Your high schooler may be in the midst of preparing for the next big step in his life, so enrolling him in a college prep camp would be a wise idea. Academic camps such as college prep camps can groom your child in various areas of preparing for university. Campers can learn valuable tips on how to write an effective essay, how to manage and fill out the many forms and applications, and what questions to ask of each college they consider. Camps may cover areas like study strategies, reading and writing assistance, creative thinking, problem solving skills, note taking, memorization and communication. While these all help prepare a high schooler for college, there are fun recreational opportunities as well.

Weather Considerations: Although some college prep camps take place on actual college campuses, many are located in typical camp settings in the woods or near water, offering sports, recreation and even outdoor adventure courses. Pack appropriate clothing and comfortable sneakers for your child, depending on location and season.

KidsCamps Tip: Be sure to fully research and select a college prep camp specific to your child's interests and abilities. Many camps have a specific focus, such as creative writing or math mastery.

Counselor Certifications: Counselors should be skilled in the academic area they are teaching. This means they should have teaching certificates and diplomas, and may even have a master's degree in their area of expertise.