Trying to ease your nerves before sending the kids away for the summer? Here are five things camp directors wish parents knew.
Chances Are, Your Child Isn’t As Anxious As You Think
“Remember that your camper is probably less nervous about being away from home than you are. If you’re worried, just call the camp and speak to the camp directors or division leader. We’re always glad to talk with parents.”
—TOM RIDDLEBERGER
CAMPUS KIDS SUMMER CAMP, BLAIRSTOWN
You May Not Realize How Valuable Camp Is to Your Child’s Development
“Every family should know that a quality summer camp experience is as valuable [to] a child’s development as a great year in school. Amazing growth happens when campers are supervised by trained role models in an intentional community.”
—DAN WEIR
FROST VALLEY YMCA, CLARYVILLE, NY
Camp Teaches Kids to Be Resilient
“Camp is a wonderful environment to practice resiliency. Not every day is going to be perfect. There are challenges of new activities like swim lessons and climbing walls, new friendships to form, new foods to try at lunch and lots of transition. Support your camper by focusing on the positive!”
—SUE RYNAR
JEFF LAKE CAMP. STANHOPE
The Summer Slide Is Real
“One hundred years of research shows that summer learning loss is a real issue. The good news is summer can be a break from school without being a break from learning. Seek out a camp that infuses fun with learning for your child.”
—TARA LA MOTTA
APPLE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS, RIVERDALE
It’s Totally Normal to Miss Your Kid
“Realize that you may feel sad when your child’s away from home all day. Separation can be as difficult for parents as it is for children. Give yourself permission to miss your child, but also give your kid permission to enjoy his time away from home. And be open with the camp about any special needs your child has. Let [camp personnel] know right away if your child’s having a hard time with something—making friends, swimming, finding a club—the camp should be able to help!”
—MIRIAM PERETSMAN
CAMP RIVERBEND, WARREN
