Part of your child’s success at camp will depend on the preparations made before she ever leaves home. Whether it’s working through pre-departure jitters or knowing what to pack, following a few simple guidelines will ensure that your camper starts her experience on the right foot.
1. Don’t make a “pick-up deal.”
Promising “If you feel homesick, I’ll come and get you” undermines children’s confidence and dramatically intensifies homesickness. Instead, normalize their anxiety, talk positively about camp, and make sure they know an early pick-up is not an option.
2. Double-check the packing list.
View the packing list HERE
Remember to bring at least 2 pairs of “whites” for ceremonies. If you are coming for session 4B, bring a long sock for Christmas in July. And remember – we are tech free at Camp Newaygo!
3. Spend practice time away from home.
Nothing builds confidence and teaches a child how to cope with time away from home better than…(you guessed it)…time away from home. That weekend at grandma and grandpa’s will do wonders for their adjustment. Remember: No phone calls. This is the time to practice writing letters!
4. Label everything.
It’s easy to lose things at camp, but if you want it back, it’s got to have your name on it. Label everything from your t-shirts to your toothbrush. And leave really expensive gear at home. Most children lose something at camp, so check the lost-and-found during check out.
5. Double-check the starting time for check-in and check-out
Start camp off on a smooth note by arriving on time and on the right day. Use a wall calendar in the months prior to opening day to make an exciting count-down to the big day.
We can’t wait to see you at Camp Newaygo – please let us know if there’s anything else we can do to make your pre-camp experience any easier.
-Jalisa, Director