As a parent, one of the best ways you can enrich your child’s summer vacations is by giving them the gift of summer camp. Summer camp is an experience beyond a vacation; in many ways, camp can provide fundamental social and cooperative skills unlike school settings or family vacations. Above all, giving your children the opportunity to have a productive experience at camp is one of the most rewarding gifts you can offer as a parent. Read on for our top tips for preparing your child for an amazing camp experience ahead.
Make Planning for Camp a Family Activity
Involve your child (age-appropriately, of course) as much as possible in the planning and decision-making process. Allow them to provide their input regarding which camp they attend, what activities they are interested in, etc. This can set the scene for great discussions as a family, boosting your child’s morale and making the experience something exciting to look forward to.
View the Camp Experience as a Learning Opportunity
Help your child understand that day camp will provide ample opportunities to explore the world in new ways. It’s an incredible way to foster independence and open-mindedness, allowing your child to explore fun activities while making new friends with greater freedom. This can enable them to build greater confidence in their abilities, develop a deeper sense of autonomy, and practice teamwork. Camp will present new routines and new people to become friends with, so it will take some adapting – which is an excellent skill to learn early.
Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Prep
Packing for camp, even for day camp, should start well in advance to ensure you prepare thoroughly. Most camps will have a packing list, so you should assess this ahead of time and involve your child in the process of packing. Allow them to provide input on what they think they need, what kind of items they prefer, and any extras you both think will be good additions. Sunscreen, a hat, and water bottle are must-haves, however, valuables should always be kept at home. Be sure to label everything with your child’s name so misplaced items can be returned home. Additionally, it would be wise to check what the policy is for electronic devices, especially if your child is attending a day camp with a bus ride. Don’t forget to double-check your packing list and items!
Plan for Nerves and Open Discussions
Any new experience is sure to bring up feelings of uneasiness, even if both you and your child are super excited about camp. Check in and ask your child how they are feeling both in the days before camp and the day of. Be sensitive to their nervousness, anxiousness, or excitement, and make it normal to discuss all feelings that come up. The closer it gets to camp starting, some kids may start to show nervousness about embarking on the adventure. Help them open up and talk about their feelings and try not to guess or project your own. Do your best to communicate and help your child feel confident about what’s to come. Help them focus on the positives and everything they have to look forward to, even in a new environment.
Stay Realistic About Expectations
Like every experience, camp will be different for every child. The purpose of camp is to have fun, make friends, and learn to swim in a safe environment, so there should be no pressure involved. With all of the amazing lessons and skills and explorations, there will be great excitement as well as some challenges to overcome; it’s all part of the learning experience. Instill in your child that having a realistic perspective and expectations can allow them to prepare with an open mind and enjoy the experience fully.
As Parents, Remember to Prepare Yourself!
Like our kids, remember that any new changes or experiences are sure to bring about anxiousness or nervousness. However, keep in mind that children follow our examples so stay positive, show your excitement for your child, and don’t make drop-offs overly dramatic or drawn out. Make it short and sweet; get ready for the time and space you will soon have to recharge your own batteries.
Get Ready; It’s Going to be an Amazing Summer at Gate Hill Day Camp!
Heading to summer camp is an awesome opportunity you can offer your children. Whether it’s their first summer at day camp or their third, fourth, or fifth; preparation is key to a great time. Being prepped ahead of time can help alleviate nerves and remove fears that you’re forgetting something, and help your child relax and enjoy the changes ahead. Here at Gate Hill Day Camp, we look forward to having your child join us for all the fun, all summer long!
To learn more about our family-oriented day camp serving the New York City, Westchester, Orange, Rockland, North Jersey locations, contact our team today.