by Mabel Jane

Created on: May 28, 2010   Last Updated: May 29, 2010

If there is one thing parents love, it is seeing their child smile. And, after a few days or weeks at summer camp, you’re child will have a perma-grin that will last until fall-at least that is what you hope when you sign your child up for sleepaway camp. Though the much of the experience relies on the camp, staff, other campers and your child’s attitude, there are some things you can do as a parent to ensure a great time for your little camper. The key to having a positive camp experience comes from: staying safe and healthy; making friends and having fun.

Staying Safe and Healthy

Before your child leaves for camp, talk to him or her about keeping safe in the sun. Educate your child on how to put on sunblock, when to re-apply and wearing it even when they are not on the beach. Talk to your child about the consequences of not wearing sunblock. A child with bad sunburn or sun poisoning may have to sit out of activities and will not enjoy anything in pain.

Make sure to talk to your child about staying hydrated. Give him or her instruction on how much to drink every day. Do it in measurements a child would understand, like 2 bottles per day (instead of 64 ounces).

Go over hygiene habits and plan a schedule. Will they take their showers during the day or at night? Will they floss after lunch or before bed? Prepare your child for taking care of his or her self while away. Practice proper hand-washing with your child.

Equip your child with the right tools. Pack: sunblock, aloe vera, water bottle, hand-sanitizer.

Making Friends

If your child isn’t a social butterfly, talk to him or her about making friends. When meeting your child’s counselor on drop-off day, let the counselor know if you have a shy child. The counselor will help find him or her a friend. The counselor may also spend extra time with your child to help him or her feel more comfortable. Camp staff are trained to deal with all sorts of children, especially shy or lonely kids.

Equip your child with the right tools. Pack safe items your child can share with friends and that evoke play, like friendship string, cards and books. Do not pack food. Outside food is usually not allowed at camp.

Having Fun

Before the big day, talk to your child about all of the fun things he or she will be doing at camp. Get your child excited. Make sure to follow the list of things to bring and not bring to camp. You want to make sure your child has all of the right clothes and accessories for all of the activities they will be doing. You do not want them to not be able to participate in an activity because they don’t have the appropriate clothing or equipment.

Equip your child with the right tools. Pack a camera so they can document all of the fun things they are doing.

Preparing your child ahead of time and giving him or her the proper tools will ensure a smile on the face during the entire camp experience and for weeks after.

Learn more about this author, Mabel Jane.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.