Picture this: your child has a five-day break. They spend their days socializing with peers, learning new skills, spending their energy constructively, and coming home in the evening all excited to tell you about the fun adventures they had. That’s what you can expect when you send your kids to March break camps.
March Break is an amazing opportunity for kids to take a break from school and try fun, exciting new activities. Camps are the perfect atmosphere for fun, excitement, and learning. In this guide, we will delve deeper into what these camps are like, what kinds are available, and why you should consider sending your kids to one.
What is a March Break Camp?
As the name suggests, these camps run over the March break camp, which is from the 11th to the 15th of March this year. These camps provide a constructive way for children to use the time they have away from school.
Camps typically focus on one major activity during the day, such as taekwondo, playing a musical instrument, or cooking. Children spend the rest of the time indulging in physical activities, playing supervised games, and snacking. All in all, camps aim to make each day fun and engaging.
You can categorize spring camps into two basic types:
- Day camps
- Overnight camps
Day camps typically start in the morning and end in the evening, often following usual school hours. With overnight camps, parents drop their child off on the first day and pick them up a few days later, once the camp finishes.
Why Should You Send Your Child to a March Break Camp in Oakville?
From teamwork to social skills, there are a lot of benefits of spring camps. Depending on the type of camp, your child will likely gain confidence, learn new skills, and make new friends! Here are a few more reasons to send your child to a camp during the March break:
- Try New Things: This time gives your child five uninterrupted days to indulge in a new activity. It’s a great opportunity to learn new skills and hone existing ones.
- Get Exercise: Children participate in lots of activities, ensuring they get the daily physical exercise they need to stay active and get stronger.
- Be Stimulated: Learning or brushing up on skills stimulates the mind, building your child’s ability to focus and stay mentally engaged.
- Stay Social: Your child will get to spend time mingling with other children who are close in age. Plus, these camps are the perfect chance to make new friends that are different from their usual school groups.
- Play Games: Camps often build a lot of fun activities into their schedule. These can include Nerf games, bowling, laser quest, movie time, and more!
- Keep a Routine: March break camps retain a sense of routine during the five days. That means your child won’t become disoriented while transitioning from school to time off and back to school again.
- Preserve Your Schedule: Camps preserve parents’ schedules too. Day camps typically align with school pick-up and drop-off times, meaning your kids’ time off won’t impact your workday.
What Are the Benefits of March Break Camp in Oakville for Parents?
- Dependable Childcare Solution
- Peace of Mind
- Time for Work and Self-Care
- Flexibility
- Reduced Parental Pressure
- Enhanced Family Balance
- Specialized Programs
How to Choose the Right March Break Camp in Oakville?
- Understand Your Child’s Interests: Match the camp’s focus with your child’s passions, whether music, Taekwondo, or outdoor adventures.
- Research Thoroughly: Look for reviews, testimonials, and recommendations from other parents. A strong online presence often reflects a camp’s professionalism and dedication.
- Visit the Camp (If Possible): Touring the academies provides firsthand insight into the environment, cleanliness, and staff interaction with children.
- Evaluate Safety Measures: Confirm the camp’s emergency protocols, staff certifications (e.g., first aid and CPR), and camper-to-staff ratios. A lower ratio ensures more personalized attention.
- Compare Costs and Value: Analyze whether the camp’s fees align with the quality of its offerings, duration, and inclusivity of materials or meals.
- Check Program Diversity: Look for camps that offer a variety of activities to keep children engaged and allow them to try new things.
- Ask About Daily Schedules: A well-structured schedule that balances play, learning, and rest is crucial for a positive experience.
- Inquire About Inclusivity: Ensure the camp accommodates children with diverse needs, including dietary restrictions, allergies, or special requirements.
- Assess Drop-Off and Pick-Up Logistics: Choose a camp with convenient timings and locations to avoid logistical challenges during busy mornings or evenings.
Questions to Ask Before Enrolling Your Child
- What is the camp’s philosophy or mission?
- What qualifications or training do staff members have?
- What is the camper-to-staff ratio?
- Are meals or snacks provided, and what’s on the menu?
- How are behavioral challenges or emergencies handled?
- What is the policy for refunds or cancellations?
- Are there specific clothing or gear requirements?
- Can parents communicate with staff during camp hours?
- Are field trips or off-site activities included, and what are the safety measures?
How to Prepare Your Child for a March Break Camp in Oakville?
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- Comfortable Clothing: Pack weather-appropriate, easy-to-move-in outfits.
- Snacks and Lunches: Provide nutritious, allergy-safe food in labeled containers.
- Water Bottle: Hydration is essential, especially during physical activities.
- Medications: If your child needs medication, ensure the camp staff is informed and equipped to manage it.
- Label Everything: From lunch boxes to jackets, labels prevent lost items.
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- Discuss the Camp Ahead of Time: Talk about the activities they’ll enjoy and the friends they might make.
- Visit the Camp: If possible, attend an open house or tour to familiarize your child with the environment.
- Encourage Them to Share Concerns: Address any fears or anxieties they express, offering reassurance and solutions.
- Pack a Comfort Item: A small, familiar object can help ease nerves during the first few days.
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- Highlight Activities: Share details about exciting programs like arts, sports, or science experiments.
- Involve Them in Packing: Let them pick items like their favorite water bottle or backpack to feel more prepared.
- Schedule a Playdate with Fellow Campers: Connect with other enrolled families beforehand to help your child recognize familiar faces.
The Role of March Break Camps in Lifelong Development
- Fostering Social Skills
- Promoting Independence
- Encouraging Creativity
- Building Physical Fitness
- Developing Problem-Solving Abilities
- Exposure to New Interests
- Enhancing Emotional Resilience
- Creating Lifelong Memories
What Makes Our March Break Camp in Oakville So Popular?
Dragon TKD’s March break camp is a popular option for parents and children alike. Children love learning new martial arts techniques, while parents are comfortable having their children spend time with our taekwondo masters. They offer years of experience teaching children, which means they are in the best hands.
Thinking of enrolling your child? Did you know that our seasonal camps are HST-exempt, which offers parents a little financial reprieve? Click here to see spots available, or get in touch with us now. Hurry, our camp fills up before March!