Summer break is fast approaching and many of children will spend time at a camp.
But the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning wants parents to take extra care when choosing a camp.
Bright from the Start Georgia is urging consumers to be smart when looking for summer camps.
Parents can verify their camps by visiting www.qualityrated.org to see if it is either licensed or exempt from licensing. If parents prefer, they can speak with a summer camp referral specialist by calling 1-877-ALL-GA-KIDS (877-255-4254) Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. with early hours beginning at 7 a.m. on Monday/Wednesday and extended hours until 9 p.m. on Tuesday/Thursday
Experts recommend you to start looking early. You may qualify for scholarships, sliding scale fees or discounts for registering multiple children. Be sure to find something that fits your budget, ask about safety and read reviews of the program.
Here’s your checklist:
- Is the camp licensed or accredited? Ask to see it.
- Background checks: have the owner-operator and staff all been screened?
- How much training, education and experience does staff have?
- Does everyone have CPR and first aid training?
- Can parents drop in at any time to see their child?
