Most camp organizations are lying in wait for their peak season – the summer months. During winter, these camps hibernate. That said, for first-time camp parents, choosing the right summer camp can be a difficult task, so it’s good to start your research early. Follow these tips for a stress-free camping season.

1. Know That It’s Worth the Resources

Maybe you’re on the fence about whether summer camp is the right decision for your child. The truth is that summer camps offer tremendous benefits for kids. Your child has been going through the same routine over and over again for a large part of nine months. This includes going to school, seeing the same faces and taking part in the same activities. Summer camps offer your kids the chance to explore nature, try new hobbies, learn new skills, gain self-confidence and make new friends. All in all, summer camps have both physical and emotional benefits for children.

2. Prepare Your Child for Camp

As a first-time summer camp parent, it’s natural for you and your child to be a bit nervous about being away from home. If this is the case, you can prepare your child for what lies ahead at camp. The first thing is to make sure they are of the right age. Do they feel comfortable sleeping out of the home? Are they ready for new challenges? One way to prepare your child for camping is to do a bit of research together. And if possible, schedule a day or two for a tour of some of the camps that your child finds interesting. This way you can determine the right camp to sing up for. If you are interested, you may do additional research at the Camp White Pine website for more information.

3. Choose the Right Camp for Your Child

Just as with adults, every child has their strengths and weaknesses. They may be stronger and energetic or quieter and shy than the rest of the kids within their age group. In some cases, they may pick up interest in paintings and drawings and have less interested in sports. That said, the only way you can enhance your child’s camping experience is by choosing the right camp for them—one that meets their needs and interests.

Just because your child loves sports doesn’t mean you’ll register him or her for a sports-related camp. There are many camps out there that can accommodate the needs of your child. Even if you find the perfect fit, it is wise to do a background check on the organization before registering your child. Focus your research on camp’s history. Also, check to see if a renowned regional governing body fully accredits them.

4. Consider Homesickness

Since your child will be spending time away from home, the possibility of homesickness is high. You should take homesickness seriously, especially if you are enrolling your child in a summer camp for the first time. This shouldn’t deter you from enrolling your child in a camp; instead, you just need to be prepared to deal with it whenever those feelings are expressed. Try a few sleepovers to get them used to being away from home. And make sure to pack items that will make them feel comforted if they’re homesick, such as family photos and a favourite blanket.

These tips should help you get ready for your child’s first summer camp.