As a parent or caregiver who has enrolled their child in summer camp, you’ve probably spent countless hours selecting a program – visiting camp fairs, browsing our search site, considering the many benefits of camp and more. Now, it’s time to make the most of all your hard work and ensure your kids are prepared to have a fantastic summer camp experience!

Create positive, realistic expectations

If your kid is enrolled in a camp that focuses on one of their niche interests, they may already be bursting with excitement at the chance to learn a new skill or hone an existing one. In order to make sure the camp lives up to their expectations, talk with them beforehand about what it will be like and what goals they can expect to meet. This will look different depending on the age of your child. Younger kids may be excited by the chance to meet new friends that are interested in the same things they are. Older kids may have more specific goals about a skill they’d like to accomplish or learn.

Encourage your child to try new experiences

Summer camps offer so many wonderful opportunities. Among them is the chance for your child to try something new. It’s a great way for them to learn or build skills in a low-pressure environment, where there’s no risk of getting a poor grade. The open, supportive environment of summer camp encourages kids to go out of their comfort zone and take risks that build their resilience and confidence.

Talk about safety ahead of time

Have a communication plan with your child in the event of an emergency situation. If your child has allergies or special needs and is able to communicate with program leaders and counselors, consider practicing with them how to speak up to ensure their needs are met. It may also be beneficial to talk about stranger safety at pickup time and basic first aid.

Set up your family up for success

For day camps, making mornings run smoothly means that kiddos arrive to camp feeling relaxed, confident and ready for a day of learning and fun. Have clothes and supplies ready the night before so your camper is fully prepared! And make sure you have a plan to get to camp each day, whether that’s checking the bus schedules or making carpool arrangements with another parent/caregiver. Some camps have transportation help available, so be sure to check with your specific program when enrolling if this is something you need.

For kiddos heading to overnight camps, packing at least a couple days before can be helpful to make the process feel less stressful or rushed. Also make sure to confirm the transportation options and schedule ahead of time so you have a plan in place for how your child is getting to a from camp.

Create a plan for support

We all hope kids have the experience of their dreams at summer camp. But sometimes, kids can feel overwhelmed by the new experience or the change in routine. It’s important to realize that this doesn’t mean your child shouldn’t go to camp or that you didn’t prepare them enough. Communication is critical. Build in time each day to talk about their camp experience to help kids process what went well as well as any fears or concerns they have. If your child is nervous ahead of an overnight camp, sending something special like a letter they can re-read or a small charm that represents your love can be a way to keep that connection at camp even if you’re not able to talk every day.

With a little preparation, you are more than ready to help make this summer camp experience an unforgettable one for your child!