Help children prepare for summer camp

Choose a camp that is suited to your child's personality, temperament and interests. If your child likes music, art or horseback riding, pick a camp with strengths in that area. At the same time, there is nothing wrong with encouraging kids to try new things and have a variety of experiences. In general, do not force kids to do things they really dislike or simply cannot do.
Involve your child in choosing the camp. Review brochures, Web sites and videos together. Visit the camp if at all possible and meet staff. Ask for the names of other families you can talk to about the camp.
Don't push children to go to camp at too early of an age. The "right" age will vary from child to child. Some children are "ready" for "sleep away" camp at age 5 or 6, while others would not even consider the idea at age 14 or 15. If a child doesn't seem ready for a full summer, numerous weeks or even a short stay away, consider a day camp. It may be an easier transition and a more positive experience.
Does your child know any other campers? If your child is shy, or has not been away from home very much, consider a camp where he or she will know at least one person close in age. Having one friend makes it easier to meet other children.
Send reminders of home. Encourage your child to bring a favorite toy, books, music or other reminders of home (as allowed by the camp). Make sure you follow all the written guidelines in order to make a smooth transition from home.
Don't be surprised if your child gets “homesick.” It's a normal reaction to being away from family and friends, especially for the first time. Don't criticize a child who feels homesick at camp. Telling them to "get over it" can sometimes make them feel even worse. Instead, be supportive, reassuring and consistent. Try to focus on immediate goals, like special events and communication times etc. For most kids, episodes of homesickness pass within a few days.
Prepare your child for a typical day, week, month, etc. Explain the daily schedule and include the important factors such as: sleeping arrangements, bathing, meal times, roommates, etc. What outdoor and indoor activities will they participate in? Children worry about small things that are routine at home—they are not always routine away from home!
What is the discipline policy? Is there a policy in place for discipline? What happens if your child has a problem with another child? Will the staff handle it appropriately? If your child has a problem with another camper, encourage them to try to work things out themselves before intervening. Always suggest they talk with the camp counselor for help and suggestions. Remember, part of camp is learning how to deal with new people and different situations.
Group size is important. The American Camp Association recommends a staff-to-child ratio of 1:8 for children ages 6–8; 1:10 for ages 9–14 and 1:12 for ages 15–18.
Staff members are crucial in the decision-making process. Make an appointment to meet the director and learn about his or her qualifications and credentials. Ask about the staff and counselors. Find out if they have school-age experience and whether they complete ongoing training in the field of early childhood education, recreation, etc.

Parents: Help your children prepare for summer camp

4C offers 10 tips to consider when sending off school-age campers

The following tips can help parents prepare children for summer camp:

Call us and speak with a 4C parent counselor for a free consultation.