Camp Talk: Discussing the Youth Camp Option

Summer’s around the corner, school will be let out and after a couple of weeks on the home front with the kids, it may be a good time for your child to head to summer camp. Camps have come a long way—your child won’t be stuck at some table creating macaroni pictures while being eaten alive by killer mosquitoes. Youth camps offer a fine alternative to the lack of structure that follows the end of the school year. I was enjoying lunch with a friend over the weekend and she spoke about her daughter’s summer camp experience last year, “It was kind of a relief for both of us, I mean, I love my daughter but she had fun meeting new friends and participating in numerous activities while I finished up my book.” My sense was that she felt guilty for appreciating some “me” time while her daughter scurried off to camp. However, overnight summer camps and even day camps can be a win-win situation for everyone involved. More importantly, it’s crucial to speak with your child about their likes, dislikes and fears about leaving home—a day camp is another alternative. After creating a focused outline on the types of camps available, set up a dinner or throw on some hot chocolate—it’s time to discuss the following questions with your child:

The Summer Camp Option: Is A Camp Program Right For Your Child?

It seems straight forward but ask your child how they want to use their free time this summer—after listening, throw out the idea of summer camp.

Your Very Own Summer Camp: What Would You Do?

The more creative communication used during dinner, the more developed the conversations become. Ask your child, “If you could create a summer camp of your own, what would you and your friends do there?” At this point, present information you may have found that matches their description of the perfect camp. Take note; make the conversation fun but informative: food fights and playing videogames don’t count as activities.

Your Child’s Summer Adventure: Length of Stay:

Leaving home for the first time is a right of passage; the process is both exciting and nerve racking—first time campers probably shouldn’t stay at an overnight camp for more than two weeks. Ask your child straight forward, “how long would you like to spend at camp?” Finances should be taken into account when deciding on the perfect getaway for your little camper; day camps tend to be more affordable. Let’s face it, most of us aren’t Ritchie Rich but there are numerous youth camps that fit with every budget.

Teen Camps and Teen Tactics:

At some point, your teen may have the inkling to join in on the leadership aspect of summer camp. This is the perfect opportunity to give the family car a rest and ask your teen about taking advantage of the many camp counseling training programs. Geared for teens around 16 or 17, learning to become a camp counselor is the perfect way for teens to gain leadership skills, earn a little extra money, volunteer or bunk at a camp for free. Become involved in the process and help your teen research for more information.

Show you’re open to the type of camp they choose; throw out options and refrain from pressuring your child to attend a summer camp. This may or may not be your child’s camp year—open the door to discussion and find out reasons for anxiety or why they loathe attending summer camp. The world is their campground and you can help them discover the perfect spot.