Hello, Brains & Motion parents!
Kirsten here, Director of Talent Acquisition & Customer Service at Brains & Motion.
Each year around this time, my inbox fills up with thoughtful, practical, and sometimes very unique questions from parents who are planning ahead for summer.
Honestly, I love it! My team and I know that choosing the right camp is a big decision, and you deserve clear, honest answers (not guesswork).
So today, I’m sharing a handful of the questions I hear most often, along with the guidance I give families every day. If any of these have been on your mind, you’re definitely not alone!
1. How do I know if my child is ready for camp?
Readiness isn’t about age. It’s about comfort, curiosity, and growing independence. Most kids are ready when they can follow basic instructions, participate in group activities, and spend several hours away from you without distress.
That said, many children feel a mix of excitement and nerves, and that’s completely normal. Even outgoing kids can feel unsure walking into a new environment.
A few signs your child is ready:
- They enjoy trying new activities (even if cautiously)
- They can ask adults for help when needed
- They’re able to manage simple self-care tasks (bathroom breaks, snack time, keeping track of belongings)
Planning tip: Start to practice independence at home by having your child pack their own backpack, follow a simple written schedule, or attend a playdate without you nearby. These small steps can make activities like camp feel much easier!
2. How early should I register?
Earlier than most families expect. Many camps open registration in winter, and the most popular weeks, themes, and locations fill up first.
Registering early doesn’t just secure a spot: it gives you time to plan your full summer with less stress. Families who wait until late spring often have fewer scheduling options or need to juggle multiple programs.
Planning tip: Even if your summer calendar isn’t final, reserve your preferred weeks now. It’s easier to adjust dates later than it is to find space once programs are full, and with BAM!, you have the flexibility to make changes should your summer plans shift.
3. How much does summer camp usually cost, and are there ways to save?
Pricing varies widely depending on region, staffing, facilities, materials, and more. Structured programs like BAM! with highly trained instructors, small group sizes, and specialized equipment naturally cost more, but they also deliver more support and higher engagement.
Many families don’t realize how many savings options exist! At BAM!, we offer:
- Automatic multi-week discounts (our special buy 3 camp weeks, get 1 free offer is still live!*)
- Promo codes (you’re already signed up for emails, so you’ll be first to know!)
- Payment plans (available at checkout)
Planning tip: Your workplace may also offer employer dependent-care benefits or FSA funds. Ask your company’s HR representative for more info!
4. What’s the difference between BAM! camps held at university campuses vs. local schools?
Families ask this all the time, and both environments are wonderful in their own ways.
Our university locations often offer:
- Camp courses that zero in on a STEAM topic like coding, robotics, engineering, or design
- Larger, specialized spaces (labs, outdoor spaces, athletic facilities)
- Exposure to a collegiate setting that feels exciting and inspiring
Our school-based locations offer:
- A familiar neighborhood setting (great for younger or first-time campers)
- Camps that expertly blend STEM adventures, artistic exploration, themed weeks, and joyful outdoor movement
- A shorter commute and simplified drop-off/pick-up routines
There isn’t a “better” option—just different experiences.
Planning tip: If your child is nervous about new environments, a familiar school campus can feel comforting. If they love exploration and are already dreaming big for the future, a university setting can feel like an adventure!
5. What about safety, medical care, and allergies?
This is one of the most important questions parents ask.
Well-run camps like ours have clear systems for:
- Medication storage and administration
- Allergy awareness and food safety
- Emergency response procedures
- Staff training in health protocols
You should also be able to share detailed health information during registration, including medications, dietary needs, and behavioral support.
Planning tip: Don’t wait until the first day to mention medical needs. Early communication helps our staff prepare thoroughly and confidently support your child.
6. What if my child gets homesick or doesn’t make friends right away?
This is incredibly common, especially in the first few days. New environment, new faces, new routines… that’s a lot of change at once!
Most kids settle in once they:
- Learn their daily rhythm
- Start to recognize familiar faces of instructors and peers
- Experience early success in projects and activities
Our instructors are trained to foster social connection through group games, collaborative projects, and structured icebreakers that help friendships form naturally.
Planning tip: Keep drop-offs calm and confident. Long, emotional goodbyes can actually increase anxiety. A cheerful, predictable routine often works best!
7. How many weeks of camp should my child attend?
There’s no universal rule, but here’s something we consistently see: the second week often looks very different from the first.
During week one, kids are learning routines and meeting people. By week two, they’re much more comfortable, which means more participation, deeper friendships, and greater confidence.
Families often choose a mix of:
- Consecutive weeks for continuity
- Different themes across the summer
- Camp time balanced with family time and downtime
Planning tip: If your child is new to camp, consider at least two weeks (not necessarily back-to-back). The adjustment period is real, and growth builds quickly after that.
8. What should we do now to prepare for a smooth summer?
A little preparation makes everything easier, especially the first day of camp!
My personal checklist for families:
✔ Register early to secure your preferred weeks
✔ Review the daily schedule together so there are no surprises
✔ Practice independence skills (opening lunch containers, organizing belongings, asking adults for help)
✔ Complete health forms well in advance
✔ Label everything (ie. water bottles, jackets, backpacks, hats, etc.)
✔ Talk about what to do if your child feels unsure or need support
And one more thing: focus on excitement, not pressure! Camp is about exploration, growth, and fun—not perfection.
If you made it this far, thank you for letting me be part of your summer planning. Supporting families through these decisions is one of the very best parts of my job.
If you still have questions—big or small—reach out to us at EMAIL. My team and I are always happy to help you think things through. We can’t wait to make Summer ’26 unforgettable for your child!
*When you purchase three camp weeks in a single transaction through our website, you’ll receive one additional camp week free. The discount will apply automatically at checkout with no promo code needed, and the lowest-priced week will be designated as the free week. This offer can not be combined with other discounts or promotions. All four weeks must be selected during the same transaction. The free week is not transferable to another customer. If any part of the qualifying purchase is canceled or refunded, the promotion will no longer apply and your charges may be adjusted to reflect standard pricing. This offer is subject to availability and may change or end at any time. By participating, you agree to these terms and conditions.
