Going to overnight summer camp—especially for the first time—is a big event in a child’s life. They’ll be spending several nights away from home in a new place with no parents around. It’s a big step—not just for them, but for you as well. Luckily, there are steps you can take to ease the uncertainty and maximize the excitement for this summer adventure—talking to them about it early, packing summer camp essentials and comfort items, practicing independence, and more. In this blog, we’ll help you prepare!
Start the Conversation Early
Don’t wait until a few days before camp begins to start the conversation with your child about what to expect. Start as soon as you sign them up! Share with them what the average day at camp might look like so they have an idea of what to expect.
At Camp Tall Timbers, daily activities include cabin cleanup, swimming, a rest hour, evening entertainment, and elective activities:
- Sports
- Horseback riding
- Aquatics
- Hiking
- Ziplines
- Arts and crafts
- And many more …
You can find a full rundown of the daily schedule and activities here. When your child knows all the fun things in store for them, their excitement will build and any reservations they have will dissipate.
Pack Smart Together
Packing doesn’t have to feel like a chore! Set aside some time to check the packing list of all the summer camp essentials—toiletries, blankets, books, sunscreen, bug spray, and of course, summer camp outfits. Those aren’t all the summer camp supplies that should go along with them. There are several items that may be specific to your child that can make their experience delightful.
Don’t forget to include some comforting items from home, especially if this is their first outing. These could include a special blanket or stuffed animal that they hold dear. You can even make one of their summer camp outfits incorporate clothing items they love to wear. Small touches like this can go a long way towards their overall comfort.
Label Everything
No matter if it’s toothbrushes, towels, sleeping bags, or individual clothing items, it’s a good idea to label everything your child brings along with them. Durable name labels or permanent markers will do the trick. Applying these labels helps them locate lost belongings and take ownership of each item, as well as practice responsibility skills.
Practice Independence at Home
Summer camp essentials aren’t just tangible items; they can include positive mindsets and habits, as well! The best part is that your child can begin to get some practice in before they even show up at Camp Tall Timbers! Encourage your child to:
- Make their own bed every morning
- Keep track of their personal items and belongings
- Get into a basic daily routine that will help them thrive
When these routines are established, your little one will be able to adjust to camp life more easily and be ready for life away from home.
Prepare for Homesickness
Even though overnight summer camp is a blast—filled with fun and life-skills building—homesickness is a possibility. They’re not used to such a change in lifestyle, albeit a temporary one. Well before camp begins, take steps to let them know that these feelings of homesickness will pass once they settle in.
To help them through these emotions, you can plan to send them a letter in the middle of their stay, to assure them you’re thinking about them and you want them to have a great time! This show of love and support will go a long way.
Review Camp Rules and Safety Tips
Closer to camp time, sit down with your child and go over the rules and expectations of the camp—such as our rules around no cellphone use. Talk about the importance of respecting the other campers, staying safe, and speaking up if they have a concern. Reinforcing these values will help your child feel empowered and confident that they can take on this exciting new situation!
All the Summer Camp Essentials
Getting your child ready for their first summer camp experience is a process that should begin sooner rather than later. It’s about more than packing summer camp essentials and getting in the car—it’s about building their confidence levels and letting them know you trust them to be independent. You trust them to foster their burgeoning sense of adventure. Giving them this show of support will help them start their experience off right: with excitement for the adventures and memories that will soon manifest! If you as a parent have any concerns around summer camp supplies, safety policies, and activities, we understand and we’re ready to answer any questions you have. All you need to do is reach out and we’ll put your mind at ease!