May 13, 2022
HAPPY CAMPERS: 9 Summer Camp Secrets for Raising Kids Who Become Thriving Adults is now available on Audible!
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In Episode 37, Sara Kuljis (of Yosemite Sierra Summer Camp and Emerald Cove Day Camp), and I share tips and ideas for parents sending kids to overnight camp for the first time.
What parents need to do now, including reading through camp
information and filling out all your camp forms thoroughly and
completely.
Why camp staff needs the forms well in advance of your child's
arrival.
Importance of letting camp directors know any special circumstances
that might impact your child's stay.
Why it's never a good idea to make any changes in prescription
medication right before camp.
Importance of sending all medications in their original
prescription containers.
Thoughts on whether to continue vitamins.
Talking about and role-playing with your child how they can talk with trusted adults (counselors, directors) at camp.
Importance of camper being involved in the packing process so
they know where everything is!
Packing as a life skill and a way to build responsibility.
Make sure you know what items are not allowed at camp (so that
those don't go to camp).
How to pack (rolling outfits, using ziplock bags, and other
methods).
Not to bring expensive clothing items or ones that require special
laundering.
Bringing a comfort item, photo album, journal, and/or books.
Send a letter ahead of time so your camper has one at first mail
call!
Let friends and relatives know your camper's address at camp and
any mail policies
Allow some margins in your family's schedule so your child can be well-rested before camp.
Find out where to get news, photos, texts, etc.
Opt-in to anything that isn't going to automatically come to
you!
Why letting your child go to camp is a great way to set your child up for future independent experiences.
Ep. 39: How to Handle Your Camper's Homesickness
Ep. 10: Homesick and Happy with Michael Thompson, Ph.D.
5 Essential Summer Camp Packing Tips
5 Fun Ideas for Letters to Campers
Messages for an Anxious Camper
How Camp Helps Parents Raise Adults
More information about Audrey’s book is here: Happy Campers: 9 Summer Camp Secrets for Raising Kids Who Become Thriving Adults.
In Happy Campers, Audrey shares what she’s learned from three decades of creating a culture where kids become happier while gaining important social and emotional skills. The book is based on her thousands of interactions with campers, camp counselors, and parents, her academic research in positive psychology, and interviews with camp directors from across the country.