Summer camp can be an enriching experience for children, provided they are emotionally ready to embark on this adventure. Parents should assess their children for readiness, taking children’s needs into consideration over their own “need” to have the children in camp. Additionally, children should be able to independently manage personal hygiene issues, such as bathing, dressing, and grooming. Some kids are ready for camp at age 8, others not until 14.
Many parents fail to consider the camp-to-camper match that should be present when selecting camps. Selecting strictly on session dates or what you feel would be best may not show you the best camps for your child. Each child is an individual. His ages, personality, talents, likes and dislikes must be taken into account as you help organize summer plans. Consider camps that help develop his skills and interests. When asked why he’s attending a specific camp, your child’s answer should be, “Because I love (name activity),” not “Because my parents made me come.”
Many children go to camp with mixed feelings. To make the experience as comfortable as possible, here are some tips to consider.
1. Involve your child in the camp-selection process. Don’t make it something that is simply forced on your child. Have him or her review brochures, websites and other informational material with you. Select camps that will cater to the child’s interests. If possible, try to find a camp where a friend is attending.
2. Count down to summer camp so that when the day arrives it won’t be a complete surprise and catch your child off guard. Involve him or her in the preparation process, including shopping for supplies and packing. Encourage your child to bring familiar items from home to ease away some feelings of homesickness.
3. Tour the camp in advance so that your child knows what to expect - and so will you. See the sleeping arrangements (bunks) and what type of schedule is involved. Talk about any fears your child may have, and work through solutions together to assuage these fears. A good idea is to talk about your personal experiences with camp, if any.
4. Encourage letter writing, and send some of your own. Mail a few letters before the first day of camp, so your child will have some mail waiting for him or her already. Pack fun stationery and pre-addressed and stamped envelopes so writing a quick note home will be a snap.
5. Create a scrapbook of your child’s moments in camp to show you are truly interested in his or her time spent away. Encourage your child to share any new skills learned upon visits or when he or she returns home.
Camp should be a fun rewarding experience for your child. The time and money invested in a camp should be well worth the enjoyment it brings to your child. Don’t be shy and call the camps you are considering sending your child to, to ask about their reputation. You may wish to ask the name of a private referral or a parent or counselor who can provide an unbiased opinion.
For more information on camps in your area and advice on choosing the right one for your family, check out some of the following websites: American Camp Association www.aca-camps.org; National Camping Association www.summercamp.org; Kids Camps www.kidscamps.com.