5 Tips to prepare your kid for summer camp
theCityMoms use affiliate links to support our staff and work through commissions, but our opinions are our own. We only share items we use and love.
We know…It felt like summer would never arrive. But you did your due diligence, found a summer camp program for your kiddo, and now you’re just weeks away from sending them off.
Whether they’re headed to an overnight option or a don’t-miss day camp, you know sharing is caring, so we’re spilling our best tips for prepping your kid for summer camp.
5 tips to prepare your kid for summer camp:
1. Schedule time with your doctor
Some camps require a physical on file, signed medical forms from your physician, and/or up-to-date records. Make time now to get this checked off your list and any prescriptions refilled they may need.
2. Prep the pack list
Save yourself the heartache and start stocking up on the list now, even asking your camper to help (“My daughter loves being involved with her camp list and it gets her excited to go!” says CityMom Michelle). Don’t have time to shop? Instacart that s*%t mama. It’s a lifesaver. Musts: Spare change of clothes, sunscreen, hat, and a refillable water bottle.
3. Label literally everything
No really. You never realize that “everyone” has the same reusable lunchbox/backpack/water shoes until you’ve tried sifting thru hundreds of leftover goods from campers, so label everything that goes to camp with your kiddo. We’re obsessed with these waterproof labels from Mabel’s Labels, plus they are dishwasher + laundry safe.
*Pssst…right now Mabel’s Labels is having a sale! Get 20% off summer camp labels through May 31st!
KIDS TOO OLD FOR CAMP?
Indy Parks is hiring for the summer! They offer training, bonuses, and a variety of opportunities.
4. Do a run thru
Most camps run a very regimented schedule, which means being on time at dropoff and pickup is crucial. Doing a run thru of your new camp schedule can help everyone in the fam prep as needed and work out any kinks.
5. Allow time to adjust
Like any new situation, kids can struggle with change. Stay encouraging and positive as they acclimate to the new camp experience - maybe even reinforcing the fun at pickup (“Tell me your favorite activities today!”). If a few weeks go by and your kiddo is still show signs of struggle, ask camp staff for suggestions or help.
CityKid Harris is realllllly getting into his summer camps packing!
BONUS TIPS! We asked our friends at Indy Parks and Recreation for a couple of their favorite tips and boy did they deliver:
Dress kids in comfortable play clothes knowing our camps are super fun, and campers spend a lot of time exploring our outdoor spaces.
Make sure your emergency contact info and child-specific info is updated. Typically, parents/guardians fill out paperwork months before day camps begin. We encourage them to send updates by the first day of camp to make sure Indy Parks has the correct info.
