Choosing the right soccer camp for your child involves some important research. Because the summer soccer camp experience will have significant impact on your child’s game and their general attitude, it’s important that as a soccer parent to learn to choose a camp wisely.

Parents often make the mistake of sending their children to soccer camps without doing their research first. Researching a camp should always be done first and parents should always consider what their child wants, how their child can benefit, the type and location of the camp, the staffs’ qualifications and how well the staff work with children.

One of the most important things to consider when choosing a [tag-tec]soccer camp[/tag-tec] is considering what your child wants. Sit down with your child and narrow your camp choices down to the most promising [tag-tec]soccer camps[/tag-tec]. Review their brochures and videos with your child and then arrange meetings with representatives from the camps that you and your child are most interested in.

Parents should consider all the different types of soccer camps before making a final decision. The first types of soccer camp are day camps and these are very popular. If your child wants more instruction then you might consider a residential camp. Residential camps offer overnight accommodation. Residential camps generally offer more hours of instruction and provide room and meals as part of the camp program. A community camp is best for parents trying to keep their children closer to home. Your local soccer club or athletic community usually sponsors community camps. They provide 15-20 hours of soccer instruction and cost less than day camps or residential camps. There are also position specific camps and these are very specialized camps. Position camps offer instruction in a specific position; an example would be a goalkeeper camp. These camps operate as day, residential, and community camps. The last types of camps are Elite or Advanced camps. These camps are usually reserved for older or the more advanced soccer players, offering instruction in advanced technical and tactical topics throughout the enrollment in the soccer camp. These camps are often residential.

Day camps can be ideal for many soccer players and parents because of the number of hours available for instruction and many [tag-tec]soccer camps[/tag-tec] are located within surrounding communities. Residential camps might not be the right choice for younger soccer players, because younger children don’t have the experience of sleeping away from home.

Many camps offer a “Camp Director” or may have more than one. It is important that as a [tag-tec]soccer parent[/tag-tec] you direct any questions you may have to the soccer Camp Director. Don’t be afraid to ask as it is better to address any concerns that you may have before you enroll your child, instead of worrying about it when they are already there. Soccer camps are a great way for kids to learn more about the game as well as mix with other kids of a similar age and enjoy new friendships.