School’s out for the summer, and for many kids, that means camp is just around the corner.
Whether your child is a new or returning camper, sending them off to camp can bring on a mix of emotions.
To help parents prepare their child—and themselves—for that coming-of-age experience, we sat down with Karl Dietrich, MD, MPH, primary care physician and director of Cheshire Medical Center's Family Medicine Residency program.
Why is summer camp beneficial for children?
Summer camp allows kids to explore new social settings and structured activities outside of their normal school routine. Dietrich said this creates chances for kids to try new experiences and develop confidence, all within a supportive structure.
Summer day camps often follow a similar schedule to school year activities, so kids can participate in age-appropriate camps without much additional preparation needed from their parents, Dietrich said. For older children, overnight camps can be opportunities for them to explore their independence.
How can parents prepare their child for summer camp?
Parents should talk with their children in advance of the camp about what to expect, what the schedule looks like and how it may be different from normal school days, according to Dietrich. It can also be helpful, he said, for parents to review the planned camp activities so their child knows what to expect when they arrive.
Additionally, parents should clearly communicate their pick-up and drop-off plans to help their child prepare.
How can parents prepare themselves for overnight camp?
For many families, it can be helpful to have a trial run experience—such as having a sleepover for one to two nights—to make sure everyone is comfortable before committing to a longer overnight experience.
“I encourage parents to talk to their kids about what could be challenging and how to help them feel supported, including what they could bring from home to help them feel more comfortable ... ,” Dietrich said. “Camps are used to this issue and help support homesick kids all the time.”