Summer is approaching and for many kids it may be the first time going to a summer camp. It is quite understandable the parents will be apprehensive how things will go. A proper advance preparation can make everyone feel more comfortable. Your preparation obviously starts picking the right camp for your kid. You will want a summer camp that is your child will enjoy, and for this consult your child what kind of camp will mean fun and pleasure for him or her. You must choose between a day camp and a night camp. There are a variety of camps like religious camps, sports camps, adventure camps, academic camps, scouts etc. You will have to decide about the duration of the camp and also ascertain if any of your child's friends are coming to the same camp so that he has known company. More then all these, you certainly want a camp that is safe for your child.
Staff-to-camper ratio, Staff training, hiring procedures, background checks of all staff , availability of doctors and medical staff, systems for keeping the camp children safe from intruders and weather conditions are few of the important safety factors. If the camp is accredited by the American Camp Association, then it will meet more than 300 standards on health, safety, facilities, programs, and staffing and you may not have to bother much. But smaller camps are not accredited and if you choose one of these camps, then you might as well do all the necessary verifications.
Enquire and find out what gear your child needs to bring and buy that if necessary. The kind of clothing and gear that the child needs to bring is dependent on the program. The camp may provide a checklist of recommended items for camp. Some programs may require specialty items - for instance, expedition backpacking programs will require hiking boots, scouting programs will want the child to bring a scout uniform, church camps will want the camper to bring religious items, etc. Make arrangements for travel to and from camp. Explain patiently to your child about what to expect at camp and dispel all his doubts and misgivings. If your child appears diffident, infuse confidence in his or her ability to handle being away from home.
After choosing the camp best suited for your child, you can send in all required enrollment forms and medical fitness forms. Sending a son or daughter to summer camp requires completing paperwork. Oftentimes the required documents are mailed out to families months in advance, or may even be available online at the program's website Take the time to review the forms thoroughly, and complete all the required information. The last few days before the day of departure for the camp will obviously be hectic as you need to pack all the materials, using the checklist you received from the camp. Make sure to pack self-addressed stamped postcards or envelopes so your child can write to you from camp site. Give your child adequate money for buying snacks, t-shirts and all small things. Going to summer camp can be a big experience for children and it is a pragmatic way for children to practice independence, make new friends, learn about teamwork, develop new skills etc.
A child's experience at summer camps should be exciting and fun. Parents, on the other hand, may find the process stressful and confusing when trying to prepare. Knowing how to get through the paperwork, packing the gear, and being able to say good-bye can help take the stress out of you.