Summer Camp Decision

Dear Parents,

My assignment for this article was to write about summer camps for kids. That sounds pretty easy, doesn’t it? Well consider my own personal experience . . . my two boys flatly refused to even discuss the possibility of summer camp. First there was the issue of them being sent off to “exile,” then came their concern that they might miss something, and last but not least there was the horrifying possibility that I might enjoy their absence. As you can see, there is nothing easy about this.

The reasons for sending a child to summer camp are as varied as there are children to go. We would all like to be able to give our children wonderfully enriching, fun-filled opportunities that encourage independence. Another very good reason is that Mom and Dad both work and your local school insists on closing in June.

Your first decision is to choose day camp or sleep-away camp. The most obvious guideline is the child’s age. Day camps are the choice for the three- to seven-year-old set, with sleep-away camps to be considered for those eight and above. There is, however, an exception to every rule. You may have one of the few seven- and half-year-olds who separates easily, craves independence, loves new experiences and is just dying to get away like his older sister. Discuss with the camp director or other professional at camp what both you and the camp staff will do if your child goes to camp and does not adjust well or is unhappy. This is sound advice for anyone who is sending a child to camp, not just for those sending a novice camper.

Next, you must decide how long your child will attend camp. The cost, distance to camp, availability of transportation, availability of programs, need for supervised childcare and your child’s readiness for camp all need to be considered. When you think about whether or not your child is ready for camp, consider how easily your child takes to new experiences. Also consider whether or not you are ready to let go. One of the best things a child can get from a camping experience is a taste of independence.

There are so many types of camps that the choice is almost unlimited. There are camps for those with special needs, such as children with burns, diabetes, cancer, developmental problems, weight problems and physical or sensory disabilities. There are also cybercamps, space camps, smartcamps, science camps, math camps, sports camps, riding camps, and the list goes on and on. There are even family camps for those of you who want this to be a family experience. A wonderful website for finding camps is www.kidscamps.com .  The site lists a tremendous variety of camps and provides tips for a successful camp experience, as well as advice from camping experts. Another way to get the same information is to visit your library or check your local newspaper, particularly the Sunday magazine section.

When the day to go to camp arrives, be supportive, positive and excited. Let your child “catch” your enthusiasm for the fun he or she is about to have. If your child is going to overnight camp, do not feel guilty about having some time to yourself. Should you find yourself at a loss to fill all those quiet peaceful nights, there is always adult camp.

Sincerely,
Jeanne K. Weintraub, R.N., M.S.N.
Coordinator, Ambulatory Health Services