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17 · Wednesday, May 16, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com Choosing the right summer camp It can be difficult to envision warm summer days when the wind is blowing and the snow is falling. However, the winter months are a great time to explore summer camp options. In fact, many camps have strict enrollment timelines that require decisions to be made prior to spring. Attending summer camp has been a tradition in the United States for more than 150 years. Statistics indicate that around 30 million American kids attend summer camp each year. There are many benefits to summer camp. Camp enables children to stay engaged during the summer when there may be limited interaction with school friends. It also gives parents both a safe and viable daycare solution during the summer. Summer camp pulls together children from different neighborhoods, social classes and backgrounds, which can make it a good place to meet new people -- some of whom may become lifelong friends. Some children are very receptive to the idea of attending summer camp. Others need a little coaxing. But summer camp should never be forced on a child who does not want to go. In such instances, consider local daytime programs that may fill the void instead of programs that require being away from home. Once the decision for summer camp is made, there are some questions to answer. · What are your finances like? Do you have a budget for summer camp? · What size camp do you desire? · Should the camp be co-ed or single sex? · How far do you want your child to travel for summer camp? What are the options in your area? · Are there any camps that have been recommended by friends or family members? · What kinds of activities do your children enjoy? These types of questions will help you narrow down your options. Then you can visit and interview camps to find one that is the best fit. When visiting camps, go armed with a checklist of questions. Some of these can include: · What is the philosophy of the camp? · Can you explain a typical day? · What are the types of activities and facilities offered? · What is the camper-to-counselor ratio? · What is the camp's drug/alcohol policy? · Does the camp have insurance and security personnel? · What percentage of staff return each year? How are staff selected and trained? · What kind of health care is provided? · Can you tell me about the policy on phone calls and family visits? · What do you do in the event of emergencies? SPECIALIZING IN TEACHING KIDS MATH THE WAY IT MAKES SENSE TO THEM FREE CONSULTATION · Expert Math Tutor We only tutor math and specialize in grades 2-12. Using the time-tested, proprietary Mathnasium MethodTM, we're committed to helping your child catch up, keep up, and get ahead in math. · Custom Learning Plans & Personalized Instruction Your child will receive personalized instruction and a customized learning plan based on their unique needs and goals. The results are measurable progress and confidence in math. · Homework Help Our math tutors provide homework help that addresses gaps in knowledge and teaches proper study skills. Homework will be seen as a welcome challenge and opportunity for further learning. www.mathnasium.com/oakville GISTER NOW oakville@mathnasium.com RE FOR REGULAR 2828 Kingsway Dr., Unit 1B (905) 829-9400 & SUMMER PROGRAM & SAVE Register now! The Town of Oakville's summer camps program has expanded. From Summer Sizzlers to our dozens of specialty camps, there's something for everyone to play and learn! Plus, we now offer busing to our new location at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre as well as payment plans. Camps for 2012 include: Skill Development for all ages Skateboard and Swim ­ Ramp-O-Rama (digital scrapbooking) Dance Oakville? ...and more! Programs are for children aged 4-15. Before and after-care is available at most locations. Visit www.oakville.ca for more information or call 905-338-4250.