What Parents Asked at the Millburn–Short Hills Camp Fair This Year

The recent Millburn–Short Hills Camp Fair at Millburn High School in New Jersey brought together dozens of outstanding summer camps and hundreds of local families. And, as always, the questions parents asked revealed what’s really on their minds when planning summer.

If you couldn’t attend this year’s event, here’s a look at the most common questions we heard, and what they say about how North Jersey families are thinking about summer.

Looking ahead? You can find details and updates for the next year's Millburn–Short Hills Camp Fair here.

1. "Is Sleepaway Camp Worth It?"

This was easily the most frequently asked question. Millburn and Short Hills families are thoughtful decision-makers. Many parents wanted to understand:

• The emotional readiness of their child
• Whether 2 weeks vs. 4 weeks is better
• How camps support first-time campers
• What happens if a child feels homesick

Camps shared how structured communication, supportive counselors, and gradual session options help ease first-year transitions.

2. "What Ages Are Best to Start?"

Parents with children in 1st–4th grade were especially curious about timing.
Many camps explained that:

• Day camp builds confidence early
• Short sleepaway sessions are a great bridge
• Leadership programs for middle schoolers are increasingly popular

North Jersey families are planning earlier than ever — many already thinking two summers ahead.

3. "How Competitive Are Specialty Camps?"

STEM, performing arts, and sports camps generated significant interest. Families asked:

• How selective are programs?
• Do kids need prior experience?
• Are there tryouts?

The takeaway: specialty programs are growing rapidly, and families are looking for camps that balance skill development with fun.

4. "What's the Difference Between Camps?"

Parents compared:

• Traditional vs. specialty camps
• Large vs. boutique camps
• In-state vs. out-of-state options

Many families appreciated being able to ask these questions face-to-face in one afternoon instead of researching dozens of websites individually.

5. "How Do We Compare Camps Side-by-Side?"

One of the biggest benefits of the Millburn–Short Hills Camp Fair is the ability to:

• Meet directors directly
• Compare philosophies
• Discuss safety and supervision
• Evaluate facilities and program structure

That kind of real-time comparison is difficult online — and it’s why so many families attend each year.

What This Tells Us About Millburn-Short Hills Families

Millburn and Short Hills families are:

• Thoughtful planners
• Focused on long-term development
• Interested in both local and overnight options
• Looking for high-quality, well-run programs

The conversations were engaged, informed, and forward-looking — exactly what makes this community such a strong camp market.

7. Missed This Year's Event?

If you couldn’t attend, don’t worry — we’ll be back next season with another Millburn–Short Hills Camp Fair.
Get updates and early access here.