It’s time to send your child off to camp! Whether it’s a sleepaway camp or a summer day camp, here’s a quick checklist to make sure you have it all covered!
Be sure to pack sunscreen and insect repellent. Sunscreen is an obvious choice, but the summer bugs in humid environments can be a nuisance, so prevent bites before they happen and pack bug spray. Your camp will encourage your child to reapply throughout the day.- Invest in a convenient, easy-to-hold, reusable water bottle. Be green and stay hydrated! Camp coaches/counselors will allow time for refills and will make sure that every child drinks plenty of H2O.
- Pack your child a hat – a bucket hat, a baseball hat, anything that will keep the sun off the head!
- Eating properly is crucial to keep your child energized throughout the day. Pack healthy snacks, or make sure your camp offers a healthy snack option, to keep them going on those exhausting summer days!
- Proper attire is key. Footwear – make sure your child has secure laced-up or Velcro sneakers that fit if there’s a lot of running around and appropriate socks to avoid blisters. Dressing in layers is best because sometimes the mornings are chilly yet the afternoons are hot. Lastly, pay attention to the weather and pack a waterproof jacket when necessary.
- It’s best for your child, you and your camp to be prepared in case of an emergency. Pack band-aids in your child’s backpack, just in case. Your camp will have plenty, but this reminds your child that he/she will be ok! Make sure your camp is equipped with an emergency phone number (or two!) and is notified in advance of any medical conditions your child may have. This helps them to be prepared – and you feel secure!
- Head to camp with a friend. If you enroll your child with a friend, they already they already have a connection with someone at camp, easing the transition.
- Pack according to the supply list provided. Put your child’s name on everything with a permanent marker. Pack according to what’s recommended and be careful about adding too much as it will only overburden your child.
- Know the rules of the camp – no cell phone, video games, etc.
- Bring your positive attitude! If you don’t think camp will be a positive experience for your child, neither will he/she. Remain positive, give him/her a pump up talk in the morning if nerves check in and offer encouragement and a reminder of how much fun camp is!
Dean Simpson is the Director of Coaching for Super Soccer Stars, New York City’s largest & most popular children’s soccer development program. Dean is a highly-acclaimed UEFA “A” licensed and personally hand-crafted the Super Soccer Stars curriculum upon joining the team in 2006.
