Knowing how to get through the paperwork, packing the gear, and being able to say good-bye can help take the stress out of preparing for summer camp.

A child’s first experience at summer camp should be exciting and fun. Parents, on the other hand, may find the process stressful and confusing when trying to prepare. The following tips may help with this process.

Paperwork

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. This may involve signing a waiver form, providing emergency contact information, and medical information. This would include pertinent medical history, allergies to foods, medications, or plants, and any current medications taken by the camper. It is a good idea to retain a copy of the completed paperwork for future reference.

Clothing and Equipment

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. Typical items to bring include the following:

· Extra changes of clothes, especially those that can get dirty.

· Underwear and socks.

· Sturdy shoes.

· Swimsuit

· A foot locker with padlock for security.

· A daypack, such as an old school book bag.

· Water bottle

· Suntan lotion

· Sunglasses

· Personal hygiene items and a towel.

· Current prescription medications and inhalers.

Some programs may require specialty items that have to purchased. 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. When in doubt, check with the program to make sure the child is prepared.

Physical Fitness

There may be physical fitness requirements, depending on the kind of program the child attends. For instance, a week-long technology camp may require less physical activity than a week-long backpacking trip in the Rockies. For some kids, especially those who are already active, this will not be much of a problem. However, some children may need extra help to get ready. Check with the program to make sure what is required, and whether the child may need to do some conditioning. Note that whenever starting a physical fitness routine it is important to consult with a physician.

The Personal Touch

When packing for the big day, think about including in the luggage a personal note or family picture for the child to find. A few kind, supporting words from Mom and Dad can go a long way to easing homesickness.

Preparing the Parent

Parents need to be prepared too for summer camp. For some, this may be the first time they are separated from their child for an extended period of time. It may be tempting to call to the camp to ask how one’s son or daughter is doing to check up on them. Let the kids have their space, and allow them to enjoy the full camp experience. That way, when they come back at the end of the week, they will have all kinds of stories and of adventures to tell!

More Information

For more information about the summer camp experience and tips for parents, visit the American Camping Association’s section for families. There, parents can find additional resources and helpful hints. Also, for ideas on picking a summer camp program, look here inside Suite101.com.