Get the Kids Ready for Summer Camp

The school year is coming to an end, and we are getting the kids ready for summer camp. For kids, summer camp is a lot of fun and for us parents, is a way to help keep them busy during the summer months. You may be aware that summer camp can be quite expensive which may limit your options. Thus, finding an affordable summer camp can be a challenge. In previous years, we have enrolled our kids at their school summer camp program, although not affordable, we have done so because the kids are already familiar with the school, as well as the teachers.

After researching and looking over our area’s summer camps, we decided to stick with the kids current school summer program. Their daily activities include outside time, as well as learning time, which keeps the kiddos active and learning all summer long. If you are in the same process of finding a good summer program, I would advice you to do your own research. Start by calling your local parks or your local library to find out more about your area’s summer programs options. Once you narrow down the options, it is time to get the Kids Ready for Summer Camp.

The first step to getting the kids ready for summer camp is to speak to them and let them help in the decision of which kind of camp they will be attending. Nowadays there are all kinds of camps and by figuring out if they will be attending day camp or a sleepaway camp, you will be able to get them better prepared. Since our kids are still young, we keep them local to us. This means that everyday we drive them to camp and pick them up in the afternoon.

My number one step in getting the kids ready for summer camp is to listen to them. If you and your child think that they are ready to attend sleepaway camp, go over your expectations and acknowledge their fears. Express confidence to them in that they will be okay been away from you, but do listen to them if they express concern. Convey their responsibilities while at camp and make sure they understand that you will now be around, however, you are just a phone call away.

Now that we are all excited about summer camp, what do we need to pack for it?

Usually, there aren’t too many preparations involved for day camps, however, check with your camp to see if they have a must-have checklist. For our kids, we usually pack a backpack with a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a towel, a change of shirt, pencils, notebook and a blanket. The best part of day camp is that lunch is provided and even a quick snack is provided between meals, at least in our area. Check with your camp to make sure lunch and snacks are included.

However, if you already made the decision and your son or daughter will be going to sleepaway camp, what do you need to pack for them? If your kids will be attending a sleepaway camp, then the number one thing is to Follow is the camp’s packing list. Sleepaway camps send a list to the parents (or you can request it) with what the kids must-haves & must-not during camp. As a rule of thumb, your kids will need the same personal items they use at home, such as, soap, shampoo, laundry detergent, toothpaste, toothbrush, etc. Don’t forget their medications, consult with your camp on medicine dose.

If you are planing your kids summer camp, what is your number 1 tip? I would love to hear your tips. kindly leave a note in the message area below.