How to Design Summer Camps for Kids

Kids often play sports and make crafts at summer camp.

Many people think back to time spent at summer camp with fond memories. Summer camp is a time for friends to get together and share a common experience. Kids can also learn about sports, nature, crafts and each other. Starting your own summer camp for kids can be overwhelming, but with enough dedication, it can be done.

Instructions

1. Plan out the basics of your summer camp. This includes the age group of children you want to target, what activities will be involved, where the camp will be located, how many weeks at a time it will operate and whether or not it's a day camp or a resident camp. You should also decide if you want the camp to operate as a nonprofit or for-profit organization.

2. Create a business plan. Your business plan will help you get funding for the camp and should include how you plan to market your summer camp, who your competition will be in your area and how you plan to get funding. You can present your business plan to financial institutions, for example, when you apply for a loan to fund your camp. Private donations and your own personal assets are other ways initially to fund your camp.

3. Make sure your summer camp meets all the legal requirements for your state. Each state is different, and your local government office can help you understand the requirements. If you feel you may need outside help, hiring a lawyer might be a good idea. Some legal requirements to consider include permits, licenses, staff salaries, background checks, food storage and handling, sanitation laws, taxes and insurance requirements.

4. Plan out your summer camp's activities in more detail. For example, if you want to operate as a football camp, decide how many hours a day the camp attendees will be learning about football, practicing for football games and playing football games. You might also arrange for special guest speakers or players, such as a former football player, to attend the camp for a day or two. Such guests can also help you with your marketing efforts.

5. Decide at what times during the day you'll serve meals at your summer camp. Most camps serve at least breakfast, lunch and dinner, but you might also consider a late-night snack for your campers.

6. Hire your staff. You'll need staff to help supervise the children, help during activities, serve meals and clean up. The amount of staff you need will largely depend on how many kids you plan to have attending your summer camp. College students make great camp staff since they're off for the summer anyway and often looking for quality experience. The website acacamps.org features resources for safely recruiting appropriate staff memebers.

References

• American Camp Association: How to Start a Camp