Summer is here, and that means it’s time for camp adventures at Calleva! Whether your child is a first-time camper or a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, we know that preparing for camp can be both exciting and a little daunting.
Many of our campers will be spending their first extended period outside all day, experiencing the joys of nature, physical activity, and new friendships. Here’s a guide to help you and your child get ready for this amazing adventure, and to ensure you both know what to expect.
Preparing Your Child for Camp
They say a failure to plan is a plan to fail. This is true in life, and true for camp. Ensuring your child is prepared for their time at Calleva can make all the difference in their experience.
By helping them know what to expect and ensuring they are ready for the adventures ahead, you set them up for a successful and enjoyable camp experience. Let’s dive into some key steps to get your child ready for camp!
1. Embrace the Outdoors
One of the biggest adjustments for many campers is spending all day outside. Here’s how to help them get ready:
- Talk About It: Discuss with your child what it will be like to be outside all day. Reminisce about adventures outdoors your child has enjoyed previously. Or, share your own positive outdoor experiences.
- Practice: Spend time outside together before camp starts. Go for hikes, have picnics, or simply play in the backyard to get them accustomed to being outdoors.
2. Stay Cool and Hydrated
The summer heat can be intense, so it’s crucial for campers to stay cool and hydrated. We make staying cool fun with water games, sprinklers, streams, rivers and ponds. However, there are also things you can do to ensure your camper stays cool:
- Water Bottles: Make sure your child has a durable water bottle and encourage them to drink water regularly.
- Light Clothing: Dress them in lightweight, breathable clothing. Light colors can help reflect the sun’s rays.
- Hats and Sunscreen: Pack a hat to protect their face from the sun and apply sunscreen every morning before camp.
3. Embrace the Dirt
Camp is a time for getting dirty and having fun! Most of the fun we have at Calleva is wild, messy fun.
- Expect Mess: Let your child know it’s okay to get dirty. Mud, grass stains, and sand are all part of the camp experience.
- Old Clothes: Send them in clothes that can get dirty. Avoid anything too precious or new.
4. Prepare for Physical Activity
Calleva camps are full of physical activities, from hiking to swimming to climbing. While these activities vary based on the specific camp, all of our campers are on the move all day. Make sure your camper is ready!
- Fitness Level: Make sure your child is ready for the physical demands of camp. Engage in physical activities together before camp starts. Go for walks outside, play outside, go for a swim, or whatever activity your family enjoys.
- Comfortable Shoes: Invest in a good pair of outdoor shoes. Although new shoes are great, they should be broken in before camp. It’s critical campers have shoes that are comfortable for long periods of walking and running.
Empowering Your Child
Empowering Your Child for camp is essential to their growth and enjoyment during their time at Calleva. Camp offers a unique opportunity for children to develop independence, confidence, and problem-solving skills. By encouraging your child to take on new challenges and supporting them through their journey, you help them build resilience and self-assurance.
Let’s explore some effective ways to empower your child and ensure they make the most of their camp experience.
1. Encourage Independence
Camp is a great opportunity for your child to develop independence. Not only will campers have opportunities to gain independence at camp, it can begin at home as well.
- Packing: Let them help pack their own camp bag. It gives them a sense of responsibility and helps them be familiar with where things are in their bag.
- Problem-Solving: Encourage them to try solving small problems on their own, like filling their own water bottle or applying sunscreen. The more they do this at home, the easier it will be for them at camp.
2. Positive Reinforcement
Boost your child’s confidence and enthusiasm. By celebrating their successes and providing encouragement during challenging moments, you can help them develop a positive mindset and a love for adventure.
- Talk It Up: Speak positively about camp and the fun they’ll have. Share stories about your own camp experiences if you have them.
- Celebrate: After each camp day, ask them about their adventures and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small.
Managing Expectations for Parents
Sending your child to camp can be a big step, especially if it’s their first time. It’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Managing your expectations and understanding what to anticipate can make this transition smoother for both you and your child.
Trusting the process, offering support and encouragement, and staying informed about camp activities are key strategies. Here’s how you can approach each of these areas to ensure a positive and rewarding camp experience for your child.
1. Trust the Process
It’s natural to feel anxious about sending your child to camp, especially if it’s their first time. If you’re feeling worried, just know that we are not. We know just how to help first time campers. Calleva hires outdoor professionals dedicated to providing campers with the most enjoyable camp experiences.
- Trust the Staff: Calleva’s staff are experienced and trained to handle all kinds of situations. They are there to ensure your child has a safe and enjoyable time.
- Expect Some Adjustments: It might take a day or two for your child to settle into the camp routine. This is normal. Stick with it for the week before rushing to judgement.
2. Support and Encouragement
Your support can make a huge difference. As your child navigates the new experiences and challenges of camp, your encouragement and positivity will be crucial. By staying positive, listening to their concerns, and validating their feelings, you help build their confidence and resilience.
- Stay Positive: Even if your child has a tough day, stay positive. Encourage them to keep trying and remind them of the fun parts. Remind them that you believe they will have fun at camp. Also keep in mind that small things seem like bigger issues to kids at the end of a very long, very hot, very exciting day.
- Listen and Validate: Listen to their concerns and validate their feelings. Reassure them that it’s okay to feel a little homesick or tired.
3. Stay Informed
Keep yourself informed about camp activities and schedules. Staying updated on what’s happening at Calleva not only helps you feel more connected, but also enables you to better support your child. By reading emails, texts, and knowing how to communicate with camp staff, you can stay in the loop and address any concerns promptly.
- Read Updates: Check for any updates or emails from Calleva to stay in the loop. Your confirmation emails have important information about each week of camp. This is your first stop for info. After reading your emails, check out the Parent Resources area on our website. Also, don’t forget to follow Calleva on social media (instagram or facebook).
- Communication: Know how and when to contact camp if you have any concerns. Our office staff is here to help, ready to answer questions that are not already answered online. Contact us so we can help!
Evening Routines
After a full day of camp, your child will need time to unwind and recharge for another exciting day at Calleva. Establishing calming evening routines can help them transition smoothly from their outdoor adventures to restful evenings.
1. Decompress and Relax
After a full day of camp, your child will need time to unwind. This looks different for everybody, but calm evenings and early bedtimes will set you up for success.
- Calm Evenings: Keep evening activities low-key. Read a book together, play a quiet game, or simply relax. On the really hot days, campers may need some time to cool off indoors after camp.
- Early Bedtime: Ensure they get plenty of rest. Physical activity and fresh air can be tiring. A specific camp bedtime and routine takes the battle out of bedtime during camp weeks.
2. Healthy Meals
Nutrition is important for replenishing energy. Providing your child with balanced and nutritious meals ensures they have the fuel needed for a day packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
- Balanced Diet: Provide balanced meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and proteins. These foods help support their physical stamina and overall well-being.
- Hydration: Continue to encourage water intake even after camp. Make it fun with flavored ice, fresh fruit or even a fancy cup.
3. Share Stories
Talking about their day helps them process their experiences. Sharing stories with your child about their adventures can deepen their understanding of new activities, friendships, and challenges. By asking open-ended questions and showing genuine interest in their camp experiences, you not only strengthen your bond but also support their emotional growth.
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Ask about the best part of their day, any new friends they made, or something new they learned. You may be surprised by the answers!
- Be Enthusiastic: Show genuine interest and excitement in their stories. Ask questions about details and follow up from earlier in the week.
Happy Campers Plan Ahead!
Calleva Summer Camp is an incredible opportunity for your child to grow, learn, and have fun. With a little preparation and a lot of encouragement, both you and your camper will be ready for an unforgettable summer adventure. Here’s to a fantastic camp season!
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