2 years ago
WASHINGTON, DC (WUSA)- Sing-alongs, sports and s'mores...Just a few of the things the Teicher three look forward to at summer camp.
"I like arts and crafts," said 11-year-old Sarah Teicher.
"I really enjoy being with friends," said 14-year-old Ethan Teicher.
But camp costs can quickly add up. Mom Debbie pays more than $1,600 per child for just two weeks.
"That includes all their meals and all their activities," said Teicher.
The American Camp Association says while camps aren't out to break the piggy bank, some pre-summer homework can help you save.
"It's very important that parents have conversations with camp directors to make the best and the very most of the dollar they're going to spend at camp," said Peg Smith, Chief Executive Officer of the American Camp Association.
First, check into financial aid. Most camps offer "camperships."
"Camperships are like a scholarship that you might receive to go to a school or a different program," said Smith.
You can also work with your camp to set up a monthly payment plan.
Or, try early enrollment.
At the Teicher's camp, it can save hundreds.
"If you pay early you get $100 off per child," said Teicher.
And when you're packing, stick to the list.
"This is an opportunity for your children to unplug from technology. Camp directors will give you the most necessary packing list," said Smith.
In their fourth year at camp, the Teichers have saved money by saving leftovers.
"Flashlights, the containers they use to transport their soaps and shampoos, towels for camp, sheets for camp, the mattress pad," said Teicher.
No matter how you pad your pocket, in the end, it's all about the experience.
"It's hard to put a price on your child's opportunity to learn and grow," said Smith.
"They get to really find out new things about themselves," said Teicher.
Another way to save? Stick to a summer camp close to home. It will help you save on gas, and you won't need to book a flight or train ticket.
MORE WAYS TO TAME SUMMER CAMP COSTS: ADD A CHILD: Smith says that many camps will offer up discounts if you send more than one child per session.
KNOW THE REFUND POLICY: Camp plans don't always work out. Know a camp's refund policy and keep the info handy. Smith says some parents forget to ask before they sign a child up for the summer.
CREATE A CANTEEN FUND: Yes, you will need to put money into the fund. However, don't go overboard. Keep a reasonable amount of money in the fund. A camp director should be able to help you with how much to put in the fund to begin with.
Another plus? It allows your child to understand what a budget is and how to manage a budget while he or she is at camp. It also allows your child to get that occassional treat away from home!
ASK OTHERS TO CONTRIBUTE: Some camps offer gift certificates. For a birthday present, the Teicher family asks grandma and grandpa to put money into canteen funds. Every penny helps!
TALK TO OTHER PARENTS: They will know what is on the packing list that your child may not need...as well as the one important thing that isn't on the packing list. For example, Debbie Teicher discovered that many of the boys in her son's bunk bring folding chairs to lounge around in.
