Kids’ Summer Camps How to Prepare Your Child for One
Thursday, April 14th, 2011For most kids and teens the summer holidays are a perfect time for loafing about doing nothing in particular or spending time on social networking website. However, there are better and even more interesting things your child can do this summer. Summer camps involve fun activities together with some learning too. However, if your kids have never been to camp before, there a few things you are supposed to do to prepare them for a camp.
1. Choosing a camp should be a mutual judgment. Your child will only really enjoy camping experience if he/she was involved in the selection process. Kids with special needs may prefer going one camp over the other depending on certain activities. It’s a good thing to make a list of suitable camp locations and available activities and ask your child to choose the best children’s camp.
2. Pack carefully. If the camp has sent you a list of necessary things that your child needs to bring, make sure you follow it intimately. The camp will provide a few basic facilities and there will be a list of certain prohibited items just as cell cameras and phones. Be aware of camp regulations about medications or any special items that your child may require. If you hold any doubts or queries about the list of items, call the camp for clarifications.
3. Answer your kid’s questions. It is natural for a child to have apprehensions and questions for kids’ summer camps. Answer them as clearly as you can and try to provide them with as much confidence as possible.
4. Motivate your child to be self-reliant. A ten year old who has never stayed away from home is likely to get jittery at the very thought of spending a whole week at a children’s camp. The best way to cope witj this situation would be to tell your child about the fun and excitement of going to summer camp. Make sure your child knows how much you will miss him and that you are looking forward to hearing about the wonderful things he did as part of his summer fun activities.
5. Be there for your child even when he’s away at camp. Homesickness is a common malady at camp, but the impetus decision to rush back to Mom and Dad can be diffused by a calm and supportive phone call. Suppose your child shows signs of wanting to leave camp halfway, ask him if there’s a specific reason for this decision. If it’s just homesickness, reassure him that you are always there for him and that he needs to give the kids’ summer camp another chance.
6. suppose your child isn’t ready for a sleepover camp, you may consider sending him to a day camp for kids.