Summer camp is a time-honored tradition, rich with
activities, newfound friendships and a lifetime of memories. When thinking
about and booking summer camp for your child, keep in mind these ways to make
your child's camp experience smooth sailing from start to finish.
S'more than just fun
According to the RAND Corporation, a non-profit research
organization, children who participate in summer programs, like experiential
learning activities offered in an organized camp, are less likely to experience
a significant summer learning slide.
Camp also enhances a child's physical and emotional
well-being. Activities build social skills, teamwork and independence, which
all contribute to stronger self-confidence and leadership abilities.
“I often hear from parents how amazed they are when their
children return home after spending time at camp,” says Doug Berkel, a senior
program director of Youth Development Services with a YMCA. “They say they seem
older and more mature."
Start with a good
day camp
First, together with your child, decide what skills you
want your child to gain and choose a camp that fits her needs and interests, as
well as your family's values.
Day camps are a practical way to introduce children, ages
5 to 12, to the camp experience. Most center on a theme — like sports, science,
nature, technology and the arts.
Ann Bowley says that when her stepson, Trevor, was
younger, he enjoyed planning out the day camps he wanted to attend each summer.
However, as her son got older he grew more apprehensive about starting over
with a new group of kids each week.
“We talked to him about it and he never changed his
plans. We just looked for school mates that might be in camp with him to help
him be more comfortable," she says.
READ MORE: Hudson Valley camp experts give their advice
Find your child’s
specialty
Specialty camps center around one activity like music,
art, sports or science. These camps provide children the space to further
explore and develop a skill that interests them.
"Specialty camps tend to run partial days and could
be a nice addition to regular day camps," Berkel says.
Transitioning to
overnight camps
Overnight camps, typically in an outdoor setting, can
last anywhere from a few days to several weeks and are generally offered for
children ages 7 and up. If you aren't sure your child is ready, allow him to
spend the night at friends' houses occasionally. Or, as Berkel suggests, take
advantage of a weekend family camping opportunity, usually offered in the fall
and spring to familiarize campers and their families with the facilities and
staff.
Avoid “Camp Run Amok”
Check out safety guidelines in the camp's parent
handbook.
Look for overnight camps accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). “ACA standards are the most universal and well-known
standards adopted by most camps to ensure a quality and safe program,"
Berkel says.
Day and specialty camps should carry a current state
childcare license. Additionally, staff should be trained in emergency,
communication and safety procedures, behavior management techniques (including
handling the common bout of homesickness), and child abuse prevention.
Conquer the camp blues
Preparation and an awareness of what to expect can ease
the transition from home to camp. Before your child departs, go over a list of
everything she will need. Pack a physical connection to home like a favorite
sleeping bag, stuffed animal or pillow.
Also, mail a card ahead of time to ensure it arrives
before the end of camp. Tell your child how you look forward to hearing her
camp stories, but avoid saying how much you miss her, which can trigger
homesickness and worry.
Initial nervousness isn't unusual. If your child asks to
come home, consider the situation, but encourage him to discuss his anxieties
with the camp counselor and take it one day at a time.
READ MORE: New York State summer camp regulations
"Tell him 'Yes, today was hard, but I think it will
be better tomorrow' and usually tomorrow is better," says camping pro John
Whiteside, a 14-year veteran Boy Scout leader, soccer coach and father of
eight, John Whiteside. Over the years, Whiteside and his children have
participated in multiple camps, including sports, band and weeklong scout
camps.
While your child may struggle at first, chances are he'll
come home a happy camper with a heightened sense of self-confidence, memorable
stories and a passel of new friends to boot.
Freelance writer
Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. Christa is
the author of “Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.”