Sending your child to camp is exciting—but also a big decision. You want them to grow, explore, and make new friends in a space that feels safe, supportive, and well-run. That’s why we’re sharing this helpful resource from Praesidium, an organization that sets national standards for abuse prevention. They outline six key safety questions every parent should ask before choosing a camp.
Here’s what to ask—and how the Sewickley Valley YMCA measures up.
1. How are staff screened and selected?
What to listen for: Camps should conduct interviews, reference checks, and criminal background checks—not just hire based on availability.
How the Y measures up: All staff and volunteers at the Y undergo thorough screening, including criminal background checks, reference checks, and interviews focused on the youth experience and safety mindset. We only hire those who meet our high standards of professionalism and care.
2. What kind of abuse prevention training do staff receive?
What to listen for: Staff should be trained to recognize and respond to red flags, not just taught “basic rules.”
How the Y measures up: All Sewickley YMCA staff complete training on child abuse prevention, including safe boundaries, red flag behaviors, and mandated reporting procedures.
3. How are campers supervised throughout the day?
What to listen for: Look for consistent supervision policies—not vague reassurances.
How the Y measures up: Campers are always within sight and sound of staff. We follow strict ratios and provide clear staff instructions for all settings—from playgrounds to transition times—to ensure kids are never unsupervised.
4. What safeguards are in place to prevent one-on-one situations?
What to listen for: Camps should have policies that prevent private, unsupervised interactions between adults and children.
How the Y measures up: We follow a strict “rule of three” policy. This means no one-on-one situations: interactions always happen in view of others, and we design schedules and spaces to support that.
5. How does the camp handle reports or concerns?
What to listen for: There should be clear, accessible ways for staff and parents to report concerns—anonymously if needed.
How the Y measures up: Our staff are mandated reporters trained to act immediately. Parents can share concerns with leadership directly, use our Feedback Form, or call our anonymous reporting hotline.
6. How are parents kept in the loop?
What to listen for: Camps should make communication easy, not make you chase information.
How the Y measures up: We provide regular updates, end-of-day summaries, and open lines of communication with camp leadership. Parents are encouraged to reach out anytime—before, during, or after camp.
Because Safe Camp is Smart Camp
We know safety isn’t a checklist—it’s a culture. At the Y, we work year-round to uphold the highest standards so that every child can thrive. Visit Keeping Children Safe from Abuse for Sewickley Valley YMCA policies, safety resources, and what to expect from a safe, supportive YMCA environment.