Tuesday Tips
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Quick Guide to Summer Camp |
Are you still looking for summer camps for your child? Fairfax County Rec Pac has options for you! After you sign up, follow a few tips to make your child's summer experience fruitful!
Follow the Packing
List
Sounds like a no-brainer, doesn't
it? Most camps send a list to parents several weeks before the camp's start
date. The list usually contains must-haves (soap, shampoo, laundry detergent)
and must-nots (cell phones, electronic games, MP3 players). If you don't study
the packing list carefully you may discover later (with tears on the side) that
your child can't have his favorite electronic game with him or can't swim
without the goggles you forgot.
Book the Doctor
ASAP
When the welcome letter, medical
forms, and packing list arrive, it may seem as though you have all kinds of
time to get organized. Be aware, however, that other campers all over your town
(and beyond) are getting similar packets with similar forms and packing lists.
Label, Label, Label
To make labeling easier, give yourself a few nights to get
everything organized—before the dreaded "night before." Use a
permanent marker and make sure you print legibly. Or order printed fabric
labels for clothing, towels, and bedding—all available in both sew-on and
iron-on form.
Provide a Sneak
Peek
Whether your child is a Boy or Girl Scout roughing it
in a tent or a science whiz staying in a dorm, explain to your child what to
expect in terms of accommodations. Photos from camp websites can help with
this. Some programs even encourage visits ahead of time to give campers an idea
of what the experience will be like.
Prepare for Homesickness
It's important to talk about it leading up to camp, but be
sure to let them know that the emotion is normal and you're sure they can
handle it. The staff is there to help them. Make sure that your worries or
"kidsickness" doesn't rub off on your child and make them more nervous
than they already are.
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