2023 Author: Anita Thornton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-22 03:30
The countdown has started. In a few days, your child will be at camp. While he is stamping his feet and already seeing himself there, you are making a mental list of things to remember. To help you, we have prepared a cheat sheet.
What should be put in the backpack of a child attending day camp? The question may seem trivial, but according to an experienced monitor, it seems that many parents omit important things. Balou (by his camp nickname!), camp animator for a 4e year in a row, explains: "It's amazing the number of children who arrive at camp with only their lunch. No change of clothes, not enough water. Parents often have to be reminded a lot. »
These omissions, unintentional, can however compromise the comfort, he alth and safety of the child.
To make sure you don't forget anything, here is a list of the essentials
- A sports type water bottle. In this way, the child will be able to fill it in as needed. Tip: Place frozen grapes in the bottle. They will refresh the water, while flavoring it.
- sunscreenwater repellent. We prefer a broad spectrum sunscreen (against UVA and UVB) and we make sure to brush our child well, in the morning, before departure. An operation that he will have to redo, himself, several times a day. It is important to teach your child how to properly apply the cream, and in sufficient quantity.
- The cap or the hat are a must. Ideally, you should opt for a wide-brimmed hat. They more effectively protect the face, ears and neck of the little ones. If you choose a cap, make sure it is opaque and not tulle.
- To reduce the risk of ankle injuries or damaged toes on the asph alt, it is advisable to opt for a closed shoe (or sandal) that supports the foot well.
- We choose clothes whose fibers are tightly woven, or downright anti-UV, and we put a few spare ones in the child's bag, just in case…
- Swimsuit, towel and swimming cap and goggles for the pool if the child is used to it.
- An insulated lunchboxfull of good fruit, snacks and a cold, balanced meal.
If the child is going to summer camp, in addition to all the above (except the lunch box), here is what will also be necessary.
- Don't forget a warm sweater, socks and pants because in the middle of nature, at dusk, the temperature can drop.
- A raincoat because unfortunately we don't control the temperature.
- Lip balm with SPF to prevent sunburn and to moisturize the lipsafter a day in the sun and wind.
- A toiletry kit that includes: toothbrush, toothpaste and hairbrush. Avoid anything scented since mosquitoes love it…
- Three waterproof bags to separate clean clothes from soiled and wet ones. You can buy reusable (a bit more expensive, but more environmentally friendly) or use large Ziploc type bags.
- Kid size sleeping bag. If the bag is too big, your child may freeze.
- Mosquito repellent and/or a hat with a mosquito net.
- If your child needs to take medication, you must remember to notify the camp management and follow the protocol.
It is not forbidden, unless otherwise specified, to bring electronic games, a watch or a tablet. However, you should know that all these things will have to stay in the dormitory. They will therefore be likely to be stolen and/or broken. In this regard, it may be best to leave valuables at home. However, your child's favorite stuffed animal is welcome at camp, as are books, card games, postage-paid envelopes, stationery and pencils.
Here you and your child are now ready to live a new experience and enjoy the summer!
