School’s out in a couple of months. You found the perfect day camp for your little artist, swimmer, or scientist, but you’re worried because camp is unfamiliar territory. Help prepare your child for what’s ahead with these tips to make their first camp experience a positive one.
One, Two, Buckle My Shoe: The Basics
Have children memorize their full name, address, and a parent’s cell phone number before camp begins.
Many day camps require closed-toe shoes and many activities need kids to get shoes on and off quickly. Practice tying shoelaces—if your little one hasn’t mastered this skill before camp starts, consider a pair of Velcro shoes. Do trial runs until they master getting shoes on and off in a timely manner. Practice makes perfect!
Children should be able to zip their own pants and sweatshirts (or wear pull-ons so they are self-sufficient). Teach them to tie a sweatshirt around their waist.
Apply sunscreen before leaving for camp; children who attend full-day camp should know how and when to reapply.
All Ears: Practice Listening & Communication
Be sure your child listens to and follows directions well. Following directions is vital to keep everyone safe and having fun. Practice active listening skills by asking your child to follow multi-step directions in sequential order.
Review camp policies posted online before camp begins to help prepare them for expectations. Read the policies out loud to your child and ask them if they understand or have any questions after each section.
Practice simple, direct responses to communicate dissatisfaction when necessary. Such as, “I don’t like that. Don’t do it again.” Make sure they know to ask a camp counselor for help if inappropriate or uncomfortable behavior continues from another child.
Children should know how (and be willing) to ask for help when needed. If they have any special needs, let camp staff know ahead of time. Kids and staff can even agree on a signal to get a staff member’s attention.
Have kids practice asking for what they want (politely). Manners go a long way. You’ve taught your child “please” and “thank you”—be sure they say these important phrases without your cue.
C is for Cookie: Make Lunch Stress-Free
Packaging often poses a problem for little fingers. Practice opening wrappers and containers at home.
Hand-washing is sure to be emphasized, but if it makes you more comfortable, ask camp staff ahead of time if hand wipes, sanitizer, or placemats are allowed in lunchboxes. Practice using these items at home to model expectations.
One in 13 children has a food allergy; it’s likely that someone at camp will too. Swapping snacks sounds like fun, but it’s not safe for many kids. Cross-contamination can pose a big problem for kids allergic to nuts or gluten. Teach children not to share food and to respect other people’s space by not touching their lunchbox and food.
Stop yourself the next time you start to clean up after your kids. Teach them how to sort trash from recyclables, throw items in proper bins, and most importantly, not to expect adults to clean up after them. Part of being successful, happy campers is for kids to help out and do their part.
You’ve Got a Friend in Me: Social Skill Essentials
For many first-time campers, enrolling with a buddy helps ease jitters, but it’s important to gain the confidence and skills to make new friends. Review and roleplay skills that show openness to making friends.
Practice how to greet someone new. Practice making eye contact and smiling. Teach them how to start up conversations, how to reply, and how to take turns.
Discuss the idea that not everyone has to be friends—especially if your child is a people pleaser.
With a little preparation, your child will be ready to embrace their first camp experience with confidence and excitement. From mastering self-sufficiency skills to practicing active listening and making new friends, these small steps can make a big difference in ensuring they have a fun, positive, and stress-free summer. While camp may be unfamiliar territory at first, with your support and guidance, your little camper will be well on their way to creating wonderful memories, building independence, and maybe even counting down the days until next summer!