Choosing Between a Day Camp vs Sleepaway Camp in New Hampshire

Making choices of any kind can be stressful, especially with all the options that are presented online. This also holds true when searching for summer camps. Not only do parents have an array of summer camps to choose from but each summer camp has something unique to offer. You may find yourself sifting through sports camps, gymnastics camps, performance arts camps, day camps, overnight camps, co-ed camps, and single sex camps. While the choices seem endless, one of the biggest deciding factors is if you want a day camp or a sleepaway camp.

Let’s explore some of the core differences between day camp and sleepaway camp in New Hampshire.

Is Your Child a First Time Summer Camper?

Day Camp is Great for Younger Children: If your child hasn’t had many sleepovers or been away from home for an extended period of time, a day camp might be the best option. This is a great way for your child to get adjusted to the summer camp atmosphere while having the comfort of knowing they can come home at the end of the day.

Sleepaway Camp is Perfect for Adventurous Kids: While even the shyest children grow at an overnight camp, it’s still best to start off younger kids at a day camp. Kids that have a natural sense of curiosity and aren’t afraid to meet new people tend to thrive at overnight summer camp.

Can Your Child Be Far from Home?

Day Camp is Ideal for Kids Who Want to Be Close to Home: Kids who want to spend some time at home after camp or see their friends from school should opt for day camp. Day camps are designed for kids who reside in the area.

Sleepaway Camp is for Kids Across the Globe: Many sleepaway camps in New Hampshire have campers from all around the world. This encourages kids to be more open minded and learn about different cultures. If your child is fine being miles away and rarely gets homesick, sleepaway camp is the way to go.

Are You Available for Pick Up and Drop Off?

Day Camp Requires Daily Pick Up: Although you’ll be thinking of your child, you should also consider what your schedule looks like. Is your office far from the camp? Do you have to be at work prior to dropping your child off at camp? Make sure you, a friend, or a family member is able to pick up your son or daughter.

Sleepaway Camp Does Not Require Daily Pick Up: You don’t need to worry about daily drop off and pick up when it comes to sleepaway camp.

So, Which Summer Camp is Best?

There truly is no right or wrong decision. Depending on the needs of your child and what they’re looking to get out of their summer camp experience, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision of sleepaway camp vs day camp.

If you have chosen to send your child to a sleepaway camp in New Hampshire, consider Camp Cody. We’re conveniently located along the White Mountains on Lake Ossipee and we been an established summer camp since 1926. We have created programs for various age groups so they can ease their way into camp and have the best summer camp experience possible. With water activities including kayaking and canoeing, and land sports like tennis and soccer, along with a ton of others, there’s never a dull moment at Camp Cody.

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