Summer is rapidly approaching, and that means it is time to get ready for summer camp. Whether it’s their first year or third, your child may need help adjusting to the new situation.
Here are things that you can do to prepare your child for summer camp.
Find a Camp With the Right Theme
The first step in preparing your child for summer camp is to find a camp that is safe and suits their interests. It’s important to choose a camp that offers activities that your child enjoys. For example, if your child enjoys sports, look for a sports camp. If they enjoy art, look for an art camp. This will help your child feel more comfortable and excited about going to camp.
When trying to make a final decision, involve your child in the process. Let them help you research the summer camp and choose the activities that they want to participate in. This will help them feel more invested in the experience and will make them more excited to attend.
Have Your Child Help Pack
Packing for summer camp can be a stressful experience, especially for younger children. They may wonder if they’ll have all they need. To make the process easier, involve your child in packing their own backpack. This will help them feel more in control and will ensure that they have everything they need for their time at camp.
When packing, make sure to label all your child’s belongings with their name. This will help prevent items from being lost or mixed up with other campers’ belongings. This includes their water bottle, lunch box, and backpack.
Set Expectations with Camp Stories
One of the best ways to prepare your child for summer camp is to share stories about your own camp experiences. Talk to your child about your own memories of camp, including the fun activities you did and the friends you made. This will help your child feel more excited about their own experience and will give them an idea of what to expect.
Talk About Emergency Procedures
It is important to make sure that your child knows about emergency procedures before sending them to camp. Much of the anxiety around going to summer camp is related to not having their parents around to protect them. If you show them what to do when problems arise, you can remove a lot of that anxiety for both of you.
Make Sure They Know How To Contact Camp Staff and Important Safety Information
Make sure your child knows the camp’s emergency procedures. This may include evacuation plans, first aid procedures, and other important information. Encourage your child to ask questions and to speak up if they feel unsafe or uncomfortable at any time.
Show Them The Camp
One of the best ways to prepare your child for summer camp is to tour the camp before they attend. If possible, take your child on a tour of the day camp and facilities. This will help them feel more familiar with the environment and will reduce the likelihood of anxiety.
Set An Expectation of Fun
Sending a kid to camp can be full of anxiety for parents and children. You can eliminate much of that anxiety with the right camp choice.
Providence Children’s Academy has summer programs available where your kids can learn and play throughout the summer.
Sign up for summer camps at Providence Children’s Academy to ensure that your campers have a great summer. Contact us to learn more.