10 Mistakes Parents Make When Choosing Summer Kids Camps

When school finishes for summer, every parent faces the same big question: “What shall I do with the kids?” We want them to be happy, safe, and busy. We also want them to learn something new and not spend the whole summer staring at screens. That’s where summer kids camps come in.

But here’s the tricky part: there are so many camps out there, and it’s easy to pick the wrong one. Some look amazing on paper but don’t really suit your child. Others are fine but don’t offer much beyond just filling the hours.

At Art Adventures, we run creative camps where children can paint with acrylics and watercolours, try out sculpting, and even give needle felting a go. Over the years, we’ve noticed some common mistakes parents make when choosing Summer Camps for Kids. So here’s a simple guide: 10 mistakes to avoid, and how to choose a camp your child will actually love.

1. Choosing What You Like, Not What They Like

It’s easy to sign up for the first camp that sounds good to you. But ask yourself: what does my child really enjoy? A sporty child might love football camp. A child who spends hours drawing may be happier in an art camp. When children love the activity, they’ll get the most out of camp.

2. Forgetting About Learning

Some camps are fun but don’t really teach much. That’s fine for a few days, but wouldn’t it be better if they learned something too? At Art Adventures, kids don’t just splash paint around. They learn how to use brushes properly, mix colours, and try exciting things like sculpture. That way, they come home proud of what they’ve made.

3. Picking the Closest Camp Only

We all seek ease, of course, but the closest camp isn’t necessarily the ideal one. It’s often beneficial to drive a bit out of the way for a really good experience. Distance isn’t the only factor to consider—think of the value to your child.

4. Overlooking Group Size

Large Summer Camps for Kids that draw in big crowds may be thrilling to some, but children are likely to get disappeared in a mass of people. Smaller groups could mean that children are able to receive more care and attention from the teachers. At Art Adventures, we make sure that our classes are small for this very reason.

5. Going Very General

Camps that try to do a little of everything are enjoyable but lack depth. If your child is deeply interested in something—say, art—a tailored camp will serve her much better. Instead of skimming the surface, she will have the chance to dive deep into what she truly enjoys.

6. Not Reviewing the Camp’s Approach

Every camp operates in its own fashion. Some are more competitive, while others are more laid back and imaginative. Consider what type of environment your child would benefit from. At Art Adventures, we ensure that children feel comfortable experimenting with tasks, making errors, and discovering their personal style.

7. Picking the Wrong Age Group

Some camps bunch lots of ages together, which can be tricky. Younger children might struggle, while older ones get bored. Camps should be designed for different age groups. That’s why at Art Adventures, we plan projects for little ones, more advanced work for teens, and even classes for adults.

8. Not Asking About Materials

It may not seem important, but materials matter a lot. Cheap paints and broken brushes don’t inspire children. We provide proper, high-quality supplies so kids can make something they’re really proud of. It makes a huge difference.

9. Choosing Only by Price

We all want to save money. But sometimes the cheapest camp doesn’t give the best value. Think about what your child will actually gain from the experience. A good camp should be fun, safe, and teach real skills. That’s worth investing in.

10. Thinking Short Term

Many parents see summer camps as just “something to do.” But the best camps can spark new passions. An art camp could inspire your child to keep painting at home, or even open the door to a future career. The benefits can last far longer than just a few summer weeks.

At Art Adventures, we believe every child is creative. They just need the chance to explore, play with colours, and try new things. This summer, why not give your child that chance? Summer Kids Camps could be the start of a brand-new passion—or at the very least, a summer full of joy and creativity.

Read more: 5 Myths About Acrylic Painting Classes You Should Stop Believing