Child 1 Age 5 - 6 (Female)
Program(s) focused in Traditional (multi activity)
(4.5) Overall experience
My child was always excited to attend camp and was in a wonderful mood when she was picked up, with lots to share and show. She formed some great relationships and learned new things, which meant a lot to us as parents because a camp that's fun and educational and well-organized is a very rare find. We are looking forward to next year and will likely sign up for additional weeks, as this camp is the highlight of the summer. We are also hoping to put our older child in the CIT program because all the counsellors seem like an awesome group of well-rounded kids.
(4.5) Reason for choosing the camp
We signed up our first year at the last minute because of an issue with the camp we had previously signed up for, and a friend had her child enrolled and recommended it. It was the most pleasant surprise and it was on the top of our list to re-enroll the following summer. The cost is very reasonable considering all the kids do and we felt it was well worth the price
(5) Program quality and activities
The programming is planned so effectively to tie into the weekly themes. Because we chose the themes that were of interest to our child she was engaged the entire week. Science experiments that had the kids really using their minds and getting to be creative were so fun - glitter bottles, they made their own board games, they tested gravity and had a blast doing it. The itinerary is sent out in advance and is very clearly outlined and adhered to which was much appreciated.
(5) Social dynamics and experience
Many kids from the previous year as well as many kids from the community were in attendance which really contributed to a fabulous experience for my child. She was able to attend with friends, build on existing relationships and meet some new friends which was really great. We didn't experience any issues with bullying or inclusion, the counsellors appear to work very hard to ensure all kids feel included.
(4.5) Skills and growth
Gross and fine motor skills were certainly improved, as games as well as crafts were part of the curriculum. I think the activities were open-ended enough that different skills could be honed regardless of age. Certain projects could be more or less complicated depending on the age of the camper. Social skills and problem-solving skills came into play when playing with others.
(5) Staff/Instructors/Counsellors
The staff were organized, communicative, and friendly. Everyone appeared to know where they were supposed to be and what their role was to make camp run smoothly. I don't have any specific experience with the management team because we did not experience any conflict or issues but I found the staff to be absolutely outstanding.
(5) Advice and tips
My advice to anyone considering this camp would be to move it to the top of your list of choices. With children and at least 20+ summer camps under our belt I can say with confidence this camp ranks at the very top due to organization, curriculum and overall positive vibes for the kids. It is an almost-exclusively outdoor camp which I think is wonderful but also a good bit of info to have in advance.
My son was very reluctant to attend camp as it was his first summer attending. He was visibly anxious on daily arrival but the staff at Glenoaks Camp were amazing. They encouraged him to come in, at h...
