Thursday, July 30, 2015

Quick Guide to Summer Camp for Kids

So you’re off to summer camp and you’re wondering what to expect. 

Even if you’ve made summer camp visits maybe you’re worried about being home sick, wondering if you’ll make friends or even a bit nervous about nighttime in the woods. 

Rest assured that summer camp staffs are experts at making kids feel at home in their new woodland environment right off the bat. 

Before you know it, that bunk-bed filled cabin will feel just like home and you’ll be mastering the mighty skills of Ga Ga ball and skimming over the lake in all kinds of water craft. 

Overnight summer camps are all about making school vacation the very best it can be; you’re lucky you’re going!

First Day Jitters
Whether your parents bring you or you take the bus, it can be a little overwhelming to arrive at camp. However, counselors will come to the rescue, shepherd you to your cabin, introduce your bunk mates, reassure your parents that you’ll be fine and hustle you off to any one of a variety of getting-to-know-you activities, camp tours and all sorts of fun that will quickly have you forgetting your first day jitters.

Waterfront Fun
Most likely, your camp will be situated on a lake and maybe have a heated pool for swimming lessons, which means you’ll be on, in and around the water a lot. At the beginning of camp, you’ll be tested to see where you belong in swimming lessons and any other activities that require a certain level of skill. After that, you’ll have scheduled lessons and activities that could include swimming, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, waterskiing, wakeboarding and even the latest craze, wake surfing. Counselors and instructors will always be on hand to help promote a safe, fun environment.

Land-Based Adventures
When you’re not out on the water, there’ll be plenty of fun and games going on. Most camps have a high and low ropes course that let campers experience lots of team-building exercises and physical challenges. Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, tent camping, rock climbing walls are among the amazing recreational activities you’ll experience at overnight summer camp.

Games Galore
From traditional camp games like dodge ball and color wars to regular sports like baseball, softball and basketball, you’ll play games galore at camp. Make new friends, develop friendly rivalries and maybe find a new sport you love.

Creative Streak
Yes, at camp you’ll get to tap into your creative side too. With activities like arts and crafts, pottery and woodworking shop, you’ll head home with a wealth of camp memorabilia and gifts for friends and family. Whip up a cool tied-dyed t-shirt, create a crafty mini-Ping Pong table or glaze pretty bowls; camp days can be endlessly creative. You may also find you love the performing arts when you venture into acting in a camp skit, leading the campfire sing-along or stepping out on the dance floor for a fun-filled night of square dancing. There’s something for everyone at overnight summer camp!

Campfire Sing-a-Longs
Day’s end is the best, when you gather with new friends, counselors and staff for traditional campfire activities. Listen to stories, sing traditional camp songs and listen to the special sounds of the woods as darkness falls after another exciting, unforgettable day at summer camp.

If you're considering sending your child to an overnight summer camp, 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.