The Bucks Camp Expo on Jan. 20 will feature dozens of local camps
By Samantha Bambino
The Times
It’s officially that time of year. Shovels, salt and snow boots remain at the ready as meteorologists predict “one to three inches” on a weekly basis. But despite the frigid temperatures and bleak skies, it’s actually prime time to start thinking about, believe it or not, summer camp. On Jan. 20 at Delaware Valley University, nearly 40 local and overnight camps will be on hand at the free Bucks Camp Expo to help children find an experience to suit their interests … and parents stay within their budgets.
For almost 20 years, the Bucks Camp Expo’s sole purpose has been to connect families with the plethora of camp options available to them. Its ultimate goal remains the same — to get as many children as possible into a program.
“Camp is a gift,” said Ellen Warren, coordinator of the expo. “It’s as important, or more, than what they learn at school.”
According to research by the nonprofit American Camp Association, there are a number of benefits to spending a summer, even a portion of it, at camp rather than home. Vital life and communication skills are taught, kids are more active and new friendships are formed, many of which last a lifetime.
“Kids come back happy and cooperative,” Warren said.
So how does a family, especially one new to the world of summer camps, choose the right one? Warren explained how parents should take a number of things into consideration — their child’s interests, budget, location preference — because more often than not, there is a program to suit their needs.
A big concern for many families is the financial aspect. They want their child to have a fulfilling summer experience without breaking the bank. That’s why Warren encourages camp seekers to begin the process now. Most camps present at the expo will offer early registration discounts and scholarships, opportunities no longer available by mid-February.
Currently, 20 day camps and 15 overnight camps geared toward preschool through high school will exhibit at the expo. Each of the day camps are located in Bucks County, including Silver Lake Nature Center in Bristol, Spring Mill Youth Camp in Ivyland and First Children’s Academy in Southampton. The overnight camps are for kids and teens ready for an experience farther away from home in areas such as South Jersey, the Poconos and Maine.
Upon walking into the expo, each family will be personally greeted by Warren, who will get a sense of what both the parents and children are looking for. She’ll give suggestions as to which tables they should approach first, though she encourages attendees to walk the entire floor, taking in all the different programs. Many times, they’ll come in wanting one type of camp but end up discovering something new.
While most of the camps are considered “traditional” with a wide range of activities to please all children, a select few are special-interest programs. ArtMuse Summer Art Camp in Doylestown welcomes young, creative minds; Engineering for Kids in Warrington provides a collaborative space for future STEM professionals; and Future Stars Camps in Doylestown welcomes those with an athletic flair.
Camp directors and senior staff will be available from each of the camps to answer any questions and concerns. Warren said parents should come to the expo with a set of prepared questions covering all topics important to them. What does a typical camp day include? Is medical staff present? How does the camp handle special needs and dietary restrictions?
Before committing, parents and children should make sure the camp is a good fit. To help in the decision process, many day programs offer starter sessions, where a child can attend for a few days to see if they enjoy it.
As for overnight programs, Warren said families should take a tour of the space when it’s in full session. They can see firsthand if the campers look happy, if the staff is attentive and how appetizing the food looks. Even if a younger child is attending a day camp this summer, it doesn’t hurt to speak to a few overnight camp directors at the expo since that may be an option in the future.
Overall, Warren explained how summer programs are much more accommodating than when she was a young camper. Many camps offer flexible registration and happily accommodate vacations, no longer forcing families into an eight-week commitment.
“There is a camp that will meet your needs. You just have to find it,” she said. ••
If you go…
The Bucks Camp Expo will take place Saturday, Jan. 20, from noon to 3 p.m. at Delaware Valley University, 700 E. Butler Ave. in Doylestown. Admission and parking are free. For more information, visit buckscampexpo.com.
Samantha Bambino can be reached at [email protected]
