Here’s what you need to know about summer camp for kids.
It’s never too early to begin thinking about summer camps. From day camp to overnight programs, there are a wide array of choices when it comes to selecting camps for your children to participate in.
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about preparing your family for camp:
What age can children start attending summer camp?
There are camps for children of all ages, but an ideal time to start is around 4.5 years old — right before children transition into school. The YMCA of Orange County runs many of its summer camps on school campuses throughout Orange County so it’s a perfect opportunity to help acclimate your child to the school they will be attending.
Kids from 4.5 to 17 years old will benefit from attending summer camp as they engage in physical, social and educational activities that not only help them learn incredible life skills, but also make lasting friendships.
How do you choose a camp for your child?
Parents can start having conversations with their kids about what they want their summer to be filled with. There are more choices and varieties of specialized elective-type camps than ever before. From cooking and sewing, to gaming and e-sports as well as STEAM, robotics and fitness, you can find summer camps that match your child’s interests and will help them stay engaged.
What will we need to bring?
Most camps will provide a list of what you will need to pack each day. Similar to what children need when they attend school, they may need an extra set of clothes, snacks and lunch, and sunscreen. Depending on the activities for the week, there may be themed events or water-play where extra supplies may be requested. For overnight camps, a full packing list will be shared in advance so you can ensure your child will have what they need for the week.
If your child requires medicine or special care, parents should have those conversations with the camp staff ahead of time so everyone can be well-prepared in making sure your child has everything they need to have a fun and safe experience.
How can I best prepare my child?
It’s important to communicate with your child about the camps they will be attending. If you are going to tour or meet someone to talk about the camp, bring your child along so they can have that experience — and they might have questions they want to ask too. If you front-load the conversations now, it will help them know what to anticipate when summer comes around.
Remember, it’s normal for many children to be nervous or scared about attending summer camp, but with some preparation and support you’ll find that this opportunity will increase their capacity for new experiences, inspire confidence and foster resilience that they will carry on throughout life. Pick a camp and have them go with a friend to help make the adjustment easier.
What are the benefits of attending summer camp?
The benefits of summer camp are endless. Giving kids the opportunity to socialize and play with their peers teaches them so many life skills such as working as a team, leadership, picking up on social cues and self-awareness. Camp is a transformational experience for children. It gives them the chance to make new friends, learn new skills and engage in physical, social and educational activities — creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Dorain Cassell is the director of Operations, Child & Youth Development at YMCA of Orange County. ymcaoc.org/orange-county-camps
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