A CAMP PRIMER

TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR KIDS READY
FOR A SUMMER THEY'LL NEVER FORGET

Camp, especially summer camp, has become an American tradition. Generations of families have gone to camp—making new friends and lifelong memories. For parents of first-time campers, preparing for camp is an exciting and new adventure. It’s important to consider all aspects of the camp experience—how to mentally prepare campers prior to camp, what to pack, and how to help ease homesickness. The American Camp Association (ACA) suggests keeping the following in mind as parents begin to prepare their children, and themselves, for camp:

Camp provides an opportunity for children to explore a much larger world, offering a chance to practice normal, healthy separation. This allows children to develop autonomy and a stronger sense of self, make new friends, and develop new social skills.

Camp decisions, like what to pack, should be made together. When children feel that they are part of the decision-making process, they are more comfortable.

Parents shouldn’t be afraid to let their children talk about the upcoming camp experience. Express confidence in the child’s ability to handle being away from home. Families can remind the child of other times they have been away from home successfully—sleepovers with friends or family, etc.

Most of all, it’s important for children and parents to maintain realistic expectations. Parents should encourage realistic views of what camp will be like, discussing both the high points and the low points children may experience.

When packing for camp, families need to avoid either packing too much or not enough. Parents should check with their individual camp for specific camp packing lists; however, here are a few guidelines to keep in mind when packing for camp:

Parents should consider packing items to protect a camper from the sun. Remember to pack items such as scarves, bandannas, baseball caps or a sunhat, as well as needed eyeglasses, sunglasses and swimming goggles.

Clothing is a necessary component of camp; just don’t expect any to return home clean! Don’t forget to pack T-shirts, a swimsuit and shorts for hot days; a jacket, sweatshirt and jeans for cool or cold days; and a raincoat or poncho for rainy days. Also, long pants will protect a camper from poison ivy, bugs and thorns during hikes. Check with the camp to see if dress clothes are required.

Appropriate footwear is one of the most important items to pack for children at camp, especially when they are hiking, spelunking, running and heading to the beach. Families should consider packing boots, tennis shoes, sandals, lots of socks and possibly dress shoes, if the camp requires them. Remember that shoes should be broken in prior to the start of camp.

Don’t forget to pack the basics—especially if children are attending resident camp. Items such as towels, a blanket, a pillow, pillowcases, sheets, a sleeping bag, a laundry bag and a mattress pad may be required. Bathroom kits are essential. Pack a brush and comb, shampoo, soap and soap container, toothbrush and holder, toothpaste, deodorant, insect repellent, feminine products, sunblock, shaving gear and lip balm with sunblock in it.

Families should also pack additional items, including books and magazines, flashlights and batteries, Frisbees or other toys, a water bottle and writing materials. When considering electronics, musical instruments and other special gear, check with the camp about policies.

Once children are packed and ready for camp, families may be worried about homesickness. Research indicates that mild homesickness is normal, and only a small percentage of cases are severe. Families can help children overcome homesickness by exercising a little preparation and patience. Some tips include:

Practicing separations, such as sleepovers at a friend's house, prior to camp.

Making children part of the decision process, including what to pack. The more that children are involved, the more comfortable they will feel being at camp.

Discuss phone calls home ahead of time. If your child's camp has a no-phone-calls policy, honor it.

Send a care package or letter to arrive on the first day. Acknowledge, in a positive way, that you will miss your child. For example, you can say, "I am going to miss you, but I know that you will have a good time at camp."

Pack a personal item from home, such as a stuffed animal.

Don't feel guilty about encouraging your child to stay at camp. For many children, camp is a first step toward independence and plays an important role in their growth and development.

For additional information and tips, families can visit www.campparents.org, ACA’s family resource site. ACA’s Find a Camp search allows families to look for a camp based on region, activity, cultural focus, budget, session length and much more! In addition, families can follow ACA on Facebook and Twitter for helpful hints and camp information.

The American Camp Associationｮ (ACA) works to preserve, promote and enhance the camp experience for children and adults. ACA-Accreditedｮ camp programs ensure that children are provided with a diversity of educational and developmentally challenging learning opportunities. There are over 2,400 ACA-accredited camps that meet up to 300 health and safety standards. For more information, visit www.campparents.org.

A CAMP PRIMER

TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR KIDS READY FOR A SUMMER THEY'LL NEVER FORGET

TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR KIDS READY
FOR A SUMMER THEY'LL NEVER FORGET