Summer camps create a safe place for children to enjoy nature.
Summer camps let children develop and grow in a different environment then they are use to. Children develop new friendships, learn new ideas and grow as individuals as they experience summer camp life. Developing a summer camp for children is a way you can create a place for children to experience the outdoors in an environment they may not have access to during the rest of the year. As a camp owner, you must ensure that your summer camp is safe for children and follows state, local and federal rules and regulations.
Instructions
1. Create a plan for the type of camp you would like to start. Determine what age range your camp will serve, what style of activities you will offer and what features your camp will have. Plan out if you want to specialize your camp by gearing it toward children who have special needs or are ill. Determine the amount of handicapped-accessible equipment you will need and whether you will need specially trained camp assistants to work with the children.
2. Research funding for your camp. Government aid and business grants may be available, depending on the type of camp you decide to run. Apply for business loans to start up your camp, and decide how much you will charge each camper who attends.
3. Locate a piece of land for your camp. The land should have plenty of access to outdoor activities and room to place the buildings your camp will include. Check the land's zoning to make sure the local government agrees that you can use the land for a children's camp. Your real estate agent and the local jurisdiction's clerk's office can assist you with any land zoning issues.
4. Purchase business insurance when you have found a site for your summer camp. You will need a variety of insurance coverages, including vehicle insurance, liability, worker’s compensation and business insurance. Purchase as much coverage as you can because extra coverage will help cover costs incurred by unexpected injuries or accidents at the camp.
5. Hire contractors to build or repair camp buildings. The buildings must meet or exceed state structural codes and regulations. Request that a state inspector from the state you live in inspect the buildings to ensure that they are up to code. You should also request that fire safety and the food safety inspectors certify your camp has completely compliant with codes for fire safety and for food service.
6. Work within the American Camp Association regulations, and make sure your camp complies with all of them. The American Camp Association has strict rules and high standards. Research the rules, and inspect your camp thoroughly to ensure you are following all guidelines.
7. Contact federal, state, and local government offices to apply for any business licenses you will need and make sure your camp is in compliance with government regulations. Obtain licenses for serving food, transporting campers and a variety of other camp activities. Register your business name with your state's Secretary of State website.
8. Hire staff and train them before the camp opens to campers. The right staff helps your campers expand their horizons and develop while they attend the camp. The staff must understand their job descriptions, enjoy working with children and undergo criminal background checks before they are allowed to participate in activities with the children. If your camp specializes in children with special needs or illnesses, your staff should have training surrounding the children’s needs, and a registered nurse should be hired to oversee any medications the children might require. Staff members should be certified or willing to become certified in first aid and CPR.
9. Advertise your summer camp locally and nationally through newspapers, online and via television and radio. Contact local schools and give your camp information to the guidance counselors. If your camp specializes in children with special needs or illnesses, contact the state’s Health and Human Services office and send them information about your camp. Parents often turn to these sources to find camps for their children to attend.
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