Summer camps offer a world of opportunities for kids to learn, grow and make lifelong memories. It is a wonderful opportunity for kids to continue to build and practice using social skills and critical thinking skills.

Many parents send their kids to camp because camps provide enrichment. But camps also help building relationships, provide kids an opportunity to learn about themselves and, of course, try new things. It is also a terrific way to learn skills outside of the classroom and reduce the dreaded summer skill loss.

Margo Spurgeon, director of reach marketing at Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, says, “The number one reason kids should go to camp is to find out who they are. Unplugging from the stresses of school and everyday life, detoxing from scrolling on a screen, and distancing themselves from the social media algorithms, are elements of camp that give kids the margin and opportunity to understand who they are and how they can impact and interact with the world around them.”

Let’s look at different types of camps, appropriate ages for each, essential factors to consider when choosing the ideal camp for your child, and what steps to take to prep your kids for their camp experience.

DAY CAMPS: THE GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE

Day camps provide a fantastic introduction to the summer camp experience. Typically designed for children aged 5 to 12, day camps offer a diverse range of activities, from arts and crafts to sports to outdoor adventures. Elise Solomon, Taft Museum of Art, says that day camps are great for kids of all ages. These camps allow kids to enjoy activities or topics of interest or explore new activities. They also allow kids to make new friends while returning home each evening, fostering a sense of independence without the overnight stay.

OVERNIGHT CAMPS: A TASTE OF INDEPENDENCE

Around the age of 8 to 14, children may be ready for the next step – overnight camps. These camps offer a more immersive experience, with a variety of activities, team-building exercises and the opportunity to sleep away from home. Overnight camps provide a unique chance for personal growth, resilience, and self-reliance as children learn to navigate life outside their familiar surroundings. Joel, 13 years old, says that he enjoyed overnight camp because, “it’s a break from my parents, I make new friends, I get to choose what I want to eat and be responsible for myself. I have made great memories.”

He also shares that his experience with the overnight camp provided him with a new self-confidence.

SLEEPOVER CAMPS: BONDS AND LIFELONG MEMORIES

Typically, suitable for children aged 10 and older, sleepover camps are the pinnacle of summer camp experiences. With longer durations, these camps allow kids to forge deep connections with peers, instructors and nature. Sleepover camps often focus on building life skills, fostering leadership and creating lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

JJ, 12 years old, shares that his favorite part of sleepover camp includes, “getting out of the house and meeting new kids, playing gaga ball, and the massive capture the flag game” he has played the last day of camp. He also shares that he enjoys the independence and the memories he has made.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

Trust your gut when researching camps and keep these all-important aspects in mind:

• Safety First: Ensure the camp has proper safety measures, certified staff and a clean environment.
• Activities and Interests: Consider your child’s hobbies and interests when choosing a camp. Look for a diverse range of activities to keep them actively engaged.
• Staff-to-Child Ratio: A low staff-to-child ratio ensures personalized attention and a safer environment.
• Accommodations: For overnight camps, check the accommodations to ensure they meet your child’s comfort level.
• Communication: Choose a camp that maintains open communication with parents, providing updates and addressing concerns promptly.

SHOULD I FORCE MY KID TO GO TO CAMP?

Most parents do not have to force their kids to go to camp. Kids will often ask to attend a camp or two, however, some kids are not ready or may feel anxious to move beyond a day camp or an overnight camp. Sit down and talk about it with your kids to gauge their comfort levels. Making kids feel comfortable about going to camp involves addressing their concerns, building anticipation and fostering a positive mindset.

INVOLVE YOUR CHILD IN THE DECISION

Discuss the camp options together. Review fliers or websites together. Consider their interests and preferences when choosing a camp. Empower them by making them feel part of the decision-making process.

Summer camps play a crucial role in a child’s development, offering a blend of fun, learning, and personal growth. By taking a proactive and supportive approach, you can help your child feel more comfortable  and excited about their upcoming camp experience. By considering the appropriate age for several types of camps and evaluating key factors when making your decision, you can ensure your child has a memorable and enriching summer camp experience. Happy camping!

DISCOVER MORE PARENTING STORIES

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10 Snow Day Activities to Try

1. Make a snow angel of course! My son, who’s 4, says that he’s no good at making them and that it’s just a big hole in the snow when he tries. So, we are going to try to perfect it! All over our 2 acres of flat land that should be (hopefully) covered in a good layer of snow.
2. Ice bowl luminaries. Using a set of flexible nesting bowls, you’ll freeze water between them overnight. Once it’s frozen, pop it out, set it on the ground upside down and put either a glow stick or battery operated tea light under it.
3. Trampoline + Snow = Instant Fort! Don’t go bouncing the snow away just yet, see if you can pile it up around the sides on the ground and crawl UNDER the trampoline for a snow fort fun day! If you don’t have a trampoline, use two chairs, a mop, a broom and a sheet. Set the two chairs apart from each other but facing. Put the mop and broom across the two chairs. Lay a sheet over them. Wait for it to snow!
4. Snowball fight! Grab your ice cream scooper and start making some snowballs. This is a fast and fun way to make them. Set some rules before they start pounding each other in the face, though.
5. Don’t forget about Frosty. Kids love making snowmen and a good dusting of snow could be all that you need to make even a little one — which is best for little kids and can be set upon the porch for all to see.
6. Snow maze. Use your feet or a shovel and make a maze in the snow for the kids to follow. One foot off the path and they’re out! It just takes a little bit of thinking on the parents’ part.
7. Hide and seek toys. The night before a big snow, set several plastic toys out in the yard. Hopefully, you’ll get enough snow during the night to cover them up. The kids will have fun seeking them out!
8. Frozen outdoor decor. In an ice tray, freeze some berries, flowers and other natural items in the different sections with water. Be sure to have a piece of string set inside each section and hanging over the edge so that when you pop out the decorative cubes, you’ll have something to hang them by.
9. Colorful Ice Spheres. Here’s another decorative craft you can do with the kids. Fill a balloon with water and a few drops of food coloring. Freeze it. Once frozen solid, take it outside. Cut away the balloon and place in the yard.
10. Snow canvases. Fill condiment squirt bottles up with water and food coloring. Give them to the kids and have them squirt paint masterpieces into the snow! My oldest, who’s 8, loves painting and drawing. So, it’s natural for her to really love this fun activity, too.

There are really so many ways to have a fun and somewhat crafty day in the snow. These are just some of our favorite things!

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Tali Cornblath, assistant director at Falcon Camp, a sleep-away camp located in Carrollton, Oh, gives answers to those real-life questions we have.

Q: What will my kids learn/take away at camp?

A: It’s hard to condense what a child learns at camp into one answer. The most common answer we hear from Falcon parents is independence. Providing an outlet for your child to make their own decisions, fold their clothes and live for a bit without parents is hugely beneficial. Kids also get the opportunity to decide who to be at camp since they are meeting a whole new group of people; they often learn a lot about themselves and settle into their changing personalities. We also hear a lot about improved social skills, a greater sense of initiative and responsibility and leadership.

Q: How do I know if my kids are ready for sleepaway camp?

A: If you have a typically developing child over about the age of 8, they are almost definitely ready for camp, and will grow from the experience. There are a few important developmental skills that are usually necessary at most camps. Those include toileting and showering on their own, sleeping in their own bed, getting dressed and undressed on their own, and being able to follow two or three step instructions. Additionally, some of the responsibility for that question falls on the parent – the way you prepare your child for sleepaway camp will impact their readiness. If you tell your chil that you will pick them up if they are homesick, what they will hear is that you don’t think they are ready and they can’t do it. However, if you are positive about all the fun they will have, and reiterate that while there may be some challenges, you know that they can handle it, they are much more likely to be ready for a sleepaway experience.

Q: If there is an emergency, what are the protocols?

A: If there is an emergency, we rely on our training and previously determined protocols. In general, the protocols include ensuring the safety of people involved in the emergency as well as others, communicating with parents/guardians of involved campers, and debriefing after the fact to ensure the best possible response.

Q: If something unexpected goes wrong at overnight camp, (toilet overflows, AC goes out, etc.) generally what would happen?

A: Again, there are a lot of unexpected possibilities – and the truth is, something unexpected happens pretty close to every day! If a toilet overflows, we’re going to plunge it. Many unexpected things are handled quickly by a Falcon staff member and without need for further involvement. We also have a maintenance staff who are made aware of more complicated issues.

Q: If my kid begins to get worried or scared, how do camps handle homesickness?

A: I can’t speak for all camps, but I am happy to share what generally happens at Falcon Camp. Because we have a high staff:camper ratio, we are usually aware of issues like homesickness very quickly. Our staff addresses it at first. Our general process is to speak with and acknowledge a camper’s feelings about homesickness, and then redirect and engage them in a fun camp activity. While that may sound harsh, the truth is that downtime is the greatest cause of homesickness, and when we can get campers involved in camp they are far less homesick.

Q: What are some fun activities kids get to do at overnight camps? Can they choose?

A: Different camps operate in different ways; some have scheduled activities like school, others allow kids to choose what they want to do each day. Some create schedules around the camper’s choice. There are so many different types of camps out there now that you can probably find a camp for almost any hobby! Is your child interested in learning how to animate? There are computer camps! How about a sport? There are camps that focus on sports in general or a specific sport, like soccer or tennis. A more traditional camp will offer a wider variety of activities, and these can include archery, riflery, swimming, sailing, nature study, rock climbing, horseback riding, drama, music and tons more! If there is something specific you are looking for, definitely look at a camp’s website or reach out to a director! Even if their camp doesn’t offer it, they may know someone who does.

Q: My kid doesn’t really tell me about his day at school; it’s hard to get him to express himself. What are some ways I can ask my kid if he is enjoying camp?

A: This is a question that may differ from camper to camper, but instead of asking your camper about their feelings, it might be more successful to ask them about their friends, activities, or daily routine. The way they describe what they do every day will give some insight into their enjoyment of camp. This question also differs for day and overnight camps.

Q: Will some camps have a nurse on the premises in case something goes wrong?

A: If an overnight camp is American Camp Association-accredited (as a side note, I highly recommend you begin your camp search by looking at ACA, since camps that are ACA accredited have documented and proven that they meet hundreds of standards focused on the safety and well-being of your children), they are required to have a nurse on-site at least once per day. Many camps have someone on-site at all times, like we do at Falcon, while others may have a “visiting nurse” system. The standards are also different for day camps. This is a great question to ask a director as an initial screening tool!

Q: What is the best way I can get in touch with my kids?

A: Different camps use different methods, so this is something to inquire about before you choose. Many traditional overnight camps rely on snail-mail only. Some use a one-way or two-way email system (if it’s one way, you’ll be able to email your child but they will have to write letters in return). Camps have a variety of different policies on phone calls and cell phones; at some camps, your camper will be able to call home a couple times a week, or may even be allowed to bring their phone. Other camps have fairly strict no phone call policies, and/or don’t allow cell phones. If you are a parent who is not comfortable if you can’t speak to your child every day, those camps are probably not right for you. I recommend asking camps their approach, and also ask them why – they usually have a good reason for whatever method they’ve chosen.

Q: Is there anything else you can tell me to help ease my mind while my kids are away from me for a day or sleepaway camp?

A: An overnight camp is an incredibly valuable experience for kids. It helps them feel confident in themselves, increases their independence, and teaches them how to live in a community, all while having a great time! We understand that we are responsible for the most important things in the world: people’s children. We don’t take this responsibility lightly. The amount of preparation that goes into ensuring that your child is safe, cared for, and enjoying themselves is extensive. That being said, you need to feel comfortable with the people who are taking care of your child.

The post Real Answers to Your Summer Camp “What Ifs?” appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

During chilly outings, huddle around the fire pit and enjoy a warm cup of cocoa. The Acres is located at 9941 Reading Road in Cincinnati; head to acrescincinnati.com or call 513-733-1100 for more information.

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The ice rink features Bumper and Skating sessions for $15 or skating alone for $10. Children ages 4 and younger are free and do not need to be included when you reserve a session. Anyone age 5 or older must have a paid admission to enter even if they are not participating in skating. When Bumpers and Skating is in session, the ice will be divided into two sections with skating on one side and bumper cars on the other. The rink operates seven days a week with hours and session type varying. Be sure to review all of site’s posted frequently asked questions before booking!

Book online at myfountainsquare.com/ice-rink. The address for Fountain Square is 520 Vine St., Cincinnati. All reservations are nonrefundable.

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Be Open

Our natural reaction may be to avoid talking about any disabilities a child may have, but it is better to address any questions or concerns beforehand so everyone is more comfortable and knows what to expect. Kerbe Shephard, OTR/L, occupational therapist and local mom who gave birth last summer to a baby girl with Down Syndrome — she named her “Fiona” after the Cincinnati Zoo hippo that played a special role in her child’s birth story — explains that prior to playdates, she explains her baby’s special needs to her 4-year-old son, Bryce.

“I am always happy to answer questions about my daughter’s Down Syndrome diagnosis, but I usually don’t communicate about it just for fun,” Shephard says. “My belief is she is who she is and is loveable anyway! As she gets older, I’m sure this will change, as play skills will likely be underdeveloped compared to peers.”

Talk to your children openly about differences they may have with their friends. Explain that just because others may seem different or express their joy differently, it doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy playdates or making new friends as well. Check in with the other parents prior to the playdate about whether there are any food allergies or restrictions.

Be Patient

Try to understand that kids may have different reactions to situations and things may not go exactly as expected, and that it may take some time for kids with special needs to warm up to the situation. Some children with special needs may prefer to participate in parallel play — when kids play beside each other, but do not interact with one another.

Be Inclusive and Understanding

It is also important to note that kids with disabilities or special needs are just like anyone else; they want to interact with friends and be loved and appreciated.

“I have always pointed out someone with an obvious special ability to my kiddos, and explained how neat it is that they have their unique ability,” says Holly Young, owner of Puzzle Pieces – A Sensory Sensation in Montgomery and mom of four including twins, one who is diagnosed with Autism.

“I talk about how important it is to be friendly and helpful, and to also treat others as they would anyone else — with respect and kindness,” she continues.

Parenting is not easy and we all struggle with different challenges when it comes to our children. Ask the parent if they need help with anything prior to the playdate.

“Asking what they may need ahead of time or just being observant to their struggles,” says Young.

Be patient and understanding. The other parent may be over whelmed or tired, and it may have been challenging to get there.

LOCAL PLAY SPOTS FOR ALL KIDS

Cincinnati Art Museum Sensory Saturdays
953 Eden Park Drive, Cincinnati, Oh
513-721-2787; cincinnatiartmuseum.org
Fourth Saturdays, 9:30 – 11 a.m.; designed for families with kids who have autism or other developmental disabilities to explore the museum’s galleries in a less crowded environment.

Cyclones
Heritage Bank Center, 100 Broadway, Cincinnati, Oh
513-421-7825; cycloneshockey.com
Offers sensory games throughout the season that have decreased auditory and visual stimulation for those who have sensory sensitivities.

Cody Clark Magic
502-523-7422; codyclarkmagic.com
Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Cody Clark now creates a truly unique style of magic by blending stories with a passion for theatre, stand-up comedy, country music and autism advocacy. He performs sensory-friendly magic shows for students, library patrons, companies, community parties and more.

Sensory Playgrounds

AJ Jolly Park; 1501 Race Track Road, Alexandria, Ky
859-635-4423; campbellcountyky.gov
AJ Jolly now has a playground designed for kids with all abilities located at 1501 Race Track Road in Alexandria with equipment for children of all abilities, ages 5 to 12 featuring a main play structure with two slides, a transfer station and sensory components. 

Common Ground Playground at Makino Park; 6100 Kopfler Court, Mason, Oh
masonparksfoundation.org/projects/common-ground
This all-inclusive playground is designed to encourage kids and grown-ups of all abilities to play together helping to build confidence, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships and motor skills.

West Fork Playground; 4764 W Fork Rd, Cincinnati, Oh
513-574-8832; greentwp.org/west-fork-park
Accessibility to all ages and abilities with zones that have been purposefully planned and built to keep the attention of kids for longer than 30 minutes – and to meet the needs of all children.

Inwood Park Playground; 2308 Vine St, Cincinnati, Oh
513-357-2604; cincinnati-oh.gov/cincyparks/visit-a-park/find-a-parkfacility/inwood-park
Located at the upper part of the park on Wellington Place, adjacent to the recently constructed shelter, parking lot, and loop walkway, this park serves children of all ages featuring two “tot”-sized houses with elements for small children, musical instruments, colorful ground-level panels, and a variety of swing types including a fully accessible “ADA” swing.

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Most classes have a cap of 30 students, so be sure to call ahead for availability before heading out. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum is located at 1763 Hamilton-Cleves Road in Hamilton; 513-868-1234. Learn more at pyramidhill.org.

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Where did this delightful scavenger game derive? Historians point to Germany and the 16th century. It is said that when German settlers came to the United Stated they brought with them the “Easter Hare,” which Americans later adopted. History also speaks to the Protestant reformer Martin Luther who organized egg hunts for his congregation; men would hide eggs for the women and children to find. Nonetheless, Easter egg hunts today are a family-favorite springtime event. They are a joyous occasion where kids can run, play and engage in mystical fun while using critical thinking skills. What’s more, it’s quite easy to find many opportunities to participate in an Easter egg hunt near you this April! 

Here is a list of the best Easter egg hunts throughout Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky to enjoy with the family – plus they are FREE or low cost. Happy hunting! 

Ohio                

Egg-Splorers Contest 2022 and Hoppin’ Egg Hunt; 6-Fairfield Parks, Fairfield, Oh; 513-867-5348; fairfield-city.org
Now – Sunday, April 10, at 8 a.m.; search for six large wooden Easter eggs in six of Fairfield’s 29 parks. Take a fun photo by each of the eggs, e-mail the photos to mjmcgraw@fairfieldoh.gov; first 50 winners (must send photos with all six eggs) will win a fabulous prize to be picked up at the Fairfield Community Arts Center! The HOPPIN’ Easter Egg Hunt is Saturday, April 9 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Fairfield Greens North Trace (2605 Augusta Blvd.). Collect eggs in designated areas; for ages 2 – 4 years old,  5 – 7 years old and 8 – 10 years old.      

Cincinnati Fire Museum Easter Egg Hunt; 315 W. Court St., Cincinnati, Oh; 513-621-5553   
Saturday, April 9, 9 – 10:30 a.m.; a fun morning of hunting for Easter eggs amongst CFM’s two floors of history exhibits plus take a selfie with the Easter Bunny; tickets $10 per person/all ages; ages one and younger are free.                     

Sharonville Egg-cellent Adventure; 10990 Thornview Drive, Sharonville, Oh; 513-563-1144; facebook.com/SharonvilleParksRec
Monday, April 11 – April 14, 12 – 3 p.m.; go on a scavenger hunt again! Be on the lookout on their Facebook page for clues for the park’s hidden golden eggs. Find one and return it back to the Community Center for a special Easter treat!                                               

Liberty Township Egg Hunt; 6757 Yankee Road, Liberty, Oh; 513-644-0900; liberty-township.com/243/Township-Events
Saturday, April 16, from 10 – 11:30 a.m.                 

Easter Celebration at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden; 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, Oh; 513-281-4700; cincinnatizoo.org/events/easter-celebration
Saturday, April 16, from 12 – 5 p.m.; features animals receiving Easter-themed enrichment and a Find the Fiona Scavenger Hunt; Treat Stations will be on-site plus kids can meet and greet the Easter Bunny from 12 – 5 p.m.

Washington Park Easter Egg Hunt; 1230 Elm St., Cincinnati, Oh; 513-621-4400; washingtonpark.org/series/egg-hunt-2
Saturday April 16 & Sunday April 17, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.; a two-day event! Check-in at Washington Park’s Porch, pick-up a scavenger hunt card and crayon and GO! Adventure through the park to find all the hidden eggs shown on your scavenger hunt card; find all the eggs and return to The Porch to collect your Egg Hunt treats; register in advance.

Kentucky

Independence Egg Hunt; Memorial Park, 2001 Jackwoods Pkwy., Independence, Ky; 859-356-5302; cityofindependence.org/Default.asp
Saturday, April 9, beginning at 11 a.m.

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site Easter Egg Hunt; 3380 Beaver Road, Union, Ky; 859-384-3522
Saturday, April 16, from 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.; bring your best egg collecting basket! Meet at the Mastodon Shelter and go! Turn eggs in for candy or find a golden egg for a bonus prize.

FIND MORE THINGS TO DO HERE!

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Here are some great talking points you can share and explain to him about what he can expect at day camp. Keep the door open for him to ask questions galore, and let him express his feelings and feedback. Lastly, reassure him that he WILL have a lot of fun, and you are just as excited as he is.

What Traditional Day Camp is Like

It will kind of feel like a school day— I wave goodbye in the morning, then you will go play and learn with new and maybe some familiar friends. Next, there will be a time for snack and lunch, more play and learning, then I will pick you up. If you aren’t ready for an all-day camp, we can try half-day. You like to play outside with your friends, right? You will get to do that at camp! After I pick you up, you can tell me all about your day.

PARENTS: It’s important to remind your children daily that you will be picking them up and dropping them off so that they know what to expect, and it helps them to feel safe.

“When children know what the schedule is it helps them to feel more secure,” says Tisha Luthy, nature preschool director and director of preschool CincyNature Summer Camps.

Day Camps You Can Choose From

From sports camps and art camps to STEM-based camps, there are all kinds of camps for you to choose from. You can try new sports, swimming, arts and music at places near home like the YMCA or even at a new school. The STEM camps are cool because you get to act like a scientist, engineer or even a mathematician.  If you want to do a nature camp, you can explore creepy crawlies in the creek, fish, shoot a bow and arrow and make cool nature crafts. At sports camps, you can play the sport you love. If you like basketball, for example, you will get to do fun activities that teach you everything you need to know to be really good at it. Trying a new craft activity or learning a new camp song can also be so much fun!

PARENTS: You can begin telling your kids about camp by reading the description of the camp to them, says Luthy. You want to make sure it is something they are definitely excited about. Afterall, camp should be fun.

“If a child has never gone to camp before, after reading the description to them, go over the schedule of drop off, packing a lunch and pick up,” she continues. “The more your child knows about the camp, the schedule and the expectations, the more secure they’ll feel.”

Try Something New

Did you ever want to try horseback riding? Paddling a canoe across the lake? Learn to survive in the woods? Conquer a ropes course? There are a lot of fun adventures if you want to learn something new.

PARENTS: Excitement is important for them. Luthy recommends mentioning how excited you are after their first day and be all ears. Also let them know it is OK to feel a little nervous to try something new.

“It’s always helpful to remind kids that it’s okay to feel their emotions and it’s okay to be nervous before starting something new,” emphasizes Luthy. “Encourage them to ask you any questions or talk about their feelings. And, of course, making sure your child gets a good night’s rest before camp is really important and helps to set them up for a good day!”

If You Miss Home

Let’s make a calendar together that shows what activities you will be doing every day. I’m so excited you get to go to camp, I promise you will have a lot of fun, and before you know it, I will be there to pick you up. If you feel like you need help, ask your nice counselor. That’s what they are there for! You can tell me all about it when you get home!

What to Bring With You

Depending on the camp activities you will be doing, we need to make a list of things you will need to bring. You’re going to need a nice, comfortable backpack, too.

PARENTS: Prior to going to camp, get your camper really pumped up by taking him to the store prior to camp to pick out some special items he will need such as a new water bottle or backpack, suggests Luthy.

“Even taking your child with you to the grocery store to pick out food to pack for lunches can help a child get excited about camp,” she continues.

Talking to Your Counselors

If you ever need anything, you can ask your camp counselors anything you like. They are there to help and make sure you are having fun. A lot of kids are nervous on their first day and that’s normal. If you have to use the restroom, you need water or don’t understand an activity, your counselors want you to tell them. But if there is a time where you really aren’t feeling good or you really have to come home, have them call me. If there is ever an emergency or something is wrong, tell your camp counselor right away.

PARENTS: Always remind your kids that the counselors have your phone number in case anything happens and you will be called and come get them, says Luthy.

“If the child is young, they can bring a special item with them to camp, such as a family picture or a note from a parent saying, ‘I love you and I will be back soon’” she says.

Be sure to explain that the camp counselors are there to help, just like you do.

“Let them know that counselors are there to lead the group and make sure that the children stay safe,” Luthy continues. “Giving them examples is helpful. You can say something
like, ‘If you need to use the restroom or feel sick, you can go to your counselor and let them know.’”  Other examples might be something like, ‘If you are having trouble with another child, you can ask the counselor to help you,’ or ‘If you need help with opening something in your lunch, you can ask your counselor to help.’”

Ask About Their Camp Day

PARENTS: Getting your kids to talk about their day can be hard sometimes. It helps to ask specific questions if you really want them to elaborate, says Luthy.

“Asking specific questions about camp can help your child to open up more about their experience and lead to a deeper conversation,” she continues. “Some example questions are, ‘Who did sit by at lunch?’; or ‘Did you find anything interesting on your hike?’”

Expect your busy camper to be tired at the end of the day. Let them decompress then ask some questions during your bedtime routine or even around the dinner table. You may be surprised to hear the enthusiasm about their fun day.

DAY CAMP CHECKLIST

Your child’s sense of security hinges on knowing what’s happening around him. Empower your kids by going over day camp details until they emphatically tell you they’ve got this!

_ A Change of Clothes – (In case you get wet or there is an accident.)

_ Swimming Gear – A towel, your favorite goggles, swim shoes or flip-flops and a swimsuit (if they have swimming or other cool water activities.)

_ Bug Spray – You will be outside a lot, so make sure you have your bug spray with you.

_ Sun Protection – Try and remember to put some more sunscreen on your face when you take a break! We can also pack you a nice hat to shade your face and some chapstick.

_ Toiletries – You’ll need tissues, hand sanitizer, a first aid kit and some hand wipes.

_ Water – It will be hot, so you’ll need plenty of water throughout the day!

_ Snacks and Lunch – The camp may provide this or I will everyday.

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