It’s hard to believe the school year is almost over! Will your child be attending a summer camp this summer? Chances are they may very well be. Here are some things to consider when choosing a summer camp:
1. Is the camp safe? Many camps will allow for a tour. Be sure to check out the camp site, the staff, facilities, as well as other parents’ comments about the camps. Read reviews on their website and see what other families have experienced at the camp.
2. Is the camp a good fit for your child? Does your child have any special needs and can the camp accommodate for those needs? Are you looking for a music camp for a child that really enjoys sports or vice versa? Be sure to ask your child what types of camps they are interested in. You can give your child a short list of camps that are feasible and they can choose from that list.
3. What will be the rules for communication with parents at the camp? How many phone calls or visits are allowed? How does your child handle being away from you? It is common for many children to have some mild anxiety when they are away from their parent, especially at the very beginning of camp. However, for most children the anxieties subside.
4. Is this your child’s first year at camp? You will need to decide if a day camp or overnight camp works best for them. If an overnight camp is chosen, be sure to give them enough soothing items (maybe a special photo, keepsake, or ‘lucky charm’) for them to reduce any nervousness that may appear.
5. Are you a nervous parent about sending your child to camp? Sometimes children going away to camp can be anxiety-provoking for parents too. Keep lines of communication open with camp staff and be sure to use your own stress management regimen. Your own stress management techniques may include talking with friends and family, writing a letter to your child to send to camp, or preparing a “welcome home” fun package for your child.