How To Prepare Your Child For Day Camps

Children need to be active and stimulated. A great way to provide your child with constant activity is summer camp or day camps for kids. Children can enjoy sports, arts and crafts, as well as making friends with children their own age during camp. For parents, the first time a child goes to camp can be difficult. Whether the child is going to be away for a few hours each day or several days in a row, having your child away from home can be stressful or worrisome. Learn how to prepare your child for day camps so they can be ready for the experience as well as yourself! 

Plan the Goodbye Ahead of Time

Be ready to say goodbye to your child ahead of time. This will help with the drop-off. If your child is catching a bus to summer camp, say goodbye in the home. Hug your child and let them know they will have so much fun at camp. If your child is going for a few hours, say goodbye outside of the camp so they can enter and be ready to begin. Avoid a long drawn-out goodbye so your child will not feel any need to hang back or cry when you leave. 

Talk about the First Day

As you prepare for the first day of camp, talk to your child about what will take place. Discuss drop off and what activities will be offered. If you have the option to get a schedule of activities ahead of time, do so. Show your child the schedule and talk about what they will be able to do. Talk about the first day frequently and help your child be positive and excited for the first day. 

Visit Camp Ahead of Time

A great way to prepare your child is to visit ahead of time. Take your child to the facility so they can see where they will be able to go and have fun during camp. A child can be scared to go somewhere that they have never been or have never seen. By visiting camp, meeting counselors and seeing the camp space, your child will be better prepared to attend. 

Avoid Projecting Anxiety

As a parent, you are most likely anxious about your child attending camp. If your child has never been away from home before you may be feeling stressed out or anxious. These feelings can be projected to your child which can lead to similar feelings within your child. You want to see your child excited about camp, and not anxious. Avoid projecting any anxiety you have towards your child. Only talk positively about camp and keep your anxious feelings to yourself. This will help your child feel good about being away from home. 

Zodiac Day Camps can help you feel more at ease by providing quality day camps for your child to enjoy. Learn more about the different camp options available by visiting http://www.zodiackids.ca/.