Choosing a holiday camp starts with two questions: will your child enjoy their time there, and will the arrangements work for your family?
A convenient location matters, but so do the activities, the people looking after your child and the support available when they need it. Before booking, it helps to look beyond the photos and find out how the camp works in practice.
These five questions can help you compare your options before booking.
1. How will my child be supervised and kept safe?
A provider should be able to explain how they look after children throughout the day, from arrival through to collection.
Useful questions to ask include:
- What safeguarding training do staff receive?
- How many staff supervise each group, and how are children grouped?
- What first aid arrangements are in place?
- How are children signed in and out?
- What happens when someone else collects my child?
- How will I be contacted if my child becomes unwell or needs support?
Where applicable, check the Ofsted registration details for the venue your child will attend. Registration is one part of your decision, alongside the provider’s staffing, supervision and day-to-day procedures.
If you have a question, ask before booking. Clear answers can help you understand what to expect.
You can read more about our arrangements in Camp safety: what parents really need to know.
2. Will my child enjoy the activities?
Look at the activities with your child and see what interests them.
Some children enjoy a day centred on sport and movement. Others prefer creative activities, or a mixture of different experiences. Talk through the timetable together, including anything they would like to try.
Before booking, ask:
- Which activities are included in the booking?
- Are they suitable for my child’s age and experience?
- How are activities adapted for different abilities?
- What happens if my child finds an activity difficult or feels unsure about joining in?
Your child does not need to be familiar with every activity. A camp can be an opportunity to try something new, with encouragement and support.
At Aspire Active Camps, sport and physical activity are at the heart of the day. If you are wondering whether that would suit your child, read Can my child enjoy Aspire Active Camps if they’re not sporty?.
3. What happens when the weather changes?
Before booking, check how the provider handles wet weather, hot days and changes to outdoor plans.
Ask what indoor space is available and how the timetable changes when an activity cannot go ahead as planned.
Check the provider’s packing list, including whether your child needs a waterproof coat, spare clothes or anything else for the weather.
4. Does the camp work with our routine and budget?
Check the practical details for the specific venue and dates you need. Opening hours, age limits and booking options can vary.
Before paying, confirm:
- Drop-off and collection times, including any extended hours
- Whether you can book individual days
- The ages accepted and any limits on session length
- The total price and any additional charges
- What your child needs to bring, including lunch and snacks
- Cancellation and booking amendment terms
- Whether childcare vouchers or Tax-Free Childcare are accepted, and whether you are eligible to use them
Think about the journey too. A venue may be close to home but less convenient for your route to work or the person collecting your child.
If you plan to use a childcare payment scheme, check how to send payment and when your booking will be confirmed. Our childcare vouchers and payments guide explains what to check when booking Aspire Active Camps.
5. How will my child be helped to settle in?
Children respond differently to a new setting. Some join in quickly; others need time to get to know the staff, activities and other children.
Ask how the team welcomes children attending for the first time and what support is available if your child feels nervous or does not know anyone.
If your child has a medical condition, allergy or additional need, discuss this with the provider before booking. Ask how the team would support your child and whether they can meet their needs.
You can also help your child prepare by talking through the day and packing their belongings together. Our guide to preparing for a first camp experience has more practical advice.
Find a holiday camp that suits your family
Use these questions to narrow down your options, then contact the provider about anything you’re unsure of.
If your child would enjoy active school holiday days, explore our venues and programmes to see what is available.
Find your nearest Aspire Active Camp