Hey, Camp Folks!

When’s the best time to start planning for next year's summer camp season? RIGHT NOW! That may sound a little too ahead of the game for some of you, but this tactic works great thanks to its ‘top of mind’ benefit. After all, everything is fresh in your camper’s head right now and you can see for yourself the condition certain items are in WHILE you’re unpacking.

Find out what worked well and what didn’t. What needs repair or what needs to be replaced during the process of unpacking and set yourself up for success in next year’s summer camp season RIGHT NOW!

Where to Begin…

Start by reviewing your child's packing list. Did they bring back everything they took to camp? If any items are missing, it's wise to reach out to the camp to inquire if they might have them in their lost and found.

…On to Apparel

Next, let's assess the camp clothing your child brought home. Sometimes you can save these clothes for next year's camp adventure, but if they've outgrown the clothes or you no longer need them, consider donating them, passing them down to a younger sibling, or, if they're beyond repair, bid them farewell.

Clear the Gear.

Now, it’s time to inspect the camp gear. Check for broken or damaged items, such as flashlights or fans. Doing this will identify gear that needs replacing for the upcoming camp season. Why wait until spring when you can take advantage of end-of-season sales and secure high-quality products for your camper?

Straight from the Camper’s Mouth!

Engage your kids in a conversation about their summer camp experience while the memories are still fresh. Ask them about the gear they used—what worked and what didn't? Was the sleeping bag warm enough, or did it make them feel like they were roasting in a bonfire? Maybe the backpack was too small to fit all their essentials.

Gather this feedback and use it to make informed choices when purchasing new gear for next year. Some parents take notes to use the following year while some take advantage of end-of-season sales and stock up on what their camper will need ahead of time.

A Method to the Unpacking Madness:

Your next step in the unpacking process is to divide items into two groups: those to store away until next year and those to use up now.

Items to Use up Now

Use up any liquid toiletries, like sunblock and bug repellent, this summer, as their effectiveness may diminish over time.

Items to Store Away

For the items to be stored away, remove the batteries from any battery-operated devices. And when it comes to storing your camp trunk or duffel, choose a location wisely. If storing in a garage or basement, ensure it's off the ground to protect it from the cold concrete floors that can slowly damage the trunk over time. Consider using a Moso Air Purifying Bag to ward off moisture and mildew and keep things smelling fresh.

 

I hope these tips help you navigate the post-summer camp season with ease and make next year's camp prep a fraction of the work! Thanks for reading today's Blog post and, as always, Happy Camping!

 

- John

Greetings, Camp Parents!

The anticipation builds and hearts race with excitement as the parents arrive and catch a glimpse of their young adventurer rushing over with arms outstretched and wearing a giant smile. Tears of joy flow freely as the stories, laughter, and tight hugs spill over in a frenzied moment that lasts an eternity. In that precious moment, the bond between parent and child is strengthened and the memories of summer camp are etched in their hearts forever.

Just as important as Opening and Visiting Day, Closing Day is a quintessential part of the summer camp experience.

Closing Day Tips and Pointers

Let’s review some valuable insights from 'The Summer Camp Handbook' by camp experts Chris Thurber and Jon Malinowski. Here are four essential tips to ensure a successful and meaningful conclusion to your child's camp adventure:

Punctuality is Key

As you wake up on Closing Day, your heart is filled with anticipation for the long-awaited reunion with your child. We know this date has been circled on your calendar for quite some time. To make the most of this special day, we recommend providing a flexible arrival window instead of a specific hour.

Allow your child ample time to bid farewell to friends and participate in any final camp activities. Their goodbye hugs and last-minute adventures deserve to be cherished without feeling rushed.

Tasks and Moments

Closing Day brings administrative chores, like closing accounts and checking with the medical staff. Take the time to navigate through the lost-and-found items to ensure nothing is left behind. This is also the perfect time for your child to proudly share their camp experiences, take you on a tour of the campgrounds, and introduce their newfound camp friends.

Embrace these moments and listen to their stories, as they reflect on the positive memories they've made. However, respect that some children may be ready to move on quickly, eager to embark on the next chapter of their journey.

Expect the Unexpected

Reactions upon reunion with parents vary greatly among campers. Some children become the "Fountain of Youth," bursting with excitement while others may wear a "Poker Face," appearing quiet and reserved. There are "Tearful Campers," who shed tears as a testament to the profound impact camp has had. And lastly, the "Sensationalists" who highlight the most dramatic moments.

Embrace the uniqueness of your child's reaction, and be prepared to adapt to their needs. You can check out a deeper breakdown of all the different camper reactions in this previous Blog post.

Insights from Cabin Leaders

 

Now, it's time to gather the wisdom from our experienced cabin leaders. These experienced adults just spent countless hours with your child and can provide valuable insights into your child's camp experience. Discover the highlights of your child's session, the challenges they faced, and their interactions with fellow campers.

Address any discipline concerns and seek recommendations for areas of growth before the next camp session. This feedback will aid in your child's ongoing personal development!

 

 

Closing Day marks the end of a transformative camp journey! Responding with empathy is key. Acknowledge your child's newfound independence, celebrate their initiative and maturity, and listen attentively to their adventure narratives. Engage them with open-ended questions that delve into the meaning behind their experiences. And be prepared for emotional ups and downs as they process the challenges and triumphs of their camp stay.

As you embrace the joy of reuniting with your child on Closing Day, relish in the incredible growth, unforgettable memories, and lasting friendships that have been forged during their time at camp. The Closing Day experience is a culmination of a transformative summer camp journey, leaving a lasting impact on both campers and parents alike. Thank you for reading, and may your child's closing moments at camp be filled with warmth and cherished memories.

 

- John

 

Hey, Camp Families!

Visiting Day is among the most emotional experiences at camp for both campers and parents. It's important to have some idea of what’s to be unexpected. As summer camp experts and authors of ‘The Summer Camp Handbook’ Dr. Chris Thurber and Dr. Jon Malinowski suggest, Visiting Day is the flip side of homesickness—it's a summer camp reunion filled with intense emotions. That's why I'm here to offer some tips and insights to help you make the most of this special day in the camp calendar!

First things first, mark your calendar and make sure you visit camp according to camp visitation guidelines, on the designated Visiting Day. Unexpected visits can disrupt the campers' sense of independence and even provoke homesickness. If you have any doubts about the appropriateness of your visit, don't hesitate to reach out to the camp director and get the green light.

 

The Varied Campers’ Reactions on Visiting Day

During Visiting Day, you may encounter a range of behaviors from your child, each expressing their unique camp experience. Let's explore a few examples:

The Fountain of Youth

These campers are bursting with excitement and want to share every detail of their camp adventures with you. From whirlwind tours to rapid-fire stories, they can't wait to show you how much fun they had. Embrace their enthusiasm and join them on this joyful journey!

The Poker Face

While these campers may seem reserved, it doesn't mean they didn't have a great time. Poker Face kids often find it difficult to say goodbye to new friends and the camp experience, leading to a quieter demeanor. Give them time, and they'll open up about their camp memories.

The Tearful Camper

Visiting Day can evoke strong emotions, and some campers may shed a few tears as they bid farewell to their summer home. It's a testament to the power of the overnight camp experience. Respect their feelings, ask if they prefer a quick departure or a longer goodbye, and offer support as they navigate their emotions.

The Sensationalist

These campers love to share their most dramatic camp stories, whether it's a thrilling adventure or a comical mishap. Listen attentively, knowing that all campers have a mix of positive and negative experiences. Get the full picture by encouraging them to share a balanced account of their camp journey.

Tips for Visiting Day at Summer Camp

Now that you're aware of the different reactions you might encounter, let's discuss some practical tips to make your visit to summer camp a successful one!

Be Punctual

Stick to your promised arrival time. Your child will be eagerly anticipating your visit; Arriving on time ensures that you don't disrupt their camp activities or keep them waiting anxiously.

Take a Tour

Your child will love to show you around camp. Supporting campers on Visiting Day is important. Let them lead the way and proudly showcase their favorite spots and activities. Remember, this is their time to shine, so keep any critical comments to yourself and focus on celebrating their achievements.

Keep an Open Mind

If you have questions or concerns about certain aspects of camp, approach the topic with curiosity and seek explanations before passing judgment. Acknowledge and praise your child's accomplishments.

Share Sad News in Person

If there's any sad news to share, such as the loss of a pet, it's best to deliver it in person. Being there to provide comfort and support during difficult times is crucial for your child. Break the news early on Visiting Day to allow ample time for conversation and to address any concerns or emotions that may arise.

Arrange Alternatives if you can't Attend

In the event that you can't attend Visiting Day, it's important to communicate with your child well in advance. While they may be disappointed, make alternative arrangements for them to enjoy the day with a friend's family. This way, they can still partake in the Visiting Day experience and create lasting memories with their camp community.

 

Remember, Visiting Day can be an emotional time for both campers and parents. You may feel compelled to offer your child a ride home, but resist it. Encourage their continued camp experience and reassure them that you'll see each other again soon. This builds their resilience and allows them to fully immerse themselves in the camp environment.

For further insights and guidance on Visiting Day and other aspects of summer camp, consider picking up a copy of 'The Summer Camp Handbook' by Chris Thurber and Jon Malinowski. Their expertise and advice will help you navigate the camp experience with confidence and make the most of your time together.

Embrace the surprises, cherish the connections, and celebrate the growth and joy that summer camp brings. And remember, your child's journey at camp is a victory in itself. Thanks for reading, and happy Visiting Day!

 

- John

 

Hey, Friendly Campers!

Summer camp is an incredible opportunity for kids to forge lasting friendships and create unforgettable memories. For some, making new friends can feel a little daunting, but fear not! Here are just a few tips and tricks to help your child achieve friendships at camp with ease.

Great Ways to Start Making Friends

From confident introductions to engaging icebreaker games and memory-boosting techniques, these strategies will empower your child to build meaningful connections and embrace the full camp experience.

The Power of Introductions

Introductions are a great way to show everyone at summer camp that you’re a nice person and looking forward to knowing them all better. Teach your child to introduce themselves by sharing their name and then ask their new acquaintance for theirs. A confident introduction conveys friendliness and establishes a positive first impression.

From there, your kid should show some interest in getting to know them. Coach your child to ask open-ended questions to spark conversation, such as, "How did you discover this camp?" or "Is this your first year here?" These initial questions show genuine interest and pave the way for meaningful connections to form.

Remembering All the New Names

Remembering names can be a challenge, but little tricks can come to the rescue to make playing the ‘name game’ much easier. Campers find it helpful to come up with a crazy sentence that uses the first letter of each person’s name. For example, if their cabin mates are Pat, Robin, Chris, Francis, and Bo, they can use the sentence "Pink Rabbits Can Fly Busses."

This playful technique is called a mnemonic device (pronounced new-mon-ick) and can be used to help solidify names in their memory, making interactions more personal and fostering a sense of belonging. Encourage your child to use these memory tools during conversations, addressing their cabin mates by name. It shows attentiveness and helps strengthen the bond among campers.

There are tons more great tips like this one for campers and parents alike in 'The Summer Camp Handbook,' a guidebook for all parts of your summer camp preparation. Check it out when you click right here.

 

Icebreakers—Fun Games to Break Down Barriers

Icebreaker games are fantastic tools to create laughter and camaraderie among campers. Have your child pick out a game or two to bring along for a fun activity, such as icebreaker questions or charades. These games provide an enjoyable platform for campers to get to know each other better, share interesting facts, and find common ground.

Personalized gear like our C&N Designer Trunks, a cool and colorful Personalized Bunk Floor Mat, or a plethora of other personalizable gear can serve as an excellent icebreaker as well. Something this cool can work as an instant conversation-starter that helps campers find common interests and forge connections from the start.

 

Making friends at summer camp is an essential part of the experience. The tips above are all ways to help your camper start making friends, but really, the experience of summer camp itself—eating together, trading stories, and sharing adventures establishes strong bonds. Make sure you send your camper off this summer with the tools to build beautiful friendships at camp. Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

 

- John

Attention, Campers and Parents!

Planning for summer camp is LOTS of work and it’s all about to pay off. Is your camper ready to embrace new friendships, plunge into exciting activities, and create memories to last a lifetime? All your effort for them to have an amazing summer camp experience culminates on Opening Day and it’s right around the corner now!  

But the journey isn't over just yet! Opening Day is filled with lots of tasks and activities to cross off the list so we've compiled six valuable tips to help you stay organized and ensure a successful Opening Day:

 

Make a Travel Plan

A little planning now will minimize problems later. Being hungry, late, or sleepy can quickly turn the excitement of opening day into stress. This is a happy day, so make a plan that allows for a snag or two. If problems do arise, don’t panic. Your positive attitude will help set the tone for your child’s experience. Here are a few ways to keep your trip smooth and stress-free:

Pad your Time

To truly make the most of opening day, it's highly recommended to add a couple of hours to your estimated travel time. By incorporating this buffer period, you'll be able to embark on a relaxed and leisurely trip, free from the pressures of rushing to reach your destination. This additional time ensures that even if unexpected delays arise, you'll still arrive at camp with plenty of time to spare.

Pressure-Free Travel

The beauty of padding your travel time is that it grants you the freedom to navigate any unforeseen obstacles with ease. Whether it's heavy traffic, road closures, or unexpected detours, you can approach these challenges without feeling rushed or stressed. Embrace the journey and enjoy the flexibility that comes with allowing ample time for a pressure-free trip to camp.

Quality Time Along the Way

Rather than viewing the trip as just Point A to Point B, consider it an opportunity to create lasting memories with your child. Take advantage of the extra hours by planning a stop at a scenic spot for a delicious lunch or an enjoyable picnic. Additionally, you can make a stop along the way to pick up any items you may have forgotten to pack.

Complete Registration

Registration is a way for the camp to ensure that everyone who is scheduled to arrive actually makes it. To ensure a smooth start to your camp experience, it's important to honor the designated registration time set by your camp. Punctuality is key. An early arrival will be just as unappreciated as a late one. There are a lot of little steps in the registration process:

Meet the Directors

Directors oversee the camp's operations and create an enriching environment. Introduce yourself and your child. This interaction helps set the foundation for a positive time at camp. Ask any questions you have and express any concerns. They’re there to ensure the well-being and happiness of all campers.

Settle Your Child's Account

Finalizing any outstanding payments ensures your financial obligations are met. By promptly addressing these matters, you contribute to the smooth functioning of the camp's administrative processes.

Cabin Assignment

This assignment plays a big part in your camper’s sense of community and belonging. Embrace the chance to meet your child's cabin mates—these connections could likely become lifelong friendships!

Talk to Medical Staff

Share relevant information about your child's health including allergies, medication requirements, or any pre-existing conditions so the medical team can provide the support your camper needs.

Move Your Child's Gear

Assisting your child in moving their belongings and helping them organize their space allows them to settle into their new living space and begin creating a sense of personal comfort and familiarity.

Meet Your Child's Leader

Make sure you cover the important issues with the cabin leader or group leader, but be aware of his or her responsibility to other families. You may have to wait your turn to have a decent talk, but it’s worth your while. If you cannot be there in person on opening day, you should still share as much helpful information as you can with the camp staff. The best way to do this is by writing a descriptive letter to the camp director.

Engage in Conversation

Your child’s cabin, bunk, tent, group, or unit may have more than one leader, but make sure you meet at least one of them. Ask about their camping experience, where they are in school, how their summer has been going, and where they live. You should leave camp with a good sense of who is caring for your child.

Share Important Information about your Camper

Communicate any physical, behavioral, or emotional concerns you have about your child and tell the staff how you usually deal with these issues.

Recent Life Events that may be Relevant

You may want to mention exceptional family circumstances, such as a recent divorce, loss of a loved one or pet, or a traumatic academic, social, or athletic event. Personal details aren’t necessary, but a basic understanding of what has been happening in your child’s life can put their emotions and behaviors in perspective for the camp staff. 

Address Medical, Behavioral, and Emotional Concerns

You might still want to say hello to the health center staff whether your child has medical, behavioral, or emotional issues or not. These are the folks who will care for your camper in the unlikely event of an emergency.

Meeting your Child’s Needs

Together, you and the camp director and the medical staff can decide how the whole camp staff can best meet your child’s needs. Perhaps you’ll decide that not every staff person in camp needs to know your child’s special concerns.

Prescription Medications

Ensure that the medical staff is aware of any prescription medications, which should be provided in their original bottles with clear dosage instructions.

 

Trusting the Staff

Some parents and children hesitate to share information about medical, emotional, or behavioral concerns. They may feel that the information is too personal or they worry about confidentiality. Trust that the camp staff will handle sensitive matters with discretion and confidentiality.

Allocate Spending Money

When it comes to sending your child to camp, one important consideration is the allocation of spending money. Many camps have policies discouraging campers from carrying cash for security reasons. Instead, they may request that you set aside money for your child to use for camp store purchases, arts and crafts projects, or out-of-camp trips. Providing your child with spending money ensures they can participate in various camp activities and experiences.

How Much to Allocate

Some camps include spending money in the registration fees; others ask you to make a deposit when you register. If the camp does not publish a suggested amount in their information packet, ask the director how much spending money is adequate. You’ll get back whatever is leftover at the end of the session.

Camp Clothing = Camp Spirit

Purchasing camp apparel and other items on Opening Day fosters a sense of excitement for your camper. Whether it's a camp T-shirt, hoodie, or other camp-themed accessories, wearing these items signifies their involvement in the camp community and adds to the overall spirit and enthusiasm.

Saying Goodbye

Each child is unique in their preferences when it comes to saying goodbye. Some may prefer their parents to leave promptly after settling in while others may desire a bit more time together. It's essential to communicate and agree on an appropriate time frame before departing.

How to Say Goodbye

Decide on a farewell gesture that your child is comfortable with, such as a short walk, a hug and kiss, a high-five, or any other preferred method.

Stick to the Exit

Once you've said your goodbyes, make a clear and decisive departure. Lingering or returning unexpectedly can create anxiety about the actual departure. However, if your child requests a little more time, accommodate their needs and suggest a specific timeframe for saying goodbye.

Your Camper’s Reaction

Cabin leaders have seen it all—campers breaking down in tears as their parents depart, or campers eager to rush their parents out of camp. Keep in mind, the goal of sending your child to camp is to give them a sense of independence. If your child wants you to stay longer, acknowledge their feelings but stick to the initial plan. Give them a choice: to say goodbye now or in ten more minutes. If they embrace the new environment quickly and make friends right away, that's a positive sign!

 

Make Opening Day a smooth slide into life at camp for your child and walk away knowing they’re about to embark on a fantastic camp adventure. We appreciate you reading our tips and we wish you and your camper a wonderful summer camp journey! Feel free to comment on this post and share your own experience of Opening Day.

Check out some previous posts I’ve written on successfully navigating Visiting Day and how to be prepared for Closing Day. You can find all this valuable information and so much more to aid your camp prep in 'The Summer Camp Handbook', a thorough guidebook that covers every part of getting your camper and yourself ready for the camp season.

Thanks for reading, Folks! And, as always, Happy Camping!

 

- John