StephenFine
Novice
/ Moderator
Apr 11, 2008, 10:09 AM
Post #1 of 1
(5570 views)
|
|
Preparing the Family for Summer Camp
|
Can't Post
|
|
By Dr. Stephen Fine
Now that spring is upon us and the end of the school year is near thoughts are turning to summer vacation. It’s an exciting time for school weary children. And this may be the summer that your child will be attending an overnight camp for the first time. So far you’ve done everything right.
You researched camps that seemed a likely fit to your child’s personality and interests. You began your search early, which gave you the opportunity to survey a wide variety of camps. You checked that the activities offered were available for your child’s age group. And, you personally spoke with the camp director in an open and honest manner. Most importantly, you allowed some time for you and your child to discuss their first summer camp adventure away from home. Now don’t blow it!
Going away to camp is a family event. Parents, siblings, grandparents and even the family pet all play a role. Here are some things to consider so your child’s first summer camp experience will be a success.
The Younger Siblings
Younger brothers and sisters may become anxious about their sibling being away from home. A good idea is to have a planned itinerary for the younger ones. This could be a day camp, weekend excursions or collaborating with friends who also have little ones for group games, sports or themed activities.
Grandparents are often the impetus for their grandchildren going to camp. So while one child is at camp it can be an ideal time for the younger ones to spend some time with grandparents. And be sure to emphasize that they will soon have their turn to go to camp as well.
Pointers for Pining Parents
Parent’s behaviour plays an important role in ensuring a successful first time away. How you portray camp in the weeks leading up to departure is central to a child’s adjustment. Be positive, encouraging and never make a deal for an early pick-up from camp. “Pick-up deals” should never be seen as an incentive. They are a guaranteed recipe for failure.
If you made the decision for overnight camp as a family then stick with the commitment. Just let your child go and have a good time. The eight year old going to sleepover camp may experience first-time jitters. Homesickness in the first 48 hours can happen and is almost always short lived. Learning to become comfortable away from home is one of the many reasons for going to camp in the first place.
Also, leave the cell phone at home. Cell phones have become vital for dealing with changing schedules, security and the necessity of contact anytime anywhere. But these issues of daily adult life are not part of the everyday life at summer camp. Cell phones only impede the camp experience for a child.
For example, campers with cell phones are less likely to turn to their counsellors or cabin mates for assistance, support or even just someone to talk to. Often it’s easier to just call mom or dad. Cell phone campers tend to become isolated from camp life rather than joining in and developing the combination of independence and interdependence that the camp experience provides.
The Family Pet
One thing in common with all domesticated animals is that they love routine. Dogs sitting by the front door on cue for the scheduled walk or your cat’s habitual mid-day snooze on top of the china cabinet; rabbits, hamsters, even fish, all become attuned to routine. Any change in routine, such as household schedules while the kids are away at camp, can impact on a pet’s disposition.
But, animals do not rationalize the way humans do. So, don’t send letters or emails like, “Fluffy is so depressed that you’re gone - she won’t eat - she just stresses all day – everyone is missing you so much.” Hey, what kind of positive message is that? Better to say, Fluffy is spending her days digging in the garden or harassing the neighbour’s cat, and hey dude, what’s going on at camp?
Don’t Worry. Be Happy.
The family’s comfort level with a period of separation from children can also be moderated by a vacation, special project or business travel. A time for some well deserved R&R, paint the house, go to a conference or perhaps the cottage will keep you engaged while the kids are at camp.
Remember, camps accredited by the Ontario Camping Association have a proven record for the highest standards of professional practice, health and safety, caring and capable leaders, and beneficial programs for children. So relax and let the magic of summer camp happen for your child.
---
Dr. Stephen Fine is co-owner and co-director of The Hollows Camp and Chair of Educational Research of the Ontario Camping Association.
(This post was edited by StephenFine on Jun 9, 2008, 11:04 AM)
|
