Summer camp can be fun, educational, and a prime opportunity for growth. Kids can learn new skills and form new friendships. To make sure your child is ready for the experience, sometimes it can help to encourage sleepovers so they do not feel homesick being away for the first time at camp. Taking measures to ensure a healthy and safe experience can make all the difference.
See the Camp and Do Your Research
Take time to tour the camp and see where your child will be residing. “All sleeping facilities at a campsite should have working smoke alarms or detectors spaced within their specifications for the best protection,” says Donald Pannell, assistant fire marshal at the Memphis Fire Department. Ask questions of parents of kids who have attended the camp before and talk to the counselors. Read online reviews and make sure the camp is accredited by the American Camp Association. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that a good camp will require campers to have a physical and be up to date on vaccinations. You may want to inquire as to whether there is a doctor or nurse on site and find out what happens if a child is injured or does not feel well.
You Are Number One
Talk to your child about good self-care. Safe Kids Worldwide says campers should stay hydrated and remember that it can still be hot and humid even if the sky is cloudy. By drinking adequate water, they can avoid troubles like dehydration and heat stroke. Your child should also be mindful of his surroundings. This means using the buddy system, looking both ways before crossing the street, and not swimming unless there is an adult supervising, like a lifeguard or counselor. Find out if there is a packing list and be sure to remember things like flip-flops for showers and sunscreen.
Get Your Feet Wet
One of the best gifts you can give your child in addition to the summer camp experience is swim lessons. You want to consider age and maturity, as there is no right time to enroll. Safe Kids Worldwide says there are five water survival skills that kids should have before taking part in water-related activities at camp. They should be able to step or jump into water over their head and return to the surface; float or tread water for one minute; turn around in a full circle and find an exit; swim 25 yards to exit the water; and exit the water.
Keep in mind that swimming in open water is different from swimming in a pool. Surfaces may be uneven, and sometimes there are currents. “There is nothing like a great day out on the water, but Memphians need to be aware of the danger of electric-shock drowning and how it can be avoided, such as by not swimming near a boat, marina, or launching ramp,” says Pannell. The electrical current can put you at risk of electric-shock drowning. Learning CPR and other rescue skills can be life-saving.
Beware of Flames
A fun activity can become dangerous in a second without taking precautions. “Fire pits are known to be a great source of warmth and ambiance, but with the popularity of them increasing, fire safety has become even more important,” says Pannell. Grilling is another common cause of concern. While some camps try to keep fireworks as a tradition in July, it is best to leave that up to the professionals and not use consumer fireworks. “To avoid the risk of injury and property damage associated with consumer fireworks, join other community members in attending a public display put on by trained and licensed professionals,” Pannell says.
Know the Weather and Be in Touch
This is something an accredited camp should be aware of, but kids can also monitor this through apps if they are allowed to use technology. Some camps allow your child to write or call home, while others may be technology-free. Be sure to find out the camp’s system for communication in advance so you know what to expect.
Have an Action Plan
Accidents happen, and campers should know what to do in case of a fire. “Stop, drop, cover, and roll has been one of the most recognizable fire safety messages for decades, and many adults remember the concept from being introduced to it as a young child,” says Pannell. You want to emphasize to your child that the motto is only relevant when your clothing or body is on fire, and if the fire is at camp or in a building, they need to get out quickly. Covering someone with a blanket can also smother the fire.
When you talk to your child about health and safety ahead of time, they will have an easier time getting through summer camp.
Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics.