While Summer is a long way off, the time to think about Summer camp - especially sleepaway camp - is now. When thinking of this you must consider the various aspects, such as how your child will handle being away, the cost, and how you will handle the period of separation.
All of this can be broken down into sets of pros and cons.
Why you Should Send Your Child to Camp
When a child goes to an overnight Summer camp there is sense of independence he or she will learn or expand upon. It is great because the kids are in a safe and monitored environment where they learn to get along with new people and make decisions on their own.
In addition to this, it is also great for parents for the same reason. Many adults find themselves stuck in a mode where they center their plans (as they reasonably should) around their child. It is only years later when the child leaves home that mom and dad realize they don't know what to do with themselves if there aren't any games or practices, or times to be home.
some adults find that they can use the time to have a romantic evening or two, a weekend away, or they can even use it to throw themselves into a special project at work that can lead to a promotion.
Having said this, there are also reasons that Summer camp is not the best choice.
Why you Should Keep Your Child Home
Camp is an added expense to one's budget. For some, the cost is out of reach, making it an experience that really should be postponed until the funds are saved.
For children who are rigid or anxious, an overnight camp can be an experience that is contrary to most children's. For them, it might be best to test out camp by having them attend day camp first. Then, if the child wants to go away the following Summer, they can look forward to it rather than dread the idea.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
When you list out the reasons to do and not do something, it is wise to weight them in an order of most importance. For example, if camp being affordable is the #1 Pro/Con, then it needs to come before anything else. This includes how much the child wishes to go.
Having said this, if affordability is the main objection to going, then the child can be encouraged to earn the money. For example, there are plenty of leaves on the ground (and snow in some places). They can take home some money by working for neighbors and friends. For older kids who can hold more traditional jobs, they can apply to nearby businesses.
If the main objection is that one parent can't stand the idea of his or her child being away, then a compromise can be made in the length of time at camp.
There are many reasons that camp is great, and some reasons not to go. By addressing them properly, you can make the best decisions for your family.
If you're considering sending your child to an overnight summer campwww.campwalt.com, be sure to visit our site to learn about Camp Walt Whitman. Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Camp Walt Whitman offers a safe, nurturing environment in a beautiful mountain setting. Our camp is a coed sleepaway camp, with separate areas for boys and girls. The kids have a blast, and make friendships that can last a lifetime. http://www.campwalt.com.
