Summer camp is a favorite childhood experience and can help a child develop social skills they’ll carry with them the rest of their lives. Summer camp can be a place where kids learn confidence, make friends, try new things, and grow their independence. A little preparation can help your child enjoy their first summer camp experience.

Check out these tips for preparing your child for their first summer camp. 

 

Let Them Know What To Expect

It’s important to let your kids know what to expect for summer camp. You can learn about a day in the life of a camper from the camp director. Talk to your child about what a typical camp day looks like. Remind them to follow safety instructions, stay hydrated, and who they can go to if they have questions. If the camp has expectations for chores or cleanup, let your kids know if they’re expected to help with bunk cleanup or what other chores they’ll need to assist with. 

Let them know what types of activities they can choose to participate in at camp.

 

Be Aware Of Medical Policies

It’s important to know about any camp rules around medications, food allergies, or any special health needs that your child has. Understand who should receive medications at the summer camp and how they are administered so you can prepare your child. 

Make sure your child’s medications are current and get them a health checkup before they leave for camp so they are up to date on everything. 

 

Double Check The Packing List

Summer camps will provide parents with a camper pack list before you send the kids off for summer. Your kids will feel more comfortable heading away from home if they have everything they need. Pull out the packing list and double check that you have everything on the list together. Let the kids help you pack everything so they know where everything is when they unpack at camp. 

 

Pack A Reminder Of Home

Let your child pack an item or two to remind them of home. It could be a stuffed animal, a favorite book, or a picture of the family. Ask the camp director about their letter-writing policy. Pack some self-addressed stamped envelopes so your child can write home to you. 

Mail your child a mid-week treat the first week of camp to let them know you’re thinking of them. Don’t forget to check if there are any restrictions on what you can send in case anyone at camp has a nut allergy.

A little preparation can get your summer started on the right foot!