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The 2026 Parent's Guide to Choosing the Best Summer Camp in Montreal
The search for the perfect summer camp in Montreal can feel overwhelming. With so many options, how do you sort through the noise to find a program that’s more than just a place to spend the summer—but a place for your child to grow, learn, and thrive?
As parents, we're not just looking for childcare. We're looking for a transformative experience that inspires our kids, builds their confidence, and sends them home happy, energized, and smarter than before.
As the team behind Montreal's #1 Summer Camp, we believe in empowering parents to make the best choice for their families. Here is our official 2026 checklist for finding a high-quality summer camp.
1. Ask About Safety, Staff, and Ratios
This is non-negotiable and the first question every parent should ask. A safe, nurturing environment is the foundation of any great camp.
• What to Ask: "What are your safety protocols, and what is your counsellor-to-camper ratio?"
• The Laurus Answer: A high-quality camp will be proud to share this information. For example, at Laurus, we maintain a high counsellor-to-camper ratio to ensure every child gets the individual attention they deserve. This, combined with comprehensive safety programs and a focus on creating a supportive community, builds an environment of trust where kids feel safe to be themselves and try new things.
2. Look for a Balance of Fun and Education
The old debate of "fun camp" vs. "learning camp" is a thing of the past. The best modern camps know that real learning happens when kids are engaged and having fun.
• What to Ask: "How do you prevent the 'summer slide' while still making sure my child has a real break?"
• The Laurus Answer: Look for a camp that intentionally designs its programs to blend education with excitement. The goal is to prevent "brain drain" by making learning an adventure. We build our entire philosophy on inspiring children to discover their potential through dynamic, engaging, and physically active programs. It’s not fun or education; it’s fun multiplied by education.
3. Find Activities That Build Real, Specialized Skills
Many camps offer a generic mix of activities. But a truly great camp offers your child the chance to discover a new passion or deepen an existing one, guided by specialists who are experts in their field.
• What to Ask: "What will my child actually do all day? Are the activities led by specialists?"
• The Laurus Answer: This is where a camp's unique value proposition shines. We developed our Specific Training Activities (STAs) for this very reason. Every camper gets 75 minutes of daily, focused instruction from a specialist in a field they chose—whether it's Robotics, Science, Dance, Cooking, or Multi-sport. They’re not just passing the time; they’re building real-world skills.
4. Choose a Program That Grows With Your Child
A one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work for a 4-year-old and a 14-year-old. The best Montreal youth programs are tailored to meet the specific developmental needs of each age group.
• What to Ask: "How do your programs differ for preschoolers versus pre-teens?"
• The Laurus Answer: A great camp will have distinct, age-appropriate pathways. Our Junior Program (Ages 3-4), for instance, focuses on foundational development and a nurturing first-camp experience. Our Youth Program (Ages 5-11) is all about dynamic discovery. And for older campers, our Leadership (Ages 12-14) and C.I.T. (Age 15) programs are specifically designed to build confidence, responsibility, and leadership skills.
The Final Check: Is it More Than Just a Camp?
Choosing a camp is about finding the right fit for your child's personality and your family's values. The right program will feel like a community—a place where your child builds lasting friendships and comes home with new skills and a new sense of self.
Ready to see why Laurus is consistently voted Montreal's #1 Summer Camp?
Inspiring growth, learning, and fun for children ages 3-15 through exceptional camps, tutoring, and educational programs.
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