Posted on December 11, 2007 in latest news
Children enjoy a lot in summer camps. It is a sort of relaxation for them and a break from school and home. It is a challenge for you to see that your child enjoys his/her camp, and he/she is equipped with all that he/she might require.
Here are a few tips to ensure it’s a positive experience for everyone involved.
- Let your child help select his/her camp. Together go to camp web sites, review videos and brochures, or attend open houses. Get the names of others who have attended and talk with them about their experiences. Choose a camp that suits your child’s personality and interests. If your child likes horseback riding, athletics, music, or art, make sure the camp has strengths in those areas. Perhaps pick a camp where your child will have a friend attending.
- Mark the first day of camp on the calendar, and “count down” together with your child. Spend some time sharing your positive camp experiences, and if possible, pull out your own camp photos or scrapbooks. Talk about their expectations and answer their questions. Consider going to the library, checking out books on summer camps and reading them with your child.
- Get excited with your child; make a big deal of developing a checklist of items for camp, and work with your child in assembling them together. Encourage your child to bring favorite books, music, games, toys, and other reminders of home such as photos.
- Talk to your child about homesickness and how it may be sad or scary at first. Tell them it’s normal.
- Make a point of meeting your child’s camp staff, inspecting their “bunk”, and walking around the grounds. This will familiarize your child and help you feel included in their experience.
- Don’t encourage homesickness and let your child socialize.
- To maintain that family connection, send a few letters several days before entrance to camp so your child has mail on the first day. Pack fun paper, pre-addressed and stamped envelopes or postcards, and writing utensils so your child can easily write back.
- While your child is on camp, don’t schedule a major family event.
- Listen to your child’s camp stories and encourage them to practice the new skills they acquired.
- Quickly develop pictures and/or create a scrapbook with your child. Help them maintain important friendships developed at camp. Get together with friends who live close.
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