Preparing for 2024 Summer Camps for Kids
Studies show that activity levels among young children drop by over 50% during the summer. Summer is the best time to be active, but without a routine and guidance, many kids just prefer to sit at home.
Los Angeles summer camps at Got Game Sports can help. Summer camps for kids help children stay active and healthy while they make new friends and learn new skills. They keep summer fun.
But how can you prepare your child for summer camp if they’ve never been before? Let’s talk about it. Read on to learn more.
Start Early Conversations
Is this going to be your child’s first time doing summer activities with someone else outside of their family or friend group? If so, you may want to start discussing it early. Summer camps for kids can be a lot of fun, but if your child is expecting to spend their summer at home, they may be caught off-guard when they have to go to summer camp instead.
Begin talking to your child about the upcoming summer camp well in advance. Discuss the activities they’ll get to try, friends they might make, and the exciting experiences they can look forward to. Address any concerns or fears they may have and provide reassurance.
This is more important for very young children or children who struggle with anxiety. Many older children won’t need the same level of reassurance, so use your best judgment as their parent.
Involve Them in the Decision-Making
If possible, involve your child in the decision-making process when it comes to joining a summer camp. This helps them feel a sense of ownership and excitement about the camp experience, and it may decrease their anxiety.
Discuss the various types of summer camps and let them have a say in what types of activities they’d like to try. We have a variety of summer camp activities available, so every child should be able to find at least a few things that they enjoy.
Review the Summer Camp Schedule
Go through the daily schedule and activities with your child. Many children benefit from having routines, and summer camp is fantastic for that.
Knowing what to expect can reduce your child’s anxiety and help them feel more comfortable about their time at summer camps in Los Angeles.
Highlight the fun aspects of the schedule to build excitement. Make sure to let your child know approximately when to expect lunchtime, when they arrive, and when they leave. If you have any questions about a child’s daily summer camp schedule, feel free to reach out so we can help.
Note that sometimes unexpected schedule changes can arise. Gently let your child know this as well so they can expect the unexpected.
Discuss Summer Camp Rules and Expectations
Talk about the camp rules and expectations for behavior (especially if you have a younger child). If your child is already in school, this will be easier. If not, or if they’ve been homeschooled, they may need some extra help learning how to behave at summer camp.
Emphasize the importance of respecting others, following instructions, and participating in activities (or, at the very least, trying). Understanding the rules in advance helps set clear expectations. Again, if you’re not sure what the rules are, please feel free to reach out!
Pack Together
Involve your child in packing their camp bag on the night before the first day. Depending on the camp’s requirements, pack essentials such as sunscreen, a water bottle, snacks, and any necessary gear. Label their belongings to prevent mix-ups.
Have your child help you shop for those things as well. Let them pick a new lunch box and some new summer clothes to get them excited for their first day at camp.
Make sure your child knows when to use some of the things in their bag (in this case, the sunscreen and water bottle). This will keep them healthy and happy during their days at camp!
Emphasize Positivity and Flexibility
Summer camps for kids require a certain level of flexibility and positivity (much like school). If your child isn’t yet in school, this may be new for them.
Discuss the importance of a positive attitude and being open to new experiences. Remind them that not every day may go as they expect it to, but flexibility and a positive mindset can turn challenges into opportunities for fun and learning.
Make sure your child understands that they may be trying new things. Camps are all about keeping kids busy and giving them fun new experiences.
Talk About Contact Methods
If your child isn’t used to being away from home during the day, they may worry about being able to contact you. We’ll have your information, so we’ll be able to get in touch if your child needs you, but it doesn’t hurt to ease your child’s anxieties before their first day at camp.
Provide your little one with any necessary contact information and discuss when and how communication will take place. If your child has a phone, make sure they know when it is and isn’t appropriate to use it.
Build Friendship and Socialization Skills
Socialization can be tough for kids, even if they’ve already been in school. Knowing that they’ll be spending their days around (mostly) strangers can be challenging. Even older kids sometimes struggle with this.
Encourage your child to be open to making new friends. Discuss the importance of kindness, inclusivity, and being a good listener. Friendship-building skills are valuable in creating a positive social experience when your child is going to summer camps.
Los Angeles Summer Camps Are a Blast
If you want your kid to stay busy this summer, Los Angeles summer camps at Got Game Sports are perfect for them. These tips will help you and your child prepare for a summer of fun, friendship, and new activities.
Is your child ready to have the best summer ever? At Got Game Sports, we have an awesome summer camp experience ready for them! With locations throughout the LA county, our camps are conveniently located near you. We also have winter camps, after-school programs, and more!
Register your child for summer camp today or reach out for more information about our camps at Hancock Park Elementary, Third Street Elementary, Hale Charter School, and Short Ave Elementary.