Summer Camps

In Connecticut Summer Fun Starts with 2-1-1

Need assistance identifying and evaluating the right summer camp for your child – 2-1-1 can help! We are THE source in Connecticut providing valuable information on selecting the right summer camp as well as up-to-date information on program descriptions and openings. Last year the United Way of Connecticut’s 2-1-1 Childcare provided nearly 5,000 referrals for summer youth programs statewide.

Year-round 2-1-1 Child Care Referral Specialists provide consumer information on childcare options whether it is child care programs, nursery school, nanny agencies, play groups, Head Start and School Readiness Programs. Similarly, Connecticut residents can get help navigating the over 1,000 summer youth program options available statewide by calling 2-1-1.

Our comprehensive Connecticut summer camp database includes general recreation programs, as well as specialty camps to accommodate a wide variety of interests. Specialty camps include those focusing on arts or sports, including basketball and horseback riding, and those that can accommodate children with special health care needs. Our Specialists can also refer callers to campership programs that may assist parents in paying for the cost of summer camps.

Summer camps are not a one size fits all decision. There are many options to consider: day, overnight, and specialty. So how do you narrow down your search? Together as a family, you can consider the following:

• Your child’s interests and personality (sports, arts, drama, music, academics, etc).
  
• Your child’s needs or limitations (academics, health, social skills, etc.)
  
• The experiences your child wishes to have
  
• The amount of structure suitable for your child
  
• Whether your child is a first time or veteran camper
  
• Preference of co-ed or all girls or all boys
  
• Camp size
  
• Your budget
  
• Camp schedule
  
• Location

After you decide, a 2-1-1 Child Care Referral Specialist will provide you with customized summer camp options available. They can also provide valuable consumer information for consideration when evaluating individual programs such as:

• What are your goals, policies, and philosophy?
  
• How long has the camp been operating?
  
• What are your daily activities?
  
• What percentage of campers return? What percentage of counselors return?
  
• What is the tuition? Are there additional fees?
  
• Do you accept Care 4 Kids? (the state subsidy program for eligible families)
  
• What is the staff to camper ratio?
  
• What types of education and experience do counselors have working with children?
  
• What training has your staff received?
  
• How do you handle both minor medical needs as well as emergencies?
  
• Do you administer medication?
  
• And more…

Simply dial 2-1-1 for more information on Summer Youth Programs. You can also print a copy of our informational guide or search our Summer Camp Program database yourself. Print our map showing the number of summer youth program opportunities by town.