PARENT JOURNEY Thinking About Sending Your Kids To Summer Camp?

by Mary Ann Blair

Summer will be here before we know it. Along with plenty of family fun in the sun, summer season is also a time when many camps are held. Maybe in years past, you have hesitated sending your kids to camp. I was there once, too. But now that my boys have attended camp (and had a blast!), I honestly wish I had looked into sending them sooner.

From horseback riding, to learning a new art skill, or trying out a new sport, camp gives kids a chance to step outside their comfort zone and try something new. And let’s not forget the added bonus – a great reason to unplug from their screens.

It can be tempting, especially if your kids are a little nervous, to try to convince them of how much fun camp will be. But don’t overdo it. Instead of saying “I know you will have so much fun,” you can say “I bet you are so proud of yourself for trying something new!” or “I can’t wait to hear about your day.” Do I think your kids will have fun? Absolutely. But let them discover that for themselves, without the pressure of “having” to have fun.

When you send your kids to camp for the first time, it can be hard. Just like the first day of school, on the first day of camp you will probably worry about how they are doing. Totally normal. But do yourself a favor and find other things to occupy your mind. Maybe plan a long-overdue lunch date with a friend, pour yourself into a project at work, or catch up on some of those house projects you have been putting off.

And when you pick your child up at the end of the first day, don’t be overly concerned if they don’t express how much they loved camp. Day one can be a little overwhelming

“Do I think your kids will have fun? Absolutely. But let them discover that for themselves, without the pressure of “having” to have fun.” at camp, and they are always excited to run into their “camp” friends at other community events.

In fact, at the end of camp last summer, both of them gave an enthusiastic “yes!” when I asked if they wanted to attend camp again. It was heartwarming to see their enthusiasm and know they had such a good time. The memories they made, the new experiences they had, and the fun camp provided was worth every penny.

Mary Ann Blair is a mom of two boisterous boys. Besides chronicling her adventures in motherhood at maryannblair.com, she loves the outdoors, reading, and all things crafty.