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10 Handy Dandy Tips for Camp Season!

 

For many kids around the world Summer Camp is just around the corner. Spending long, sunny days on the lake, making new friends and taking part in new activities are just some of the memories they will be making. It’s a combination of fabulous fun and homesickness–and for parents, packing your child up for the first trip away from home can be bittersweet. Send yours off with everything he or she needs to ease the transition.  Here are some of our most handy-dandy tips:

1. Contact the camp ahead of time and ask for a list of recommended gear and clothing. The camp staffers know the terrain and weather patterns, so they’ll have plenty of suggestions. Find out if your child needs clothing of a certain color for field trips, a special event or team sports.
2. Begin packing several weeks in advance to avoid last-minute shopping trips or scrambling for a must-have favorite t-shirt. Your child should help you pack so she knows what she’s bringing. 
3. Purchase or borrow a large duffel bag, a traditional trunk or a trunk on wheels. 
4. Ensure your child’s gear is labelled.  Lovable Labels offers an extensive array of labels that are dishwasher and laundry safe.  Check out the Ultimate Camp Pack to get all the labels you need – all in one handy-dandy pack.    
5. Pack a small toiletries kit or basket so your child can carry and keep track of essentials such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, deodorant, comb and brush. Flip-flops for the shower are also a must. 
6. Pack sufficient clothing. Depending on where the camp is located, even in August the nights can get cold. Include a fleece jacket, a windbreaker, a warm hat and gloves. Pack rain gear in case of wet weather, and bathing suits and towels for swimming. 
7. Pack additional necessities. This could be games, a favourite toy or stuffed animal and books. Also, choose between cameras – film, disposable or digital. Pre-stamped, pre-addressed postcards are a great way to encourage kids to write home. 
8. If your child suffers from sever allergies or has medical conditions ensure the proper precautions are taken ahead of time with filling out the necessary paperwork, ensuring that he/she has access to the appropriate medication and that camp staff is aware of your childs condition(s).  Lovable Labels also carries safety items such as Medical / Vital ID Wristbands and Allergy Labels that are great for children with medical conditions such as allergies, asthma, epilepsy and diabetes. 
9. Many life-long friendships can be formed at camp.  Ensure your child has “Connect with Me” Cards to share with his/her new friends.  These cards can be printed with a phone number, home address or an email address to keep in touch.  A thoughtful touch that kids will appreciate at the end of a fabulous camp experience.
10. If the night before the first day of camp your little camper has a case of nervous butterflies take the time to explain that it is ok to be a little nervous and that other campers are experiencing the same feelings. Encourage your camper to participate in all the camp activities to keep his mind off any negative feelings. Physical activity is a great way to stay positive and combat homesickness. Packing a favourite toy or special PJ’s will help comfort him at bedtime.

Although we suggest that you contact your child’s camp for specific packing items we have put together a handy-dandy packing list to ensure you get a heard start and do not miss any of the essentials!  PACKING LIST  

Happy Camping!!

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