Our programs are organized into 10 different studios that balance skill-building, character development, and unforgettable fun, with friendship and personal growth at the heart of every experience. Guided by our experienced and caring counselors, we nurture great qualities like resilience, focus, integrity, perseverance, and gratitude, empowering your child to make wise choices, try new things, and thrive—all while having the time of their lives.
Learn more about our programs and secure your child’s spot today at DEANAdventureCamps.com. Connect with us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for the latest updates and sneak peeks into the fun!