Coping with the First-Time Camp Experiences
"As parents, recognizing that you and your
child are on a journey together, growing, learning, and
experiencing the ages and stages of growing up in a parallel yet
separate way are key to adequately preparing yourself and your
child for any type of separation, including going to camp for the
first time," states Peg Smith, executive director of the
American Camping Association (ACA).
Follow are tips to consider as you ask yourself, "Who's going
through separation anxiety, me or my child?"
Separation is a part of growing up. Find
opportunities to give your child independence in safe, structured
surroundings with caring adults such as the camp environment.
Healthy separation prepares your child to be a confident,
productive adult.
Understand that separation is natural and
necessary; remember your baby's first crawl, the first time your
child stepped onto a school bus, and the overnight at a friend's
or relative's - these memories are all important developmental
phases you and your child successfully encountered. Each
successful separation gives your child confidence for the next
challenge.
- Implement steps to help prepare you and your
child to have a smooth transition to camp by using the tips in
"Preparing Children for the Summer camp Experience."
Both parents and children benefit from these recommendations.
- Ask the right questions about the camp you
are choosing for your child and be sure to match your child's
interest and age to the appropriate camp atmosphere. "How
to Choose a Camp" can give you helpful ideas about what
questions to ask.
- Recognize separating from your child may be
just as difficult for you as for your child, maybe even more
so.
"I often wonder who is being prepared
during each incremental separation experience throughout a child's
life - the growing child or the maturing adult," comments
Smith.
Founded in 1910, ACA is a national community of
camp professionals and is dedicated to enriching the lives of
children and adults through the camp experience. ACA recognizes
that camp experience as a significant contributor to positive
child and youth development. In addition, it is the only
organization that accredits all types of camps based on 300
standards for health, safety and program quality. For more
information visit the ACA Web site, www.ACAcamps.org,
or call 1-800-428-CAMP.
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