For many families summertime means time for summer camp. Whether kids are attending day camps or sleep-over camps, preparation can make all the difference.
Most summer camps will issue a list that outlines what you should bring and what you should not bring. It should cover the basics that you will need and will have items that are specific to their type of camp. Computer camp will have different requirements than a sports camp, for example. If you contact them or check their website, you may be able to get the list early, which will allow you to do your shopping and pre-pack as much as possible.
Following are some additional ideas for things to bring, tips, and how to be prepared for both kids and adults. Some items may not be allowed at every camp, so check their instructions.
Label all clothing. Your kids may object, but they will be glad you did if another child tries to claim their favorite shirt. Try to label them in a discrete place such as the toes of socks so they aren't visible.
Be sure to pack one change of warm clothing, just in case. Same for rainwear.
Pack lots of underwear and socks. Send an extra pair of sneakers.
Sunscreen and bug spray are essential. Some camps do not allow aerosols, so look for a pump version.
Don't forget sunglasses.
Water bottles are usually a good thing to have for hikes, boating, and such.
Small clip-on battery operated fan. Camp cabins can get awfully hot.
Send along an extra pillow case or pillow. Camp bedding can be lacking and they will appreciate having their own.
Don't forget a flashlight and spare batteries. It will come in handy for late night trips to the bathroom (and for late night mischief as well).
Be sure to pack flip-flops for the showers. Camp showers aren't known for cleanliness.
Extra roll of Bathroom Tissue. Saves them the embarrassment of having to track down a counselor if they should run out in the bathroom.
Small first aid kit. Nothing fancy, just the basics for small cuts and scrapes.
If you are sending along snacks, be sure they are peanut free. Many children have peanut allergies and snacks with peanuts may be confiscated.
Pack some pre-stamped and addressed post cards or stationery so they can write home (just don't hold your breath).
Many camps have talent shows, so bring along anything you might need to enter such as a musical instrument, magic equipment, etc. (within reason.)
Glow sticks. Kids love glow sticks and they are usually available cheap at the dollar store, so bring plenty to share.
Don't forget a camera. If you don't want to risk losing a digital camera, pack one or two disposable cameras. Maybe even a disposable underwater camera for boating and such. When they return, you can have the film processed and put on a CD right away so they can share their photos on Facebook.
Kids at camp are likely to forgo basic personal grooming (especially boys). In order to encourage them, do your best to send along products that currently have a cool factor such as Axe(R) body wash. Let them pick out a new toothbrush to increase the chances they will use it. Pack it all in a cool bag so they can carry them to the showers.
Younger children may want to take along a favorite stuffed animal. Older kids may want one too, but won't want to bring it for fear of being made fun of. There are many great trendy plush items available today that older kids won't mind taking along to camp such as Uglydolls(R). They are popular with older boys in particular.
What not to pack
Many, if not most camps do not allow cell phones, iPods, and computer games.
Some camps do not allow any aerosols.
Peanuts and peanut butter are often not allowed due to allergies. Some camps also do not allow campers to bring snacks in order to assure they are eating properly.
Don't bring anything that you or your child wouldn't want to lose.
Some other tips
Before you promise your child that you'll call them everyday, be sure to check with the camp. Many do not allow phone calls. This may sound cruel and worrisome, but they know what they are doing from many years of camp experience. Phone calls can bring on or worsen home sickness.
If your child has never been away from home, arrange for them to sleep at a grandparent or aunt's house for a few nights prior to camp to become accustomed to it. You could also pitch a tent in the back yard and camp out a few nights.
Lastly, some advice on how to handle homesickness and crying. Keep busy and you won't notice how much you miss them and wait to cry until after you have left the camp. They'll be home before you know it.
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