Jump Start Your Planning for Summer Camps and Child Care
Is it really time to begin planning for your summer camp and child care needs? Short answer: YES!
The demand for summer child care can be a big surprise for parents with three- and four-year-old children who have transitioned from a year-round child care provider to a Pre-K program that follows the traditional school year calendar and now needs care until school begins again in August. While some parents may have already woven summer child care seamlessly into their year-round plan, fear not – it's not too late to ensure a fantastic and safe summer experience for your little ones.
Starting your child care and camp planning NOW can save you time, money, and stress later.
However, before starting a search, take a few moments to think about what's essential to you in finding the perfect summer child care or camp for your child. Here's a helpful checklist to guide you:
Your Summer Planning Checklist
Discover Your Child's Interests: Talk with your child about what they like most about their current child care or early learning program and what new interests or activities your child enjoys. From sports and music to art and nature, there's a variety of summer camp themes to choose from.
Set a Weekly Budget: Determine your weekly budget for summer care and camps, ensuring it aligns with your household budget. If you need assistance with tuition, ask upfront if the program offers scholarships, has tiered pricing, or accepts the Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS) program subsidies.
Consider Location: Decide how far you're willing to drive for daily drop-offs and pick-ups. Is the location near public transportation, or do you need assistance with transportation? Convenience is key to making your daily routine more manageable.
Establish Daily Hours: Clearly outline the hours you need your child in camp every day to seamlessly fit into your schedule. Does the program offer early drop-off or late pick-up? If so, is there an additional fee?
Meal Preferences: Decide if you prefer meals and snacks are provided by the camp or if you'll be sending your own. If your child has special dietary needs, does the camp have a process to ensure their needs are met?
Additional Considerations: Think about other factors important to you, such as the camp's reputation, safety measures, and overall quality of child care.
With a high-quality summer child care and camp offering, your child will benefit from more support as they develop socially and emotionally, physically, and cognitively over the summer months. Plus, parents benefit as well. Summer programs can help your child stay on a routine and give you a break, allowing time to recharge, work, or attend to other needs.
Let 1-877-ALL-GA-KIDS Help in Your Planning
The best part about planning for your child’s summer camp or child care needs is that you do not have to do it alone! For expert advice and personalized assistance, connect with our Child Care Referral Specialists by dialing 1-877-ALL-GA-KIDS (877-255-4254) to be guided in finding the perfect summer care solution. You now have the option to chat with the specialists via live chat at QCCga.org too!
For families who need financial assistance for child care and summer programs, Quality Care for Children is now a Georgia Gateway partner and can assist families in applying for CAPS and other subsidies through the 1-877-ALL-GA-KIDS call center.
The 1-877-ALL-GA-KIDS call center, made possible by the Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL), offers families free and confidential information using the Quality Rated search tool. If you prefer to conduct your search, visit QualityRated.org to get started.
