Camp care packages would be nice to send, but what should you put in it? What kinds of things would a kid who's already going to be pretty busy need or want? The first thing to do is check your child's camp's policy. Each camp differs on what they'll allow, varying from envelopes to boxes.
What Should Parents Include in a Care Package?
Games for rainy days are good to send, especially games that can be played with other campers. Make sure they're small and without too many loose pieces. Puzzles children can do by themselves, like Sudoku, can help pass quiet hours. Innocent pranks can be fun to send and for your child to receive. Think along the lines of whoopee cushions and disappearing ink.
Disposable cameras are a great way for your kid to capture memories of fun and friends while at summer camp. Memory books, which they can autograph and use to record addresses, are also good ideas.
You can also find a lot of items at your local dollar store, such as bubbles, chalk, glow sticks.
What Shouldn't Be Included?
Although food is probably the first thing you think of when putting together a camp care package, it may not be a good idea. Some camps ban food from being sent, as it can attract animals like squirrels and mice. Allergies of other campers should also be taken into consideration.
Camps also frown upon electronics being sent in camp care packages. Most camps focus on being outdoors and healthy, and cell phones and electronic games contradict that. Also, camps aren't responsible for a lost Sidekick, and your child may be too busy swimming and hiking to keep track of its whereabouts.
When Should the Packages Be Sent?
You want to give your kids a few days to settle in before they receive their care package. This way, they've had a chance to get used to their new surroundings and they're looking forward to something from home. At the same time, you don't want to send a camp care package so late that they don't receive it until the day they're supposed to leave! This can be hard to time when your camper is gone just one week. In that case, make sure they get it two or three days after arrival. Longer-running camps have a little more leeway with the time.
 | Summer camp can be a great learning experience for kids or a trying nightmare for child and parents. Learn the questions to ask so that you can make a choice that will satisfy your child. |
 | How can a parent determine if a summer camp is safe? The chance of harm is always a risk, even at the safest summer camp. Most camps are extremely safety conscious, and a parent can choose one that is especially vigilant. |
 | Going to overnight camp is an enriching experience for many kids. Certainly, your child's camp will send a packing list for what to pack for camp, but you can expect some of the following essentials to be on it. |
How do you compare summer basketball camps to know which is best for your child? Much of your decision should be based on whether your kid wants some fun and exercise or if she wants serious training for high school, college or even professional play. |
Teens looking for summer employment can apply for a host of summer camp jobs for teens. Most camps are looking for teens to be counselors, serving as role models to the younger campers and junior staff members. |
