Choosing the Right Camp: Accreditation
When choosing the right camp for your child, accreditation is one of the most important criteria. Understanding the accreditation process, and how to talk to camp directors and staff about their accreditation status, is the best way to ensure that your child has safe and healthy summer fun.
Accreditation standards are developed by the American Camp Association, a nationwide community of camp professionals. Standards are detailed guidelines designed to promote program excellence, and the health and safety of campers and staff.
What is Accreditation?
A camp has Accredited status when the ACA has confirmed that the camp’s policies and procedures are in compliance with over 300 health and safety standards. ACA’s Accreditation Standards focus on a variety of areas including:
- Program design and activities
- Sites, facilities, and equipment
- Food safety and service
- Vehicles and transportation
- Health and wellness
- Risk prevention and management
- Emergency Preparedness
- Staff Training and Supervision
- Maintenance
Is Your Favorite Camp Accredited?
Before you register your child for Camp, it is important to find out about their accreditation status by asking the director/staff the following questions:
- Is this camp accredited by the ACA?
- If so: what measures do you take to uphold accreditation standards?
- If not: why not? Are you planning on seeking accreditation?
Finding Accredited Camps
If you don’t have a specific Camp in mind, but want your child to go to a camp that has met ACA’s accreditation guidelines, you can search online from a selection of camps that are accredited. To view a current list, you can search the ACA camp database or call the ACA at 765-342-8456.
All Leadership Academy camps meet rigorous health, safety, and programming standards. If you have questions, visit us online, send us an email at [email protected], or call our office at 615-856-4772.
