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Ready for Summer Camp?
The Salvation Army Shares Tips for Parents Sending Kids Off to Camp
Preparation for the start of the summer season is under way at more than 50 Salvation Army camps across the country, and Salvation Army camp directors advise parents to take equal care in preparing their children for the experience. Last year, more than 180,000 people attended Salvation Army summer and day camps – many were urban, underprivileged children experiencing crickets, campfires and an escape from city streets for the first time. Most attended camp with the help of a Salvation Army camp scholarship.
"The Salvation Army has been providing summer camps for more than 100 years and really values what this experience can bring to children," says Ed Covert, camp director for the Salvation Army's Camp Arnold in Eatonville, Wash. "Summer camp opens a whole new world, but parents need to recognize that along with the excitement, children may also be anxious about departing from the familiarity of their daily lives."
Covert has 10 tips for parents sending their child to camp for the first time, and at the top of the list is to make sure the child has had a positive experience spending the night away from home, perhaps at a family member's or friend's house. If possible, Covert also recommends parents discuss their own childhood camping memories and stories with their children.
"Sharing your experiences can build anticipation and excitement in the weeks leading up to camp," says Covert. "These conversations help children ask questions and express any fears they may have before leaving for camp."
Additional tips include marking the first day of camp on the family calendar and, together with your child, marking off each day and spending time talking about what a great experience camp will be. Finally, says Covert, write your child a few letters and mail them several days before departure so the letters arrive on the first day of camp. And be sure to send paper, postcards and stamps so your child can write back and maintain that connection even while you are separated.
