Preparing your child for his first summer camp

1. Introduce the Camp Concept to Your Child

Explain to your child what a summer camp is, highlighting the many activities offered and the opportunity to make new friends. Emphasize that at Kids-Trip.ch, the camps are day camps: children are picked up in the morning and return home each evening. This can be reassuring for those hesitant about sleeping away from home.

2. Involve Your Child in the Preparations

Get your child involved in the preparations to help them feel engaged and excited. Let them choose their backpack, clothes, and accessories for the camp. This involvement will give them a sense of responsibility and help them better anticipate the upcoming experience.

3. Encourage Independence

Take this opportunity to encourage your child to develop their independence. Teach them to:

• Dress themselves and choose clothes based on the planned activities.
• Manage their belongings by packing their bag and taking care of their personal items.
• Follow the camp’s rules and instructions for good integration with other children.

These skills will be useful not only during the camp but also in their daily life.

4. Address Concerns Together

Your child may have fears or doubts about the camp. Take the time to discuss with them:

• Listen to their worries and reassure them by explaining the daily schedule.
• Tell them about the Kids-Trip.ch counselors, who are experienced and attentive to each child’s well-being.
• Encourage them to see this experience as an enriching adventure.

5. Highlight the Positive Aspects

Talk about the most exciting parts of the camp:

• New activities and discoveries.
• Outdoor games and moments of camaraderie.
• New friendships to build.

By focusing on these positive elements, your child will approach the camp with more enthusiasm.

6. Prepare a Comfort Item

If your child needs a reassuring touchstone, allow them to bring a comfort item, such as:

• A favorite stuffed animal.
• A small symbolic object (bracelet, lucky charm).
• A family photo discreetly tucked into their bag.

Having something familiar with them can help them feel secure throughout the day.

7. Establish an Adapted Routine

Before the camp begins, set up a routine similar to the camp schedule:

• Set regular times for waking up, meals, and bedtime.
• Encourage outdoor activities to get your child used to a dynamic environment.
• Teach them to manage their schedule and small responsibilities.

This preparation beforehand will ease their transition and integration into the camp.

8. Communicate with the Kids-Trip.ch Team

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us:

• We’ll provide clear and reassuring answers.
• We can offer advice tailored to your child’s personality.
• We’re available to help you prepare for this adventure as best as possible.

9. Prepare for the Separation

It’s normal for the separation to be challenging, both for you and your child. To make it go smoothly:

• Show confidence and positivity at drop-off.
• Avoid lingering goodbyes to prevent anxiety.
• Reassure your child by reminding them you’ll be there at the end of the day.

10. Celebrate the Experience Upon Return

Each evening, take the time to talk with your child:

• Ask them what they enjoyed and discovered.
• Encourage them to share their favorite moments.
• Praise their progress in independence and integration.

Showing interest in their stories will boost their confidence and eagerness to return to camp the next day.

By following these tips, you’ll help your child have an enriching and memorable experience with Kids-Trip.ch. Our dedicated team is committed to providing high-quality summer camps that combine safety, fun, and learning, for the joy of the children and the peace of mind of parents.