The six best ways to prepare your kids for summer camp

Preparing your kids for summer camp involves both practical and emotional considerations. Here are some quick tips to help you get them ready as school comes to a close and summer kicks off:

Practical Preparation:

• Review Camp Details: Go through any materials provided by the camp together, such as schedules and activity lists. Discuss what activities they're excited about and which ones they’re nervous about to get ahead of uncertainties.
• Pack Together: Allow your child to pack their own backpack or bag with essentials like sunscreen, water bottle, snacks, and any required equipment for activities. Teaching them to prepare each day for themselves will create healthy organizational and leadership habits. 
• Label Belongings: Make sure all items are labeled with your child's name to avoid confusion or loss.
• Emergency Contacts: Although the camp will likely have forms for this information, make sure your child knows who to contact in case of an emergency. It’s always helpful to have them prepared and learn to take on this type of responsibility. 

Emotional Preparation:

• Talk About Expectations: Discuss what a typical day at camp will look like, including the activities they'll participate in and the friends they might make.
• Address Any Concerns: If your child expresses worries or fears about attending camp, listen to them without judgment and reassure them that it's normal to feel nervous. Offer solutions or coping strategies if they're anxious about specific situations.
• Build Excitement: Focus on the positive aspects of camp, such as fun activities, new experiences, and opportunities to learn and grow.
• Practice Independence: Encourage your child to take on age-appropriate responsibilities, such as getting dressed, packing their bag, and following camp rules.

By preparing your child practically and emotionally for summer camp, you can help them feel confident and excited about their new adventures.

Searching for the right summer camp for your child? 

Join us this summer at Lake Cypress Summer Camp at Windermere Preparatory School for a fun-filled summer vacation! Our camp offers a variety of activities for children ages five through fourteen with each day structured, but varied. Activities include swimming, martial arts, giant obstacle courses, speciality camp rooms, and much more. 

With age-appropriate activities, low student-to-staff ratios, and flexible scheduling, our camp is full of can’t-miss action!

Spaces are filling up fast—Register today to reserve a spot for your child.