Boys Summer Camp: Tips for Worried Parents

Summer time means freedom from school, endless sunny days, and a good deal of rough housing in your kitchen, living room, and hallways for months. Not to worry, there's a boys summer camp for that. But even as you get ready to ship them off to camp and regain some of your own sanity, it's natural to feel nervous. They're your kids, as crazy as they can be sometimes, you want what's best for them. However, much of your worrying will be ineffective at helping your boy have the experience of a lifetime, so relax! Here are some tips to handle preparing for camp:

1. It's ok to pack light.
   We know you've got an ever-expanding mental list of things your child may need at camp, but let it go. Don't burden yourself or their growing bodies with pounds of unnecessary-but-possibly-helpful items. They'll be on the go most of the day, and anything they don't need is just going to clutter up their small cabin space. It's highly unlikely they will use or need everything you want to pack for them “just in case.”
    
2. Say no to obsessing.
   Though you may want to call camp each day while checking their website photo gallery for updates every couple of hours, it's better for both you and your boy if you don't. Trust your decision to give him an independent experience in a safe, engaging environment, and practice healthy habits. Send letters, email, or call as appropriate.
    
3. The magic of packaging.
   Your parental instinct to nurture and provide doesn't have to be completely shut off. Small actions can be a great benefit for your child's camp experience. Some parents pack each day's outfit or activity-specific outfits in single bags to help with organization, making kids feel more in control. Labels go a long way in helping kids know where everything is during the flurry of activities.
    
4. Take this time for yourself.
   Your boy’s summer camp participants shouldn't be the only ones having fun. Before you know it, they'll be back, so while you're helping your boys plan and pack for camp, don't forget to schedule some time for yourself. Late night movies, book reading, home renovations, mid-day spa trips, dinner dates with friends, and mini vacations are all excellent options, and you should indulge in at least one. It's not a celebration that your boys are gone, it's well-deserved self-love.
    
5. Understand adjustment time.
   For kids who are first-time campers, the whole sleep-away experience can be daunting. But don't panic and rush to pick them up if they decide they can't handle it the first night or two. Give your boy time to adjust to a new schedule and realize he is capable of having this experience. Talk with camp staff beforehand if you feel your son will need extra help to feel calm and enjoy his time away from home.
    

The growth process is never comfortable, for parent or child, but it's one hundred percent worth it. Doing research into your chosen camp program and involving your boy in the choice process can go a long way in relieving fears about the overall experience. Prepare both you and your son as best you can, and then put your energies into having fulfilling you time. If you allow it, summer camp can prove to be rewarding in more ways than one.