How many weeks to send Young 4 to camp: 3 or 6?

[Anonymous]

I would like to send my son to camp this summer and am debating whether a 6 week program is too long. He will just turn 4 in the first part of June and even though he is in school, is still on the "young" side in terms of dealing with large, boisterous groups. His camp would be St. Columba's and he has the option of 3 or 6 weeks. I am home fulltime, so placing him somewhere is not so much the issue. And, I know I know my kid better than anyone, but I'm just wondering if anyone out there found that 6 weeks of camp was a bit long for the younger set. Thanks in advance for any insights.

[Anonymous]

I say 6! As a mother of kids who were young 4's last summer (and spent 8 weeks in camp), I can tell you that when August came around they were BORED with no camp. Even with plenty of activities, visits to the neighborhood pool and playdates, they were so used to being in school daily from the previous year that they wanted to be with their friends.

[Anonymous]

I think it depends on your child. Mine will be 4 this spring and we are doing 3 weeks at his preschool's summer camp. He will be fine there since he knows everyone and everything. But 6 weeks is a lot to commit to if you ask me (unless it is at his current school). I would try 3 weeks and see how it goes. Summer is supposed to be full of down time. Boredom is a good thing sometimes.

[Anonymous]

How about starting him in the 3 week session, but asking the camp director if you could extend it to 6 if your son seems to really like it? I am not sure if that is possible or what the cost would be, but it can't hurt to ask.