Summer camp is an exciting and memorable experience for children. It’s a time for exploration, growth, and adventure, and it’s a great way for children to learn independence in a fun and easygoing environment.
However, with all the excitement of sleepaway camp, it’s important to ensure that your child is well-equipped for their outdoor adventures. Let’s dive in and take a look at some of the essentials your child will need for their adventures at camp.
1. Comfortable and Appropriate Clothing
Your child will need comfortable and appropriate clothing. It’s important to ensure that your child has the right clothing for the activities they will be participating in.
If the camp involves hiking or other outdoor activities, make sure your child has comfortable hiking shoes, lightweight and breathable clothing, and rain gear. Remember, they will be spending most of their time outdoors, so make sure they have clothes that are functional and also help protect them from the elements.
If swimming is on the activity list, don’t forget to pack waterproof sandals, a swimsuit, and a cover-up. It’s also a good idea to confirm whether they need to bring their own lifejacket or if one will be provided.
Don’t forget to include appropriate accessories, like compression socks. A few pairs of Comrad Socks will help keep your little one happy, comfortable, and energized by providing much-needed support.
2. Proper Footwear
Proper footwear is essential for any sort of outdoor activity at camp. Your child will be spending a lot of time on their feet, so it’s important to ensure their shoes are comfortable, fit well, and provide support. Depending on the activities at camp, your child may need hiking boots, water shoes, or sneakers.
Make sure that your child’s shoes fit properly and are broken in before camp. This will help prevent blisters and keep them up on their feet so they can enjoy their experience to the fullest. A few weeks before camp, take them out to run errands with you in their new shoes a few times. Just like clothing, make sure you label your child’s shoes with their name to avoid mix-ups with other campers.
3. Sun Protection
Sun protection is crucial for outdoor activities at sleepaway camp. Make sure your child has a hat to shield their face and neck from the sun, as well as sunglasses to help shade their eyes. Pack sunscreen with a high SPF and instruct your child to apply it regularly throughout the day and every two hours while swimming. Packing a lip balm with SPF is also a great idea to help keep their lips comfortable and sunburn-free.
4. Insect Repellent
Insect repellent is another essential for any type of outdoor activity. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects can carry diseases and cause discomfort for your child. Pack insect repellent with DEET to help protect your child from itchy and irritating insect bites.
Make sure your child knows how to properly use the insect repellent and how to reapply it as needed. You may also want to pack antihistamines in case your child does get bitten and experiences some sort of allergic reaction. Be sure to check with the camp to ask how they would handle a situation of that type.
5. First Aid Kit
Safety comes first, and this is especially important at camp. Make sure your child has a small first aid kit with them containing items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. You may also want to include a small pair of scissors and tweezers for removing splinters or ticks.
Teaching your child how to use the first aid kit and when to seek medical attention is important. Make sure the first aid kit is easily accessible and labeled with your child’s name.
6. Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial when you plan on having fun in the sun. Pack a reusable water bottle for your child to bring with them on their excursions. Encourage your child to drink water regularly throughout the day, even if they don’t “feel” thirsty. Single-serve electrolyte packets are another great way to encourage your child to drink water and stay hydrated while helping replenish their electrolytes.
A Season of Memories
Adequately preparing your child for all the outdoor adventures they will get to enjoy at sleepaway camp is crucial to ensure they have a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s important to pack comfortable and appropriate clothing, proper footwear, sun protection, insect repellent, a first aid kit, and a water bottle. Finally, don’t forget to label everything to avoid their belongings getting lost or mixed up!
Additionally, make sure to teach your child how to use all of their essentials and when to seek medical attention if needed. Encourage them to drink water regularly and stay hydrated throughout the day. With these essentials, your child will be well-equipped for fun in the sun and able to fully embrace all the excitement that awaits at sleepaway camp.