Sending your child to camp for the first time is a big milestone for both you and your child. Whether your camper is excited, nervous, or somewhere in between, a little preparation can go a long way in helping them feel confident and ready. At the same time, we recognize that, as a parent, this new experience can raise questions about safety, separation anxiety, and what to expect.
This guide can help ease the transition and ensure your child’s camp experience is a positive one for the whole family.
Do’s and Don’ts for Parents
Navigating the first camp experience starts with setting the right tone. Here are some essential tips to support your child and help them have a successful time at camp.
Do’s
Here are a few things you can do leading up to the first day of camp to prepare your child and help them get excited for this new adventure.
Show Excitement
Your enthusiasm sets the stage. Kids take their emotional cues from parents, so if you’re excited, they’ll likely feel that way too. Talk positively about the activities they’ll try, the friends they’ll make, and the fun they’ll have trying new things.
Encourage Your Child
Reassure them that it’s normal to feel a little nervous about trying something new. Remind them that camp is a place to explore, play, and grow. Sharing your own stories about joining a new activity can help normalize those first-day jitters.
Pack an Ample, Healthy Lunch
Make sure your child has a nutritious lunch prepared to enjoy at camp. Staying energized throughout the day helps them enjoy every activity. Double-check with the camp to make sure you’re following the lunch, beverage, and snack guidelines and allergy policies.
Communicate with the Camp
If your child has specific needs, medical, behavioral, or otherwise, make sure the staff is aware of them. Licensed camps are well-equipped to keep kids safe and supported, but the more they know ahead of time, the better they can prepare.
Know the Schedule
Familiarize yourself and your child with the daily camp schedule. Knowing what to expect from drop-off and activities to pick-up helps reduce uncertainty. Review it together so your child can start to visualize their day.
Understand Camp Policies
Review the camp policies on clothing, snacks, pick-up, and anything else that might help you and your child be prepared for their camp experience. Knowing the camp’s polices and procedures can help avoid confusion or potential disappointment.
Don’ts
Avoid doing these things, as they can make your child even more nervous and potentially set them up for a negative view of the camp experience before they even arrive.
Promise an Early Pick-Up
Even if your child seems unsure, avoid promising you’ll “come get them early” if they’re unhappy. This gives them an easy out before they’ve had a chance to adjust. Instead, encourage them to stay the whole day and try each activity before deciding how they feel.
Let Your Anxiety Show
You might be just as nervous as your child, but do your best not to show it. Keep your goodbyes short, upbeat, and confident. Your calm demeanor reassures your child that they’re safe and capable of handling the day ahead.
Forget the Benefits
It’s easy to focus on what could go wrong, but don’t lose sight of everything your child stands to gain. Camp helps kids build independence, try new activities, work with peers, and develop resilience. These experiences help them grow in ways that stick long after summer ends.
Contact Camps ‘R’ Us Today
Your child’s first camp experience should be fun, safe, and full of discovery. At Camps ‘R’ Us, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our licensed day camps offer a wide range of age-appropriate activities designed to keep kids engaged, active, and learning—all while having a blast outside.
Whether you have questions, need help preparing, or are ready to register, we’re just a call or click away. Contact us today to learn more or visit our website to explore our programs and services.
