Some Miami summer camps are worth every penny. Others leave kids bored, unsupervised, or worse. The difference comes down to what you ask before you sign up. Don’t assume every camp is safe or well-run. Find out for yourself.

Forget glossy brochures and vague promises. You need real answers about who’s watching your child, what they’ll be doing, and how the camp handles the unexpected. Every question you ask now saves you headaches later. Don’t settle for “trust us.” Demand details. The best camps are ready to give them.

Safety and Supervision Policies

Safety isn’t a given just because a camp has a website or a long history. Miami camps follow different standards, and not all of them are strict. You need to know exactly how kids are supervised, who’s trained for emergencies, and what happens when things go sideways. Camps that hesitate or dodge these questions aren’t worth your trust.

• Are all staff background checked and fingerprinted?
• Who’s certified in CPR and first aid, and are they on site at all times?
• What’s the emergency plan if a child is injured or goes missing?
• How are allergies and medications managed?
• Is a nurse or medical professional present during camp hours?
• What are the rules and supervision for swimming activities?

Field trips add another layer. Ask how transportation is handled and who’s in charge off campus. For outdoor activities, find out what happens when the weather turns. Good camps have clear, written protocols and staff who know them cold. Anything less is a risk you don’t need.

Daily Camp Schedule

Kids need structure. A camp that can’t show you a real schedule is waving a red flag. Some programs fill the day with activities, others leave kids to wander. Too much downtime leads to boredom and trouble. The best camps balance movement, creativity, and rest, so kids stay engaged and happy.

• What does a typical day look like, start to finish?
• How much time is spent on physical activity, creative projects, and quiet breaks?
• Are activities age-appropriate and varied?
• How are transitions and downtime managed?
• Do kids get choices, or is everything set in stone?
• How are meals and snacks handled?

Ask for a sample schedule. If the camp offers dance, chess, or STEAM electives, find out how often those happen and if they cost extra. A real schedule shows you where your money goes and what your child will actually experience.

Staff Training and Experience

Facilities don’t run camps. People do. The staff make or break your child’s summer. You want adults who know what they’re doing, not just teenagers filling time. Ask about hiring standards, training, and how long staff stick around. High turnover or a team of first-timers is a warning sign.

• What qualifications do counselors and staff have?
• How long have most staff worked at the camp?
• What training happens before camp starts?
• Is there ongoing support and supervision for counselors?
• How are conflicts or behavioral issues handled?

Specialty programs like fitness or music activities need instructors with real experience. Ask for specifics. A strong camp director sets the tone. Find out who’s in charge and how involved they are. Camps that invest in staff training deliver better summers, period.

Camper-to-Counselor Ratios

Numbers matter. Low ratios mean your child gets attention and stays safe. High ratios mean chaos and missed problems. Camps should know their numbers for every age group and every activity. Younger kids need more eyes on them. Older kids still need supervision, just a different style.

• What’s the camper-to-counselor ratio for each age group group?
• Does that ratio hold during field trips and off-site events?
• How do you handle staff absences or unexpected high attendance?
• Are there extra support staff or floaters?

If age groups mix, ask how that’s managed. If they’re separated, find out how transitions work. Camps that care about safety have clear, honest answers. Vague or defensive responses are a red flag.

Program Variety

Kids burn out fast when every day looks the same. Camps need to mix things up: physical play, creative projects, and new experiences. Look for programs that offer real variety, not just a list of buzzwords. Whether it’s arts and crafts, video gaming, or presentations and pizza parties, the goal is to keep kids interested and challenged.

Ask what’s included in the base price and what costs extra. Some camps nickel-and-dime for every activity. Others bundle it all in. Find out if kids can try new things or if they’re locked into one track. Flexibility matters. Kids’ interests change, and a good camp adapts.

Refund and Cancellation Policies

Life changes. Kids get sick, plans shift, and sometimes you need to cancel. Before you pay, know exactly what happens if you need to back out or switch weeks. Some camps refund up to a certain date. Others keep your money no matter what. Don’t get caught off guard.

• What’s the refund policy if we cancel before camp starts?
• Can we switch weeks or transfer to another session?
• What if the camp cancels or closes unexpectedly?
• Are there fees for changes after registration?
• Do you offer prorated refunds if a child leaves mid-session?

Read the fine print. If the policy is confusing or feels unfair, get clarification in writing. Check the pricing structure and make sure you know what you’re paying for. Camps that stand behind their program don’t hide behind tricky terms.

Get Answers Before You Commit

Choosing a summer camp in Miami isn’t about picking the closest spot or the one with the flashiest ads. It’s about finding a place that keeps your child safe, engaged, and happy. The best camps answer tough questions, show you their systems, and back up every claim with real details. At Wise Choice Summer Camp, we build quality into every part of our program: trained staff, structured schedules, and clear communication with parents.

Ready to see what a well-run camp looks like? Call 305-630-3600 or register for summer camp to secure your spot and get answers to any questions you still have.