Camp James is ACA Accreditation
Why an ACA-Accredited Camp?
Fun And Safety — ACA Camps Set the Standard
ACA Accreditation means that the camp you are considering for your child cares enough to undergo a thorough (up to 290 standards) review of its operation — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management. American Camp Association® collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies to assure that current practices at the camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. Camps and ACA form a partnership that promotes summers of growth and fun in an environment committed to safety.
ACA helps accredited camps provide:
Healthy, developmentally appropriate activities and learning experiences
Discovery through experiential education
Caring, competent role models
Service to the community and the environment
Opportunities for leadership and personal growth
What’s the difference between state licensing of camps and accreditation by ACA?
How do ACA standards exceed state licensing requirements?
ACA goes beyond basic requirements for health, cleanliness, and food service into specific areas of programming, including camp staff from director through counselors, emergency management plans, health care, and management. ACA applies separate standards for activities such as waterfront, horseback riding, and adventure and travel.
What are some of the ACA standards that camps rely on?
- Staff to camper ratios are appropriate for different age groups
- Goals for camp activities are developmentally based
- Emergency transportation available at all times
- First-aid facilities and trained staff available when campers are present
How can I verify that my child’s camp is ACA accredited?
Parents can (and should) verify the accreditation status of any camp at any time by visiting ACA’s Web site at www.ACAcamps.org or by calling 1-800-428-CAMP.
If your child’s camp isn’t ACA accredited, ask WHY NOT?
Keep in Mind — Informed parents are best prepared to select a camp that meets their standards for staff, programs, safety, and facilities and strives to promote the welfare of every child.