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Not all summer camps are the same, which is good because not all kids are the same. But that could make selecting the right camp for your child a little more complicated. But don't let that deter you. Camp is going to be a great experience for you and your child. John DeGarmo, Ed.D., a parenting expert and director of The Foster Care Institute, is a big believer in the value of summer camp for children and says it exposes youngsters to experiences they wouldn't learn in school or have the chance to do at home. "Being away from home and family members also gives children the chance to learn a lot of self-responsibility and gain independence," says DeGarmo. According to the American Camp Association, there are camps to meet every interest, price range and schedule. At specialty camps and programs, campers can embark on all sorts of adventures and learn how to ride a horse, water ski or dance. Most resident, or "sleepaway," camps offer a variety of programs for children. This is a good choice starting at around 7 years old. Options include coed, single gender and specialty camps. Similar to resident camps, day camps provide a skill-development experience for younger campers (often beginning at age 4), but with everyone returning home at the end of the day. ending kids off to summer camp is an age-old tradition in the U.S. Children leave home for a week or two for a chance to explore, learn and experience new things. But selecting the right camp can be intimidating for a parent who is charged with making the final decision. Where do you begin? 18 | | Summer 2017