Summer Camps for Children
How to Help Your Child Have a Positive Summer Camp Experience
Summer camp can build confidence, independence and help kids develop new skills. Before you send your children off to camp this year, find out how to ensure they have the best camp experience possible.
Choosing a Summer Camp for Your Child
Do your research ahead of time. Talk to your child about what kind of things he would like to do while he is at camp. Camps exist for all kinds of special interests, so be sure you take your child's interests and concerns in mind when deciding what camps to consider. When you've chosen one or two camps, take a tour, talk with a few staff members and watch the kids as they interact with the staff and their fellow campers. Do they look like they are enjoying themselves? What kind of safety guidelines are in place? The American Camp Association provides an online search tool to help you find the right summer camp for your child.
Preparing to Leave for Summer Camp
If you've already chosen a summer camp, it's important to prepare for the camping experience ahead of time. Most camps will send parents a list of required supplies each camper must bring with him, so ensure you have the necessary gear in place well before the departure date. It's also important to prepare for your child's departure for summer camp emotionally. If this is your child's first sleepaway camp experience, talk to him about any fears or anxieties he might have and how he can cope with those feelings while he is away. Always let him know that you are available to talk to him on the phone and offer support at any time.
The Kids are Away at Camp! Now What?
Like their children, many parents will experience a range of emotions while their children are away at camp, especially if it is their first sleepaway camp experience. Whether you are elated, anxious or both, use the time while your child is away at camp to relax, recharge and practice letting go. It's still a good idea to remember to leave your cell phone on and charged up at all times, just in case. If your child experiences homesickness, let him know that you miss him too, and that homesickness is a normal feeling when you're away from home. However, if your child is really upset by the camp experience and wants to leave, it's best to honor his feelings and bring them home.
By choosing a camp that is a good fit for your child, preparing ahead of time and finding the right balance between supportive availability, and letting go while your child is away at camp you and your child can have a rewarding summer camp experience. Summer camp can help children develop their independence and confidence, build up new skills and make new friends. Whether your child is away for two days or two months, trust that you'll both gain from the experience, and keep your cell phone nearby.
