10 Things To Do Now To Prepare For Summer Camp

I know that it is only May and camps are still a ways away, but you can never start preparing too early. Here are some things to do while the kids are still in school to help get ready for camp.

1. Make sure all the "administrative" tasks are done: physicals, med checks, permission slips, emergency contact information, etc. You should have 3 copies of this- one for your records, one on hand for check-in day, and one to send to the camp with other paperwork.

2. Along The same lines, you should make a list of important phone numbers- camp counselor, camp director, general camp line, nurse line, local hospital, etc in case of emergency.

3. Make your child a list of important phone numbers to give your child, along with important camp numbers, and a map of the camp to keep in their backpack. My mom always sent a map of camp with me with important places- cabins, nurse, office, pool, classrooms, etc highlighted. On the back of this map was always people to contact if I needed them. Luckily, I knew the camp director and nurse, but these are handy for kids to know.

4. Know the mailing address and have a letter ready to mail so they will receive it after being at camp a couple days. Mom always did this and it was always nice to have mail in the first few days.

5. Make a shopping list and start picking up items now, so you don't have to do it all at once later. See if the camp has a reccommended packing list - this will help making your shop list.

6. Access your child's summer clothing and swimwear. You may need to buy things. If you know now what they need, you can catch things on sale.

7. Buy the items your child will need to pack with- once you have that, you can store the other items you pick up in them as you buy them. See this post for ideas.

8. Talk with parents who's children have been to that camp or a similar for tips.

9. Talk with your child about safety- wilderness, personal, and general.

10. Get your child excited- this is a wonderful experience. Get them excited about it.

10 Things To Pack That May Not Be Obvious

1. Flashlight/ Bugspray/ Anti-Itch Cream/ Sunscreen: They may be obvious, but so easily forgotten
2. Batteries and lots of them
3. Charging Cables and cases
4. shower shoes
5. Lysol- I always sprayed the shower before I got in and I sprayed my bed when I got there
6. Calling Card: They may need to call home. Even if they have a cell phone that back up is nice to have and gives mom and dad an extra sense of security.
7. Extra towels- a towel only stays fresh so long and they will need an extra for the pool as well.
8. Snacks- I always loved having snacks and candy for late nights hanging out in the cabin. Include a water bottle too. Throw in some change for vending machines.
9. Does the camp include a talent show? Make sure your child has what they need to perform. If you child does yoga, pilates, or other excercises, make sure they have those items too- yoga socks might be a good option.
10. Entertainment- sometimes life in a cabin can be boring- especially on rainy days, down days, and after several days at camp, even the evenings can get boring while hanging out with the other campers. Taking along puzzles, board games, cards, and coloring items can really help. This can help on the long drive to and from camp as well. 

I have a special tip for kids with special needs like allergies and diabetes. I learned this from a friend at summer camp. Have 3 kits- one for home, one for the child's backpack at camp, and one for the nurse's office. Make sure there are specific instructions with each kit and make sure you talk with the nurse, counselor, and director about any special needs and directions.