Preparing for Camp

Most camps will provide you with a list of things you’ll need to bring and some suggested items. But if it’s the first time away at camp, especially a sleepover camp, a little mental preparation needs to go into getting ready.

Give your child a sense of independence. Let them try packing their camp supplies themselves and do chores around the house.

Have sleepovers at a friend or relatives’ house. Even though these are familiar places, they are still not at home and can be useful practice for your child being away at camp. 

Assure children that camp is a safe and fun place to be. Give them realistic expectations about what kind of fun they will have and let them know that at the end of the week you will be excited to hear all about it. 

A great resource on tips for parents and campers on how to prepare for camp is at:
http://www.ourkids.net/camp/preparing-for-camp.php