In Canada, summer camps are very popular. The Salvation Army has been operating summer camps for more than 100 years and values what this experience can bring to children.
The overall purpose of any Salvation Army camp is to serve the total personality and needs of the camper; spiritual, educational, social and recreational through a creative, healthful experience, in co-operative group living in outdoor settings.
But going to a week-long residential camp is a big step for children and parents. Here are some key steps that will lead to a successful summer camp adventure.
Make sure your child has several positive experiences spending the night away from home.
Get excited with your child. Mark the first day of camp on the calendar and make a big deal of creating a checklist of items for camp.
When your child is at camp, don’t schedule a significant family event. The disappointment of missing a family celebration will outweigh the camp experience.
Talk to your child about homesickness. Tell them it’s normal and encourage them to talk to other campers or counsellors about their feelings. Even the most tearful, clingy camper will be off socializing soon after parents leave. Communicate confidence in his/her ability to handle being away from home.
Write your child a couple of letters and pack them in their luggage. It’s equally important to send a letter through the mail. “Mail Call” is a big event at camp.
When you arrive at camp connect with camp staff so your child sees you are interested in the people who will be caring for him/her.
Talk with your child about what to expect at camp. Are calls home allowed? Is there a time for parents to visit?
Set up a “thinking about you time” when you and your child will think of each other. i.e. at breakfast, at bedtime or while brush your teeth.
Pack 10-11 changes of clothes and remind them that changing clothes every day is important.
After your child returns home, encourage them to practice their new skills, and encourage them to maintain their friendships through e-mails, letters or phone calls.
Parents who send their kids to camp are giving them an experience that will reap benefits for a lifetime.