In a previous post I detailed the severe lack of space available at local summer camps for kids. Granted, we live in a small town, so it’s not too shocking that space is extremely tight, especially at reputable day camps for younger children. However, the aggressive approach some parents around here take to ensure their kid secures a spot on the registry is a whole other story, in my opinion.
Another option available for parents in my neck of the woods is overnight camp. Provided a child is of a certain age, there is the possibility of sending him or her to a full-blown sleep-away camp. However, before you take this step, it’s a good idea to discuss the idea with your son or daughter. Just because you might think it’s a great idea to spend two weeks away from home fishing, swimming, kayaking and making s’mores with a bunch of other kids, doesn’t mean your child will fully embrace the opportunity.
Some children mature quicker than others. If you feel that your child would have trouble being away from home for an extended period of time, then you might rethink sending him away for weeks at a time. To help determine whether or not a sleep-away camp is appropriate for your child, consider the following:
*Has your child ever been away from home overnight?
*How has your child handled the time away from home?
*Is your child enthusiastic about idea of attending sleep-away camp or are you trying to cajole him to go?
*Will your child know anyone else at the camp, such as a sibling, cousin, neighbor or friend?
*Is your child currently going through a challenging time? A period of crisis or transition is not the best time to introduce a sleep-away camp.
You know your child best. By taking cues from your son or daughter you will better be able to determine if he or she is ready to make the move from day camp to sleep-away camp.
How old was your child when he or she attended sleep-away camp for the first time?
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