» Talk to your child about camp and what it’s all about. While you can’t prepare your child for everything, you can give him/her some idea of what to expect. Fear of the unknown is usually the biggest concern for children attending camp. Practicing a typical day at camp may provide some reassurance and self-confidence; try walking outside in the dark with a flashlight, making the bed, brushing teeth, placing laundry in a laundry bag, going to the bathroom with the toiletries kit, and showering independently. Make sure they know that recreation activities are optional as some are nervous about high ropes, swimming, etc....

» As parents we often make little promises to our children in order to alleviate their fears. It can be devastating to a camper if those promises aren’t met. Some examples:

» Don’t tell your child you will talk to him or her on the phone.

» Don’t tell them it won’t rain and that there are no bugs.

» Don’t tell your children you’ll come pick them up if they don’t like camp.

» Instead of making promises, encourage them to be confident in the Lord while at camp.

» We highly encourage you and your child to pack together. If you pack your child’s things, please take 10 minutes to go over everything in their bag with, locating things and making sure they feel prepared. If your child packs their own bag make sure they have everything they need and that they have not packed things they should not bring.

» Label Everything. It’s easy to lose things at camp, but if you want it back, it’s got to have your name on it. Label t-shirts, towels, pillow cases, and anything else important. Leave expensive or sentimental items at home when possible (i.e. grandma’s jewelry or a special Bible). Most children lose something at camp, so remind yours to check the lost-and-found on closing day.

» Include plastic bags or a laundry bag for wet or dirty clothing. “Containerize” smaller items when packing.

» Put similar things together in see-through travel bags, zip-locks or plastic units so that they are easy to find and keep organized.

» Like the rest of life, camp will probably have its high and low points. Remind them that the main purpose of camp is to make friends and have fun while learning more about God. Set up a “thinking about you” time: you and your child will think about each other every day at breakfast, when you see the first star of the night, or when you brush your teeth. Let your children know they are going to have the time of their life.

» Start camp off on a smooth note by arriving on time and on the right day. Use a wall calendar in the months prior to Welcome Day to make an exciting count-down to the big day.

» As your child prepares for their first camp experience, be sure to talk with them about any uneasiness. Do not assume you know how they feel. Instead, ask questions that will help them explore what they are feeling as the time for camp approaches. Ask open ended questions, “What are you looking forward to? Is there anything you are unsure about?”. Answer questions with confidence in their ability to handle being away from home. Assure them that they will be well cared for while at camp.

» We highly recommend this for new campers who are going away to camp for the first time. Have your child do an overnight at Grandma’s and Grandpa’s house or another close friend’s house without you. This will give your camper some experience in being away from home before heading off to camp.

» Set aside some time at meals or before bed to pray with your child about camp. Pray for your children’s cabin mates, counselors, the Bible studies they will participate in, the activities they will do, and for safety while at camp. All of our counselors at Lake Forest Ranch make sure to set aside some time to meet with each child one-on-one. Pray that the time your child spends with their counselor is meaningful.