Anyone lucky enough to grow up going to summer sleepaway camp often hold the memories and friendships near and dear to their hearts. Long days swimming in lakes and hiking through the woods culminated in singing songs and eating s'mores around the campfire. And while mom and dad may have plenty of stories about the fun they experienced, sometimes it's not enough to calm the nerves of a first time camper. A week or more away from parents, temporarily replaced by counselors, can feel daunting for kids embarking on this new adventure. Here are some helpful tips to help kids prepare for summer camp.
Summer Camp Tips for Kids
Going to camp for the first time, especially if it is an overnight experience, for a week or more, can bring on a case of the jitters. It is completely normal for kids to feel anxious about their time away from home, sleeping in a cabin full of strange new faces and participating in lots of new outdoor activities. Lots of young campers are faced with participating in activities outside of their comfort zone, whether it's a physical challenge or large social gathering. In addition to reading kids' books about summer camp, there are some other things parents can do to get their kids ready for this new experience.
(1) Validate the wide range of emotions a child is feeling leading up to the departure date.
It is common for kids to ride a rollercoaster of emotions, from excitement to fear, that can change on a a moment's notice. Be careful not to dismiss the feelings a child is sharing. As a parent, you will want to listen openly and provide some positive encouragement while acknowledging it is normal to be a little nervous.
(2) Visit the camp beforehand if at all possible.
If you can't tour the property in advance, then find photos on the camp's website to help your child become familiar with the location. Focus on showing your child all of the fun attractions, like rope courses, paddle boats, and arts and crafts studios.
(3) Take your child shopping so they can pick out their own supplies.
Having your kids involved in as many decisions as possible will help them feel empowered and independent enough to enjoy all that summer camp has to offer.
(4) Clearly establish expectations about communication before your child leaves.
The camp likely has guidelines about cell phone usage, perhaps not allowing them at all or giving kids very limited access. These rules may seem extreme for a first-time camper, but they are in place for a very good reason. The best way for kids to fully emerge in the camp experience is by limiting contact with home. Talking to your children frequently during sleep away camp may invoke feelings of homesickness and interfere with their ability to adapt.
(5) Buy your children a journal so they can take some quiet time to write down their experiences, funny stories, emotions, and anything else notable about their time at camp.
This journal can also be used as a scrapbook where photos and mementos are affixed on the pages inside. Your children will appreciate that their memories will be forever preserved.
