Preparing Your Child for Summer Camp

Summer camp is a fun way to teach your child new things while ensuring they get plenty of fresh air and physical activity. If your child is enrolled this year, here are some things you can do now to prepare your child for summer camp.

Discuss the summer camp experience

Be realistic about what your child can expect, and answer their questions honestly. If your child is nervous about the new experience, these discussions can help them prepare themselves and feel more in control.

Ensure all necessary forms are filled out

In order to be sure that your child will be safe, prepared, and well taken care of, the summer camp may have given you important forms. These can include emergency contact, pick-up authorization, food permission, and medical history. Filling these forms out as early as possible ensures there will be no delays if anything needs to be followed up on later.

Pack the necessary summer camp clothing or equipment

Your child’s summer camp will be able to tell you what your child needs to wear or bring to stay comfortable and protected. These items may include: proper summer attire, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, sun hats, and rain gear. Some summer camp activities may require specific clothing or equipment, such as a bathing suit.

Be aware of policies and procedures

Because many children have special requirements such as food allergies or medication, your summer camp should have policies and procedures in place to address these needs. They’ll be happy to work with you to ensure your child is getting the care and attention they need.

Brush up on social skills

Whether or not your child will be attending summer camp with new children, it is an ideal time to practice social skills with them. You can practice things like saying please and thank you, sharing toys, giving others a chance to talk, and how to cope if they’re feeling upset or scared.