Preparing your child for summer camp is an important step in making sure they have a safe, fun, and enriching experience. The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges is sharing these tips to help you and your child feel camp ready, more comfortable in a new environment, and less anxious about the transition.
Help them practice skills like making their bed or choosing outfits.
Encourage them to order their own food at restaurants or ask for help when needed.
Find a camp buddy if they know someone else attending.
Remind them that counselors are there to help if they feel homesick.
Remind them that they’ll gain new skills, make friends, and have stories to share.
If your child is participating in camp for the first time or is a returning camper, the importance of making friends and fitting in is an important part of the camp experience. Here are a few helpful hints to keep in mind when talking about camp and making friends in a new environment.
Remind them that camp is designed to help kids make friends through fun activities.
Encourage a positive mindset—making friends is about being friendly, not perfect.
Smile, make eye contact, be a good listener and be curious, ask questions.
Offer to share or help—it’s an easy way to bond with new friends.
Encourage patience and keeping an open mind about different personalities.
If one group isn’t a good fit, remind them there are plenty of other campers to meet.
If they feel nervous, taking a deep breath and smiling can help.
If they don’t click with someone, they can always try talking to someone else.
Remind them to be kind and include others who may also be feeling nervous.
Complimenting someone’s cool T-shirt or skills can be a great icebreaker.
Camp provides opportunities for children to move out of their comfort zone but that is not always easy. Here are a few helpful hints that can help those children that might be hesitant and need encouragement.
Bravery doesn’t mean they aren’t scared; it means they try anyway.
Share a time when you tried something new and how it turned out.
Reassure them that camp is a safe place to explore and have fun.
Encourage a “just give it a shot” mindset rather than worrying about doing it right.
Talk about how new experiences can lead to fun surprises.
If they’re nervous about an activity, suggest watching it first before joining in.
Remind them that counselors and friends will be there to help.
“I can do this!”
“It’s okay if I’m not great at it the first time.”
“Trying something new helps me grow!”
Help them reframe fear as excitement—"I feel nervous, but that means I’m being brave!"
Let them know that mistakes and learning are part of the adventure.
Assure them that others may feel the same way, and they’re not alone.
Focus on their effort rather than the outcome.
Plan a fun chat after camp where they can share what they tried and how it felt.
Ask them to pick one new thing they want to try each day.
Create a small reward system (like telling them they get a high-five or special treat when they get home for being brave).
With encouragement, preparation, and open conversation, camp can become a positive and rewarding experience for both children and families. A little support at home can help children feel more confident, build new friendships, and feel ready to try new things. At the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges, camp is more than a summer activity. It is an opportunity for children to grow, gain independence, and create lasting memories in a safe and supportive environment. As camp approaches, remember that every small step you take now can help your child feel ready for a season of discovery, connection, and fun.