Putting Together a Wardrobe for Summer Camp

Packing for summer camp is always exciting, and having the perfect wardrobe is important for keeping kids comfortable while they are away from home. Although they want to be stylish, camp is not the time to worry about wearing their most expensive or trendy clothing because it’s a guarantee that your child will be engaged in a lot of outdoor activities. As you prepare your packing list, here is what you need to know about putting together a wardrobe for summer camp that will cover every activity while still showing off your kid’s personal style.

Choose Practical Daily Wear

Summer camp is a time where kids toss aside their school wardrobes, and swimsuits become normal daily attire. Since your son or daughter will be hiking, fishing and going on overnight camping trips, it is important to choose simple clothing that is durable enough to survive a little bit of extra dirt. Shorts, t-shirts and tank tops are perfect for your kid to wear every day, and your camp will tell you about how many of each to bring so that your kid can have something clean to wear between laundry days.

Select Appropriate Water Clothing

Water sports are another important part of camp that will require some careful attention to the choices you make with your child. While your daughter may have her eye on that trendy bikini, it is not going to survive a white water rafting ride or provide much protection from the sun. Instead, opt for a one-piece, and look for fabrics that include sun protection. For boys, a sturdy pair of swim shorts with a button or shoestring tie will help keep them on during those daily water skiing lessons.

Add Something Warm for Evening Activities

Kids usually stay warm during the day as they enjoy their outdoor activities, but the evenings can get a little cool. Make sure they have a warm jacket or sweater to wear as they gather around the campfire in the evenings or go for a late afternoon trek through the wilderness. A robe is also an excellent choice for kids to wrap up in while they unwind in their cabins before bed.

Focus on Footwear

Proper footwear is important for kids to get the most out of their camp experience. Flip flops make great shower shoes and will give them something quick to throw on as they walk through the cabin. However, they will also need to bring skid-proof tennis shoes or hiking boots that can withstand long distance treks on uneven terrain. If your son or daughter will be participating in a sport, then make sure that you also prepare to send cleats and other types of gear that pertains to their athletic interests.

Have Fun with Camp Brands

Summer camps also offer branded items that can be ordered for kids before they arrive for the season. These items usually fit easily into a camp-friendly wardrobe, and having a new shirt or hat touting their camp’s name builds camaraderie among the campers. For many families, this offers an option for adding something new to the wardrobe that is budget-friendly yet has enough of the cool factor to make kids happy.

Always remember to check your kid’s camp packing guide to find out if any special items of clothing are needed. But keep in mind that this is one summer vacation where the “keep it simple” rule is important to follow. By carefully putting together your kid’s wardrobe, they can comfortably participate in their favorite activities while knowing that they have exactly what they need to wear no matter what new adventure is on the schedule.

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. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/about-sleepaway-summer-camp.html

Introduce Your Kids to Zip Lining for Improved Self-Confidence

Instilling self-confidence in your children is one of the most important jobs you are entrusted with as a parent. While you know that using positive guidance helps build self-esteem, it is sometimes hard to come up with new ways to build confidence in children who need a little push to get out of their comfort zone. Zip lining is one activity that has grown in popularity, and the cool factor will be all it takes to get your child eager to step out into new territory that rewards taking a safe risk.

Learn to Conquer Fears

Many kids have a natural fear of heights that causes them to be apprehensive about climbing into a zip line harness. Yet, it is hard to resist the thrill of a new adventure. During their introduction to zip lining, the staff always spends time talking to kids about the different pieces of equipment that are designed to keep them safe. Kids are also allowed to practice skills that build up to the big moment such as putting on their harness and zipping down a lower line. As kids gain familiarity with zip lining, their fears recede, and it only takes a few moments of soaring through the air before most of them completely forget why they were ever scared in the first place.

Developing Trust in a Safe Environment

Introducing a kid to zip lining should always be done in a safe and supportive environment. Summer camps offer zip lining because they know how exciting it is for kids to literally reach new heights while also building their ability to trust in themselves and others. They are never forced to go on a zip line until they are ready. Instead, they are encouraged to take on the challenge by positive interactions with their peers and the crew. On a summer camp zip line course, kids who are new to the sport get the opportunity to watch experienced campers take the leap first while receiving encouragement from everyone in their group when they are ready to give it a try.

Enjoy a Sense of Accomplishment

The benefits of zip lining are instant since a kid’s confidence begins to soar as soon as they step off the platform. Feeling a sense of awe as they take in the scenery is a huge reward for taking a leap of faith, and kids quickly gain a sense of control since they can slow down their ride along the length of the course or let go to enjoy a faster zip down the line. Once they complete their zip line, the other members of their group are always eager to celebrate their big moment with enthusiasm. Over time, many kids begin to seek out new opportunities for zip lining that takes them to greater heights and to exciting new landscapes.

Taking safe risks and conquering new challenges is important for building a kid’s self-confidence. The confidence a kid learns on a zip line also extends to other areas of their life since knowing that they can beat their fears helps them with public speaking, learning a new academic skill and practicing leadership in sports. By allowing your child the opportunity to see the world from a bird’s-eye view, you provide them with a new perspective on their ability to accomplish anything they set their mind out to do.

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. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/about-sleepaway-summer-camp.html

5 Life Skills Kids Learn in Summer Camp Drama Class

Aspiring actors have the unique opportunity to hone their skills in drama classes at summer camp. Not only do these classes serve as a fun diversion from their usual school day, but they also provide the perfect chance to learn skills that will last a lifetime. Preparing for a play and performing for an audience takes both dedication and courage, and your child benefits from learning these five life skills every time they take center stage.

See Other Perspectives

Getting into character requires putting on someone else’s shoes and seeing the world through their eyes. Whether a child is portraying an optimistic orphan or a misunderstood ogre, they have to stretch their imaginations to understand how their character would behave. The ability to empathize with others transfers to becoming a people person that excels in school and work experiences.

Improve Poise

When performing, it is often necessary to think on one’s feet since anything could happen. If a fellow actor forgets their lines, your child may have to pick up the beat. In acting class, kids also learn how to control their body language to support the script. As they do, your child will know how to properly express their emotions. From giving a bow to express gratitude for applause to smiling through their stage fright, acting lessons emphasize the effect that every movement makes on the audience.

Learn to Cooperate as a Team

Many kids struggle with working in a group, and sports are not the only place to help them learn the value of teamwork. For every play that goes on, there is a team of kids that all must work together to make sure the show runs smoothly. While some kids may act, others may play supporting roles through designing the set or planning the costumes. Regardless of what role a child plays, communication is key to a successful performance.

Develop Public Speaking Skills

Speaking to a large group is still a fear among many adults, yet it is critical to career success today. Drama class teaches kids the fundamentals of speech such as how to project their voice and stay calm when standing before an audience. With public speaking, practice really does make perfect. Performing in a play at summer camp also provides a supportive audience full of a kid’s peers and family which makes it a little easier to stand before a crowd for the first time.

Increase Self-Confidence

Acting coaches at camp have the honor of watching as kids go from fumbling through their lines to playing their role like a pro in front of an audience. With every line that is mastered and every successful show, kids develop self-confidence that they carry with them throughout their lives. In time, even the shyest kid asks to take their chance in the spotlight, and parents always notice the difference by the time the final curtain falls.

The idea that art can influence life has long been in existence, and drama classes at camp allow kids to express their creativity while building their confidence in front of an audience. While your kid may just think they are having fun in their drama program, you will know that they are learning skills that they will use throughout their life.

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. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/camp-arts-program.html

Building Memories at Summer Camp

Summer represents a time full of possibilities for kids to expand their horizons and make beautiful memories and summer camp offers the perfect environment for kids to truly tap into their interests and connect with others. Today, summer camp adventures range from traditional activities such as campfire songs to volunteer opportunities and multi-day excursions into the wilderness. In fact, going to summer camp helps kids build beautiful childhood memories by stimulating their growth and development in the following areas:

Conquering Challenges

Learning how to overcome fear and accomplish goals is an important part of childhood that often leads to some of the strongest memories. Whether a child has never jumped off a diving board before or spent the night in the wilderness, they will be provided with support from caring members of the summer camp team along with their peers until they reach their goal. Remembering how they scored their first soccer goal or swam across the lake strengthens a child’s self-esteem and encourages them to tackle bigger challenges as they approach adulthood.

Forming Diverse Friendships

Ask any child about their time in summer camp and you will be inundated with stories involving their friends. At summer camp, kids come to stay from all over the world, giving your child the opportunity to form friendships with their peers from all different types of backgrounds. From silly camp pranks to late night chats in the cabin, summer camp friendships are the kind that can only be formed through long hours spent together. Over the course of the summer, kids cherish these friends like family and share memories throughout the year as they keep in touch.

Participating in Creative Pursuits

Summer camp is a place where kids tend to blossom and it is not uncommon for a family to discover that their wallflower has suddenly transformed into an amazing dancer at a camp dance recital. Camp crafts, such as pottery and jewelry making, also provide kids with an outlet for creative expression that leaves them with a tangible object that reminds them of their days at camp. Often, these creative opportunities lead to lifelong interests in music and art that kids always remember began at summer camp.

Strengthening Family Bonds

It may seem strange to think that going away for the summer will help a child bond with their family, but it really is true that absence makes the heart grow fonder. At summer camp, kids gain independence that provides them with a different understanding of the importance of family. Summer camps also offer fun family days during which siblings and parents can observe and participate in some of their kid’s favorite camp activities. Family camps often top off the end of the season with a weeklong adventure that allows families to form amazing memories as they indulge their playful sides in an outdoor environment.

Summer camp memories fill scrapbooks, online albums and most importantly hearts with all of the wonderful activities that took place during the season. At camp, kids spend every moment of the day engaged in activities that stimulate their mental and physical development. From forming close friendships to gaining new skills, the memories made at camp last a lifetime.

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. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/about-sleepaway-summer-camp.html

Fun Things to Do During Summer

Summer and fun pretty much go hand-in-hand for youngsters, whether they’re off to summer camp, taking a family vacation, building endless sand castles at the beach or just biking around the neighborhood. But with many parents working and lots of kids in organized daytime activities from recreation programs to specialized camps, it’s fun to plan some special days for family fun.

Plan a Day Trip

You don’t have to travel far to have fun as a family; a key component is letting the kids get in on the planning phase. Surf around the Internet or leaf through some brochures for nearby attractions or activities. If you have several youngsters, it’s a great lesson in compromise and team work to come up with an itinerary that will please everyone. Whether it’s the local zoo, a historic attraction or an amusement park or a combination of a bunch of places, the key component is that everyone has a little invested in the trip and it’s a real group effort for a day of family fun.

Water, Water Anywhere

You have to do it in summer; head to the water, no matter where you live. Pack it up for the day and head out to the beach, the lake, the local pool or even a splash park. Let your youngsters help assemble a picnic lunch and snacks and, if you have room, take along a friend or two to keep older kids entertained.

Back to Nature

It’s been found that kids exposed early to nature grow up with a great respect for the planet and all its life forms. Find a kid-friendly activity that will get your youngster up close and personal with the fascinating wildlife in your locale. Nature trails, zoos, hiking paths, ponds, beaches and rivers all present bountiful opportunities to observe even the tiniest of life forms. Try your hand (or ear) at identifying various bird calls, look for starfish in tide pools or check out the fascinating variety of life forms that have taken up residence under fallen logs.

Old Fashioned Fun

Try out the old-time tradition of the neighborhood block party. It’s a great way to meet the folks around you that you may not already know, and the multi-generational aspect is great for kids and old timers alike. Walk around the neighborhood with your children and pass out flyers they’ve helped design. Keep the menu summery and simple, allowing everyone to contribute; think hot dogs and hamburgers, potato salad and loads of watermelon and ice cream! If it’s permissible in your state, have a few sparklers and back yard fireworks at the end for a truly festive flair. There will likely be flocks of kids running through the dark while the grown-ups chat and enjoy the balmy summer evening.

When the Stars Come Out

Have you ever noticed how different the sky looks whey you just lay flat on your back and gaze upwards? Pick a clear night and set out some blankets in the back yard and just relax and pick out the constellations with your child. If you don’t know the stars well yourself, do a bit of research. Older children may enjoy helping look up the constellations and learning the stories behind the names. If you have an observatory nearby, check out the schedule of viewings. Kids are fascinated by the wonders of space.

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. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/our-location.html

Cooking Classes at Summer Camp

Summer camp is known for being a place where kids can explore new interests, while benefiting from the experience of a trained instructor, and cooking classes are one more fun way for kids to learn skills at camp that they will use for a lifetime. Cooking at camp goes well beyond roasting hot dogs over a campfire. In fact, kids at camp get to enjoy state-of-the-art equipment as they practice their culinary skills. While they may think they’re simply having fun, you can enjoy knowing that they are gaining the following benefits from their summer camp cooking classes.

Strengthen Math Skills

Many kids struggle with challenging mathematical skills such as adding fractions. In the camp kitchen, opportunities to practice these critical skills are everywhere. For example, kids often have to add or multiply fractions when they are increasing a recipe. Weighing ingredients, converting between the metric and imperial measuring systems and calculating cooking times are all ways kids learn math in the kitchen.

Experiment with Science

The science involved in the cooking process is often overlooked, yet every recipe is a chance for kids to learn about chemistry, physics and nutrition. From learning about the Maillard reaction as they brown meat to using salt to lower the freezing point of ice, kids will have fun while also learning essential science concepts. The best part about learning science in the kitchen is that it is the one time when kids can eat the final product. Camp cooking classes also foster an environment where they are more willing to try new foods and learn about the importance of good nutrition for their health.

Develop Greater Independence

Parents are often surprised at how much growing up their kids do over the summer and cooking classes at camp are a big part of them developing more independence. In the camp kitchen, kids are responsible for prepping ingredients, cooking meals and cleaning it all up afterwards. Since everyone is required to help out, kids naturally take on greater responsibilities that give them a sense of pride.

Nurture Creativity and Self-Confidence

The difference between a regular cook and an excellent chef is the ability to combine ingredients into creative new recipes. At summer camp cooking classes, kids have a safe place where they can take risks with their culinary skills. If a recipe doesn’t work out, all that is lost is a little time and a few ingredients. Yet, even a recipe that doesn’t turn out right is not a failure since kids learn from what went wrong and go on to recreate the dish using their findings. Many new recipes have been created in a camp kitchen and kids gain self-confidence when they can share their signature dish with others.

Taking cooking classes at summer camp helps kids round out their active schedule with an activity that teaches skills they will use throughout their lives. While it may seem like a fun way to enhance the typical camper’s menu, kids who take cooking classes learn academic and social skills that are best taught in the exciting and interactive environment offered by the camp kitchen. From pulling apart fresh baked monkey bread to making granola bars to share with friends on the trail, each cooking class at summer camp is always a new adventure.

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. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/about-sleepaway-summer-camp.html

Five Tips for Encouraging a Love of Sports in Kids

Kids should be outside and active at least sixty minutes a day and getting involved in a recreational sport encourages social, physical and emotional development as well as good healthy living habits. Whether your youngster has already expressed excitement over playing a particular sport or whether you sign him up for soccer or baseball just so he can check it out, involvement in sports can help nurture an interest in constructive after-school activities or even be the start of a lifelong passion.

Talk It Up

Before heading to sign-ups, talk to your youngster about what kind of athletics might interest her. If the answer is a vague “nothing”, talk about what kind of related activities she likes and offer some ideas. A kid who’s turning summersaults all the time might like gymnastics, while a youngster who loves the water may enjoy competitive swimming. If your child is seven or over, make sure he understands the commitment of signing up for a sport and knows that you expect him to stay in for the season, even if it’s a bit more difficult than he anticipated.

Keep Things Upbeat

Once you’ve got your youngster out on the playing field, keep it positive; be your child’s cheerleader and emphasize what she’s doing right and how hard she’s trying. Be sure to tell her no one’s perfect and everyone makes mistakes. Not every child is an all-star, but most can come to love the camaraderie of the team and the joy of just getting out and playing. Support all his athletic endeavors as long as he enjoys playing. Excelling is not a requirement. As long as your child is having fun, developing into a team player and embracing the challenge of learning new skills, she can enjoy and benefit from participation in sports. Stay involved, ask what was learned at practice and try to cushion any corrections with five specific instances of what you saw her do right.

Pick a Few

Concentrating on one sport can tend to become too intense for young children, while signing up for every kiddie athletic activity you see can make your youngster too busy to actually fully enjoy any of them. Two or three sports a year is usually a good number. Your budding athlete will learn a broad range of skills and start to figure out what sport if any they’d like to concentrate on down the road.

Investigate the Options

Before you sign up for the season, try to figure out if this particular sports program is a good fit for your child’s personality and abilities. Youth athletic programs differ widely. For instance, some emphasize participation by everyone while others only play the best athletes on the team. Try to see the coach in action or watch a practice, so you can get an idea of what kind of experience your child will be having. When kids are young, the philosophy of doing the best you can rather than having to be the top player on the team will do far more to encourage your child to truly love sports.

Time Out

No matter how much your child loves a sport, make sure she has some time away from it during the week. Children need a variety of activities outside of school and sports, including time for family, friends, chores and homework. Make sure your youngster has a well-rounded life off the playing field.

If you're considering sending your child to an overnight summer camp for a sports experience, 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. Check out the sports program here: http://www.campwalt.com/summer-camp-sports.html

Teaching Kids How to Swim

There’s no doubt that learning how to swim is an important part of childhood, both from the standpoints of safety and fun. Most kids are around water at some point in their lives, whether playing in the backyard pool, at the beach, boating or just walking down a dock or fishing by a lake. It only takes a moment for a drowning to occur, so every parent should be sure their child knows the rudiments of staying afloat. All that aside, swimming is one of the true joys of summer for kids of all ages. There are abundant opportunities for your child to learn this all-important skill.

At Summer Camp

Pretty much every summer camp, even specialty camps, include swimming lessons as part of their slate of programs. Many camps use the techniques and standards of the American Red Cross, with skilled, certified instructors guiding youngsters through all the levels of swimming instruction from beginner to advanced. Kids are tested at the start of camp for level placement and can move up as their abilities improve. You can find excellent swimming programs at both day camps and sleepaway camps. Look for small class sizes so your little camper can get a more individualized level of instruction along with some good old fashioned summertime fun. Many camps, even if situated by a lake, will have a heated outdoor pool for more comfortable swimming lessons. Early morning lake water can be a bit of a shock!

At Community Centers

Community centers and YMCAs across the country are super places to send kids for swimming lessons. Do a little research to see how instructors are certified prior to registering your child. Many facilities start children as young as 18 months (with a parent), so you can be right there with your child as he or she becomes used to the water and eventually learns the rudiments of staying afloat. Programs for kids up to three are generally all about swimming readiness. The American Academy of Pediatrics doesn’t recommend formal swimming lessons until the age of four when kids are developmentally ready to learn the skills needed to actually stay afloat. Once they’re six, most youngsters can start to learn all the basic strokes including the crawl, back stroke and breast stroke. Many programs move all the way from toddler up to expert levels and may have locally-based swim teams to satisfy the competitive streak of accomplished swimmers.

With You

Lots of parents choose to teach their kids the basics of swimming themselves, especially if the family has a backyard pool or spends a lot of time at the beach. Kids who are comfortable when immersed in the water can usually pick up the basics of staying afloat and moving through the water fairly easily. Unfortunately, youngsters who have had a scare or two in the water may have a bit more difficulty overcoming apprehension about being in deeper water or putting their face in the water. Patience is key in overcoming this. Remember, even if your child does well swimming in a pool, it may not translate perfectly to the beach or lake. Always keep a close eye on young children around the water and always have them wear a life vest when boating even if they are skilled swimmers.

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. Check out our water sports program here: http://www.campwalt.com/summer-camp-water-sports.html

Making Kids' Summer Extra Fun

Summer is the best time for kids to enjoy, explore nature and step out their comfort zone. However, one of the most challenging role of working parents is promoting a healthy way for kids to have fun. The solution? Send your kids to overnight summer camp. Here are few reasons why sending kids to camp can make their summer extra fun in a safe environment. 

Making New Friends At Camp: Is It Easy?

The most special memories of summer camp are shared with new found friends. The friendship at camp is unique as kids relates to each other without the pressure of the parents or teachers. They have the freedom to choose who they can easily relate with from the hot days of swimming to sailing, craft creating activities, campfires and the cabin chitchats. For first time campers, parents often wonder if their kids can easily make friends. Of course, some variables should be considered in socializing with others such as how outgoing your child is. Here are some camp counselor advice on how to teach kids to easily relate with other children at summer camp.

Checking Out the Culture of an Overnight Summer Camp

So, your child will be taking the big step this summer to spending hot, happy months at sleepaway camp. There are of course many things to take into consideration when choosing an overnight camp, but perhaps one of the most important from the standpoint of each individual child is the overall culture of the camp. Is it more geared toward sports? Is it large or small? What kinds of kids tend to go? Will your youngster feel like he’ll fit in? Although there’s no way to guarantee a great camp experience, there are a few ways you can get a feel for the overall “vibe” of camp life.

Ask Around

Although you’ll have to take into consideration the source of any information, it’s a great idea to check with other parents of campers at a potential camp. Often, your child will have classmates or neighbors who have attended the camp, particularly if it’s not that far away. Of course one child’s idea of camp heaven may be quite different from another’s, but you can get an overall impression of camper/counselor interaction, how engaged kids are in camp activities, safety and supervision. If lots of parents report their child can’t wait until next summer, you’ve probably got a winner.

Traditional or Modern?

With the incredible amount of camps out there, you can choose anything from rustic lakeside retreats with few of the luxuries of home to upscale modern summer meccas with everything from Internet access to cell phone privileges. Clearly, the culture of a camp brimming with contemporary comforts will be far different from that of a traditional style sleepaway camp.

Peruse the Websites

Needless to say, every camp is putting its best foot - or hiking boot – forward on the Internet, but these websites are super places to get basics like camper/counselor ratio, camp size, amount of kids in each cabin, a typical day at camp, rules on communicating with home and amount of structure. If you feel your child would be lost in the crowds of a big camp and might do better with small groups, or if they might flounder with too much unstructured time, you can look for camps set up for smaller groups of campers and a more structured schedule of activities. See if you can find out the return rate of campers, summer after summer; it says a lot about the camp’s overall culture.

Take a Camp Tour

Pile the family in the car and take a summer camp tour the summer before your child will go to camp. This is where good planning comes in, as you’ll want to go while camp’s in session to get the best feel for the overall “vibe” of the place. Naturally, the tour guide will be showing all the high points, but try to see if your child can get a chance to chat with some of the campers. Look around. Do the kids seem happy and engaged in the activities? Are the counselors enthusiastic and involved? Are the facilities clean and well-maintained? Do waterfront activities in particular seem well supervised? Ask plenty of questions of camp staff; you’ll have your own unique concerns for your child. Once you’re back in the car, listen carefully to your child’s feelings about the camp, and don’t let your own enthusiasm or lack thereof influence his or her decision; she’ll be the one spending the summer there, not you!

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.

The Very Best Way for Kids to Spend the Summer

Summers should be an idyllic time in childhood when a child has the opportunity to stretch out of their comfort zone and reach their full potential. Yet, finding healthy ways to keep your kids engaged during the summer months can be one of the most challenging parenting tasks you face, especially if you work during the day. If you are tired of hearing those whines of boredom or listening to the constant drone of video games playing in the background, then here are just a few of the reasons why camp is the perfect way for your kids to spend their summer break.

Build Physical Strength and Stamina

Texting and video gaming do little more than work out your child’s thumbs, and all of that extra energy never gets dispersed. At camp, kids enjoy days that are packed with physical activity. Canoeing, wakeboarding, hiking and rock climbing are all just normal things for campers to do on a beautiful summer day. By the end of the summer, kids are not only stronger, but they also understand how to direct their energy toward positive activities that enable them to learn new skills.

Increase Independence and Confidence

Sure, going to camp for the first time is hard, and homesickness is a real thing. However, those nervous feelings usually only last for a short time, and kids feel a major sense of accomplishment after they complete their first week. As kids progress through the different levels of camp, they also gain confidence from helping younger campers adjust to the new routine. Additionally, spending a few weeks away from home helps children to enjoy greater independence while still being surrounded by a support network of friends and camp counselors.

Develop a Talent

Do you have a budding actor or perhaps an avid guitarist? These early childhood interests can often turn into lifelong hobbies and even careers when kids are given the tools they need to explore their strengths. The summer months offer a chance for kids to explore their interests while unimpeded by academic studies. For this reason, summer camps are full of programs dedicated to the arts. Putting on a play, performing with a band and making pottery are all creative endeavors that can allow your child to tap into a talent.

Form Lifelong Friendships

During the school year, kids spend the majority of the day with children from their neighborhood. While it is great to have local friends, going to camp can expand a child’s opportunities to appreciate diversity. Experiences such as learning how to work out differences with members of their Cabin Group and singing around the campfire help children to form long-lasting friendships with peers from all over the world.

When the school doors close for the summer, children look forward to several months of freedom. However, it is important to make sure those long summer days are filled with wholesome activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Keeping your kids busy throughout the summer is easy with camp activities that encourage your kids to conquer challenges and build greater self-esteem.

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.