Your Child’s First Camping Experience -Make It a Good One

Making your child’s first trip to camp one he will treasure can be quite a challenge. You want him to enjoy himself and look forward to next year yet this is a brand new experience for him. How can you assure he will have fun and you won’t worry yourself silly while he is away? Here are some tips for getting off to a good start.

The first thing to do is to make sure your child really wants to go. If he is attending because it’s what mom and dad want and he has no real interest, chances are he won’t enjoy himself. On the other hand some hesitation is normal the first time. If your child is adamant about not wanting to go, don’t send him. There’s always next year.

Starting out with a small local camp can be a good choice. If your child is involved in 4-H or Scouts they often have summer camps or weekend overnighters. Your little camper may feel more comfortable around people he knows. Churches often have camps for kids too. Other good

options are local specialty camps such as baseball camp, soccer or music camp.

If you're not sure your child is ready for overnight camping do a trial run. Get together with some friends and arrange an overnight sleepover. You can get an idea from this as to how your child will react to being away from home at night. If you have to go get him or her in the middle of the night you might want to consider a day camp.

Having a buddy to go with can make a difference to some children, especially if they will not know anyone else there at the camp. Some camps will let friends bunk together in the same cabin, but they need to know also that their friend may have different interests and won¹’ be with them all the time.

Plan ahead for fun and make things easy for the camper. Pack things like disposable cameras, pre-stamped postcards or envelopes and even a favorite stuffed animal. Encourage them to record their week through pictures and notes to mom and dad back home.

But most importantly make sure your child knows you will be there if he needs you. Check with the camp on its policy for allowing children to use the phone and how they handle homesickness. Offer to provide a prepaid phone card if necessary. Most camps do a great job of helping kids get over those homesick moments. By helping your child to enjoy and get the most out of his first camp experience, you are paving the way for years of summer fun.