Do you have your child’s plans set for camp this summer? If he’ll be attending day camp these tips can help make the experience a good one.
1. FILL ‘ER UP. Bring one bottle of refrigerated water and a second one that has been in the freezer. The frozen water will melt during the day and provide cool refreshment.
2. IT’S A SCORCHER! Apply sunscreen to your child’s skin before he leaves home then send the tube along for later reapplication, along with a hat for extra protection.
3. BUG OFF! If your child is going to be out in a natural environment, he should wear a childsafe insect repellent; avoid sprays. When camp is over, follow up with a tick check for safekeeping.
4. ALL DECKED OUT. Dress your child for comfort, safety and appropriate temperatures. Proper shoes are important too; avoid strappy sandals and flip-flops; opt for tennis shoes.
5. NAME IT AND CLAIM IT. Items brought to camp should include a label with your child’s contact information in case it gets left behind.
6. TIME OUT FROM TECH TOYS. If brought, they may be confiscated and returned at the end of the day in hopes your child gets the message.
7. PILLS, PAINS AND OTHER PROBLEMS. All camps have forms for parents to list medications their child is on. But if you take your child off a medication for the summer, the camp needs to know that too. Also make counselors aware of insect or food-related allergies.
8. HELP IS ON THE WAY! Having an emergency contact person is vital. Even more important is that the designated person knows in advance you are listing her as a contact.
9. BEEF YER’ BRAIN. Read the camp’s policies, procedures and planned activities so you know what to expect and what is expected of you. Then talk it over with your child.
10. GETTING TO KNOW YOU. Attend the open house so you can meet the staff and see the facility prior to camp. If you can’t attend, make other arrangements to introduce yourself to those who will be caring for your child.
