Sleepaway Camp
SUCCESS HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILD HAVE A FUN SUMMER AWAY FROM HOME
By JENNIFER KANTOR
“Encourage your child to be an enthusiastic participant —they’ll get out of it what they put in.” 66
rom missing mom to a fear of not fitting in, overnight camp can challenge even the most resilient kids—and not just first-timers. The pandemic has done a number on kids socially and emotionally, and many have skipped the past summer or two of camp. Parents want to help their kids thrive while away, but limited communication with campers (via emails, letters and the occasional phone call) can leave parents lost as to how to help potentially struggling campers from afar. Getting in front of the problems before drop-off is the best way to help kids have an amazing summer away. Here’s how to do that:
from day one. "Trying new things and meeting new people is the name of the game,” says Brian Pollack, founder and clinical director of Hilltop Behavioral Health in Summit. Winter bonding events (such as online pizza parties) and introductions to local campers go a long way in making that first day away a good one. Just don’t go randomly reaching out to people, advises Bitterman—let the camp help make social connections after getting to know your child a bit. And encourage your child to be an enthusiastic participant—they’ll get out of it what they put in.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT CAMP… DIRECTOR
It can be hard for an older tween or teen to crack a clique that’s been bunking together since forever. Before committing to a camp, ask how many kids are new and how they acclimate them—and see if you feel good about their response, says Tracy Levine, director of the nonprofit organization One Happy Camper in Hanover. Some camps lean heavily towards starting young, while others (usually choice or interest-based) draw older tweens and teens. And certain sessions may also have a greater number of new campers. “It’s not going to be easy,” says Bitterman. Getting to know other campers before the summer starts is critical, and they’re going to have to do their part in fitting into the group. Even so, the first few days may be rough as old friends reconnect. Knowing it will be hard will help them push through.
Choose a camp that matches your child’s interests and don’t let glowing recommendations and state-of-the-art amenities and activities tempt you—it really is about leadership, says Maplewood resident Britton Bitterman, who serves as co-director and owner of Camp Watitoh in the Berkshires, along with her husband Drew. “The most important thing you’re choosing as a parent is a camp director that’s concerned with raising your kids with your values," says Bitterman. "You’re looking for partners who are going to take good care of your kids. Period. Make sure to involve your child in this decision from the get-go, she says. “Kids have to feel like they have a voice.”
CONNECT WITH OTHER CAMPERS Worried your kids won’t find a friend they’ll click with? “Finding out if there are any meet and greets beforehand is a great way to help your camper feel comfortable
HELP THEM CONNECT
IDENTIFY TRUSTED CONFIDANTS Make sure your child knows who to turn to if things go awry, or they just need a
NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2022
