To Camp Or Not To Camp?

Every parent agonises about whether they are doing the right thing when they send their child to summer camp for the first time - or when they decide not to send their child, despite their friends doing so! Decisions are often based on the parent's own experience, rather than what is right for the child. The article below may help you to make your own decisions.

"Mom! Mom!  We saw a video and they have horseback riding, and canoeing, and the zip cord, and wall climbing!  Can I go?  Please! Please! Please!" You child came home all excited and wants to go to summer camp.  Before you decide to camp or not to camp there are some decisions to be made.

As a parent you have two main considerations with regard to summer camp. One is whether your child is ready, and the other is finding the best camp to suit your child. Most summer camps are very similar: however, the one that your child wants to attend may not be the best one. Due diligence is necessary.

Often the children are ready to go, but the parents aren't ready to let go. It is best if you personally know someone who has already attended that specific camp and can give you a personal testimony.

If your child has not been away from home for any length of time, you will all experience some separation anxiety. In some cases it might be better to send your children to a day camp the first year. Many summer camp programs offer both day and overnight camp on the same camp grounds.

The promotional videos are aimed at promoting the fun activities and new friendships. What the videos usually don't or can't explain to your child are some of the less than wonderful aspects of camp. 

Inform your children that they may not like all the food, the bunk may be uncomfortable, and that they will likely be cold at times and have sand everywhere. It's normal for children to get cold feet before leaving and then to get homesick once there. 

Try to schedule summer camp so that your child can attend with siblings or a friend. They can keep each other company and they'll be less likely to get homesick. If you schedule all of your kids during the same week, parents can have a little vacation, too. Put your child and yourself more at ease by visiting the campground. Talk to the staff.

You will be able to send mail to your kids at camp, but it is unlikely there will be much or any phone contact for the week. If your kids are still eager even after knowing that there will be things they don't like, they're probably ready to go to summer camp.

What do you know about the camp? If it sponsored by your church, you may know some of the camp staff.  YMCA and other private camps should have ample information available about their mission and values. 

Where is it located? Will you need to drive a couple of hours to drop off and pick up? Some camps offer bus service to and fro, but you will probably want to drop your child off for the week and you child will want you there. 

Consider the cost of camp. You can plan on spending at least a couple of hundred dollars per week, per child. Many summer camp programs offer scholarships and fundraising opportunities. If you can't afford camp, don't do it this year. Plan for next year and start saving.
 
You know your child best. If you truly think your child is ready for summer camp and if you found a good one that you can afford, then it's time to let them go. They'll make wonderful friendships, have a great time and will almost certainly mature a little from the experience.

Further reading:

Making the Summer Camp Decision for Your Child

Camp is for everyone

Choosing A Summer Camp

Summer Camp Safety Tips

Summer Camp Memories

Summer Camp for Any Age

Overnight Summer Camps

Traditional Summer Camp