With more than 25 years of experience working with 2.6 million families annually, we have a deep understanding of how families search for camps and programs. However long this process takes, all families go through the following fundamental steps:

1. Families look for options using major search engines.

Over 85% of our visitors find us this way. In fact, we rank organically in the top three for thousands of camp- and kids’ program-related keywords. These aren’t paid ads such as AdWords. Search engines like Google rank millions of websites based on the usefulness of their pages related to the keyword, and we’re often in the top three.

What does this mean for you?

By driving traffic directly to Our Kids through organic search we effectively educate thousands of families about your brand. This is a much more cost-effective and efficient way of marketing than bidding on expensive generic keywords on Google.

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2. Families create a shortlist of options using keyword searches, filters, and other tools.

When families start their search on Our Kids, they’re not starting from scratch. Rather, their options are presented in an organized way– sorted by season, location, activities, duration, cost, and (our most recent addition) character traits:

Families can also mix and match different criteria through our advanced search tools, increasing their chances of finding something right for them on the first try:

What does this mean for you?

It means that every family visiting your profile has already used various filters, such as location and activity, to find you and is interested in and well-suited to what you have to offer.

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3. Families review each camp or program to see which best matches their needs

How far away are you?
How much does your program cost?
What specific skills will my child learn?
How can your program help my child grow?
Do you cater to special dietary needs?
What is your availability like?

Fortunately, Our Kids members have extensive profiles which include information about their programs, vision, rules, and register details.

We also legitimize your brand by providing valuable expert opinions called “Our Takes”:

Most members also have the option to invite a camper, alum, or parent to do an Insider’s Perspective video with us—in which they share their first-hand experience with a camp or program:

What does the video mean for you?

These videos provide powerful third-party validation that’s separate from and augments your own marketing and website—generating trust, engagement, and, ultimately, more registrations.

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4. Families continue to search or take the next steps

At this point, some families will be confident enough to contact you directly or register. For those who aren’t ready, Our Kids offers a robust set of tools and resources to drive repeat visits.

For example, families can build a list of camps and programs of interest using our shortlist tool:

Note: The shortlist tool includes an overview of each program, so families can continue exploring what you offer.

What does this mean for you?

Once you’re on a family’s shortlist you can expect them to visit your profile repeatedly throughout their decision-making process. This drastically increases your brands ability to stay ‘top of mind’ and the likelihood of your being chosen.

In conclusion

Choosing a camp or program is often an involved process. We understand each stage of this process intimately, and we use our knowledge to boost awareness, engagement, and registrations for camps and programs like yours.

We hope you’ve found this discussion helpful. Stay tuned for more insights into camp and program content from Our Kids.