Sweet Dreams at Overnight Camp
We all remember that first time we were dropped off at summer camp. I recall going with a couple of my girlfriends and traipsing down the dirt path to our cabin and choosing our bunks together. Making new friends is great when you’re all in it together.
One biggie that helps your child feel love from home is to get the address of the camp and mail a postcard or care package ahead of time so your camper will get mail early in the week. Also, be sure to provide enough cookies, granola bars or juice boxes for everybody in the cabin so your child can share. Another idea is to hide a special comfort item from home, perhaps a stuffed animal, blanket or hat, so your child will find it when he unpacks his bag.
Most camps provide a list of recommended items, so take time to read over it with your child. It’s okay to begin packing in advance so you can find all the items and eliminate last-minute searches for sunglasses and bandanas. Don’t pack what you know won’t be used, such as a washcloth if your child never uses a washcloth to wash his face, or anything else out of the ordinary routine. And don’t buy all new clothing for camp! At camp, children shouldn’t have to worry about getting dirty, so pack the old sneakers, flip-flops, t-shirts and shorts. Of course, purchasing a few new things for them to wear while there builds anticipation. Plenty of socks and underwear is a must—include a baggie to for kids to stash stinky items. Some shirts and shorts can be worn more than one day. Also, toss in a jacket, just in case.
Invest in a label maker. Many brands are available; seek out labels that will stay in place on everything. Also, make sure your kids can handle carrying their bags themselves, which helps with independence.
Check the swimsuit requirement for girls. Some camps only allow one-piece suits for girls. And for boys, make sure their swim trunks fit properly.
We parents want our kiddos to be happy, but be careful about what you commit to. Don’t promise your child she will be bunking with her best friend or cousin if the camp doesn’t honor these requests. Also, resist the urge to make the vow to come rescue a child who wants to come home. That kind of promise makes camp tough on everyone—camper, counselor and parents.
Another good idea is to practice independence skills with your children before camp. For instance, if your child needs practice combing her long hair or handling basic cleanup chores, give her the time to learn. A little toothbrush holder and small tube of toothpaste will seem like a treat, and a small deodorant or new hair ties will add to the desire to clean up.
And do go to the camp preview day if there is one. That way, you can answer questions your child may have and you’ll get to see where the kids will be sleeping and eating and hanging out.
Remember, you know your children better than anyone. Take your cues from them, and this will be a camp experience you all talk about for years!
Things to work on before heading out for sun and fun at camp:
- How do you introduce yourself to a new child? Discuss ways to start a conversation, such as, “Hi I’m Ashley … I like swimming! What is your favorite sport?” or “What is your favorite book? Mine is …”
- Prepare kids to be without a cell phone. Many camps don’t want these interfering with the camp experience. Pack a notepad so she can “text” on it, writing down things she would normally text to a friend or you.
- Introduce some new foods if your child is a picky eater. Prepare him for different flavors and items so he won’t go away from the table hungry if the macaroni and cheese or hamburger doesn’t taste like what’s served at home.
- Send photos along for bouts of homesickness. A little photo book stashed under the pillow can do wonders when trying to fall asleep!
Sources: HelpWeveGotKids.com, ParentHacks.com, Parents.com.
Judy Goppert lives in Lee’s Summit. She enjoys drawing on her personal experiences to write about the nuances of everything wonderful about life.