Parent’s Decision Guide
With so many camps to choose from, the decision can feel overwhelming. This guide gives you a framework to narrow down options and make a choice that fits your family and your child’s learning goals.
Step 1: Self-Assess Your Priorities (10 Minutes)
Budget & Logistics
- What’s your budget? ($800/week day camp vs. $5,000/week residential makes a difference)
- Do you need childcare supervision all day, or is half-day acceptable?
- Is commuting to campus feasible, or do you prefer overnight residential programs?
- What weeks of summer work best for your family schedule?
Child’s Learning Style & Interests
- Is your child a builder/creator first (sandbox games, 3D modeling) or a problem-solver first (puzzles, logic games)?
- Do they want to specialize (become a programmer, artist, designer) or explore broadly?
- Are they familiar with a specific platform already (Roblox, Minecraft, Unity)?
- Would they prefer a well-known platform or learn something new?
Step 2: Filter Camps (5–10 Minutes)
Use our directory search to filter by location, format (day/residential/online), age, game engine, and experience required.
Step 3: Compare Your Shortlist (20–30 Minutes)
Program Details
- What will students actually create? Specific project examples matter.
- Class size: Student-to-instructor ratio (8:1 or 15:1 makes a difference).
- Skill progression: How are different experience levels accommodated?
Instructor Credentials
- Background: Are instructors game developers, CS teachers, or professionals?
- Experience with kids: Do they have teaching experience?
Safety & Logistics
- Background checks: All instructors should have current clearance.
- Supervision: Clear adult-to-child ratios.
- Accessibility: Are accommodations available for learning differences?
Step 4: Ask Questions Before Deciding
For Your Child Specifically
- “My child has [experience level]. Will they be grouped with similar peers?”
- “How do you support different learning styles?”
- “What’s the typical pacing?”
About the Experience
- “Can you describe in detail what students will build in week one?”
- “What’s included in tuition vs. additional costs?”
- “What’s the refund policy if my child isn’t enjoying it?”
Red Flags to Watch For
- Vague curriculum descriptions
- Instructors who can’t clearly explain what kids will learn
- Large class sizes (more than 15 kids per instructor)
- No mention of how they accommodate different learning levels
- Pressure to decide immediately
- Unwillingness to discuss safety protocols
Step 5: Check References (Optional But Recommended)
Ask the camp for contact info from 2–3 parents of past campers to ask about their experience.