Running a summer camp may seem like a piece of cake, but there is a lot of work that needs to be done to make a camp run like clockwork. Camps are businesses that needs proper maintenance, great marketing, and a friendly staff to make everyone feel welcome. Here are some pointers that will help you run a better summer camp that all kids want to attend!
Maintaining Your Camp
Campers want a comfortable and fun experience in a clean and interesting environment, which includes:
- Comfortable cabins
- Well-maintained restrooms
- Modern techniques and technology
- Tasty and nutritious meals
- A knowledgeable and caring staff
Summer camp is for learning and fun, so make sure you have some awesome activities planned out for the campers. Maybe run some surveys when the campers get there to see what activities they prefer, like kayaking or rock climbing.
Marketing and Social Media
If you don't have the proper social media and advertising for your camp, how will anyone know you exist? Your website is your most important marketing tool. Parents and campers see this when registering online for camp activities or when inquiring more information. Make sure your website is up to date and easy to navigate- maybe try hiring a professional web designer. Post lots of pictures from past camp experiences so new campers can get a better feel for your camp. Create social channels like Twitter or Facebook and update them constantly with all upcoming news and events about your camp. Collect parents's email addresses and send out emails when camp registration is near or there a big event is coming up. Get your name out there and have others raving about you.
Hard-Working Staff
Camp counselors spend the whole summer with your campers, so you want to make sure you're hiring the right people. Make sure your staff is friendly and works great in teams, and with children of all ages. A first impression is a lasting impression and parents of campers want to have assurance their kids are in good hands. The staff should be properly trained, especially when it comes to first aid. Safety is vital when it comes to running a camp and this is why it is so important to hire the right people.
If you have an awesome staff, great marketing tactics, and a well maintained camp, then - no question- your cabins will never be empty!