How to choose a day camp or a summer camp?

Choosing a day camp or an overnight camp is an important decision for any family. Summer is much more than a break from school—it’s an opportunity for your child to grow, build confidence, make new friends, and enjoy meaningful experiences.

In Quebec, there is a wide range of options: sports camps, arts camps, outdoor camps, general camps, specialized camps, and camps adapted for children with special needs. How do you find your way and make the right choice?

Our team has prepared this guide to help you choose the best camp for your child.

Consider your child’s interests and personality

Every child is unique. Before comparing different day camps or overnight camps, take the time to talk with your child:

• Do they enjoy sports, creative activities, or nature?
• Do they prefer coming home every evening?
• Are they ready for a first overnight experience?
• Do they need more structured supervision, or do they thrive in very dynamic environments?

A well-chosen camp fosters independence, self-confidence, and social development.

Day camp or overnight camp: which is the best option?

Day Camp

Day camp is ideal for families looking for an option that fits into their daily routine. Children enjoy stimulating activities during the day and return to the comfort of home in the evening.

Overnight Camp

An overnight camp offers a fully immersive experience. It promotes independence, the development of new friendships, and personal growth in a structured and safe environment.

The choice will depend on your child’s age, level of independence, and your family’s situation.

Check the quality and safety of the camp

Safety is a key factor when choosing a camp for your child.

Camps that are members of the Association des camps du Québec (ACQ) follow recognized standards for safety and supervision.

Before registering your child, make sure the camp offers:

• Appropriate staff-to-child ratios
• Staff trained in first aid
• Clear protocols for managing allergies and medications
• Safe and well-maintained facilities

A quality camp always puts children’s well-being at the heart of its priorities.

Choose a camp adapted to special needs

If your child has special needs, it is essential to choose the proper camp adapted to his or her needs.

Find out about:

• The support measures available
• Staff training
• The camp’s ability to adapt activities
• The supervision structure

An adapted camp allows every child to have a positive, enriching, and safe experience, while promoting inclusion and respect for differences.

Consider values and educational approach

Beyond the activities offered, the camp’s atmosphere and values play a major role. A camp that promotes respect, inclusion, sharing, and openness creates an environment where children can truly thrive.

Choosing a camp also means choosing a living environment for several weeks.

Finding the right day camp or overnight camp

If you are looking for a general day camp, a specialized camp for children with special needs, or an outdoor overnight camp, take the time to compare programs, ask questions, and visit the facilities if possible. The search tool on the Association des camps du Québec website allows you to search by region, child’s age, and camp specialties.

The right camp is one where your child feels welcomed, safe, and encouraged to be themselves.

Choosing a camp for your child means offering them much more than a vacation. It’s an opportunity to develop independence, social skills, self-confidence, and to create lasting memories.

For more information about the camps offered at Centre Notre-Dame-de-Fatima, visit the “Our Camps” section on our website: Our Camps | Totally natural