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The transition from day to sleepaway camp is a big one. Based
on our experience, a child starts inquiring about this new oppor-
tunity as early as 1st or 2nd grade and as late as 6th or 7th grade.
The following tips will help you (and your child) decide if this is
the summer to "spread his/her wings" and try a sleepaway pro-
gram:
1. Listen to your child and to his/her friends. If they are express-
ing interest in attending sleepaway camp, then the time has come
to call a consultant and begin the exploration process. Likewise,
if your child is not looking forward to returning to day camp, it
may be time to discuss the advantages of sleepaway camp.
2. After narrowing the list of potential sleepaway camps to 2 or 3, arrange
to visit the camps in session or during an open house, if possi-
ble, or invite the director to your home. Your consultant will
assist you in selecting the camps and even in planning for your
tours or home visits. Alternately, a consultant will help you for-
mulate 2-3 questions to ask the directors in a telephone inter-
view.
3. Discuss ahead of time what sleepaway camp will be like. Emphasize the positive the many new and fun activities and
making and enjoying new friendships. Acknowledge that your
child may miss home for a part of the time but that you will write
to them and will see them on visiting day (or at the end of a
shorter session program). Never assure them that they will be
immediately rescued if they don't like it. You may be setting
yourself and your child up for failure.
4. Once enrolled, it is natural for your child to experience some
pre-camp jitters. Help your child connect with the sleep away camp by
watching the DVD or looking at the website. If your selected
camp has a new camper party or an opportunity to meet the
director, be sure to take part. Also, let your child take part in
selecting items and packing for camp. Your child might like to
bring a favorite object, pictures of family or pets and stationery
addressed to loved ones.
Our worldwide team of consultants is available to
help you and your child explore a variety of sleepaway camp
programs. Why not give us a call? Our service is
always FREE of charge.
Joanne Paltrowitz
212-288-7892
joanne@campexperts.com
877-553-9737
www.campexperts.com
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