We’re kicking off the month of February with all the things we LOVE, one of which is our partner camp and friends at Brant Lake Sports Academy. Nestled in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, BLSA is a unique all girls summer experience in a traditional camp environment where expert sports coaching is combined with a deep tradition of caring for kids and classic camp fun. Girls learn teamwork, self-confidence, perseverance, and self-discipline. They develop a positive self-image and a respect for their inherent talents, strengths, and abilities. And let’s be honest women’s sports are having a moment! So it’s no surprise BLSA has grown their program for summer 2025.
New this year, BLSA has expanded their age range and is introducing Junior Camp with two dedicated sessions (11 and 12 days) just for girls who have completed 2nd through 5th grade. Their junior campers will enjoy a well-rounded, structured program of activities that provides a strong foundation for their future years at BLSA. These new sessions focused on younger campers build on the evergreen Senior Camp session (3 weeks) for girls who have completed 6th through 10th grades.
We got to chat with Rachel Milim, the Director at Brant Lake Sports Academy for a Rapid Fire Round of 20 Questions. Check out what we got to know about the ins + outs of what makes BLSA so special:
What’s the first thing campers do when they arrive at Brant Lake Sports Academy?
After giving their friends big hugs, they run to their bunks to pick out their bed for the next few weeks.
What’s the campers most fave spot to hang out at camp?
Chill vibes down at the lake – IYKYK!
If BLSA had a signature catchphrase, slogan, or hashtag – what would it be?
#itscooltobeatryhard #todayisagooddayforagreatday
What sport brings out the most competition at camp?
Anything green and gray related – The girls are the best competitors in camp!
What is the most underrated activity there that every camper should try?
My favorite would be street hockey.
How would you describe the camp spirit in 3 words?
Camaraderie, teamwork, adventure
What’s the best meal in the dining hall?
I absolutely LOVE Gyro night, but if you’re a camper, you’re going with PASTA, PASTA, PASTA!
What is the must have item for your campers to pack for camp?
Anything Green or Gray!
If BLSA had an official soundtrack – what song would have to be on it?
Party in the USA – Miley Cyrus or Run the World – Beyonce
What’s the best way to spend a rainy day at camp?
Basketball Kickball (BBK!) in the field house, dodgeball in the Arena, bracelets on the bead porch at Arts and Crafts or performing a lip sync competition with your bunk.
Who has the most legendary half court shot at camp?
Richie G of course! IYKYK.
What is the one camp tradition that every camper looks forward to?
GREEN AND GRAY! Aka color war 🙂
What is the biggest lesson campers take home with them?
The most confident athletes are the multiport athletes who aren’t afraid to give everything 110%!
What’s a little-known fact about BLSA you want people to know?
You don’t have to be the greatest athlete; you just have to love to play.
If you had to pick one word that alumni would use to describe camp – what would it be?
Impactful
What is the best part about being a camper there?
You get to meet other incredible girls who share the same passion for sports and life.
If you had a mascot – what would it be?
Chloe and I are already enough. We don’t need a mascot!
How do you know you’ve truly become a BLSA camper?
It’s coming home and finding yourself trying out for a new sport you had never played prior to arriving at camp. It’s finding yourself pushing your limits, taking on new challenges, and encouraging teammates to do the same. It’s counting down the minutes until you can go back to camp and do it all over again.
What’s your favorite time of day at camp?
My favorite time of day is evening activity. I get to see girls out of their sports comfort zone and getting into the spirit of traditional camp activities!
The most popular sport at camp in Summer 2024 was? and what do you think it will be in 2025? (ok 21 questions!)
It’s close between volleyball and flag football. If the weather is perfect this summer, my guess is it will be our water sports. Our campers love waterskiing, wakeboarding and wake surfing. They love trying sports they don’t typically get to do at home.
Teens want to travel where it’s HOT – not just HOT in temperature… HOT in popularity! Whether this is your first summer joining a travel program after camp or you’re a seasoned explorer, it’s always exciting to choose the destination for your next adventure!
Some parents express to us that they’ve traveled a lot as a family already so they’re looking for somewhere new that their teen hasn’t been before. The good news is that with 25 teen travel destinations to choose from, the world is basically your oyster. As the experts in teen travel with 43 years of experience, we are excited to share these HOT destinations for summer 2025:
1. Japan – Pick up any travel magazine or talk to any travel agent and they’ll tell you Japan is the hottest ticket in town. It is the epicenter of where ancient meets modern and tranquil temples meet vibrant city centers. In today’s tech driven world, it’s an incredible place to explore cutting-edge advancements in STEM through a variety of interactive site visits, such as the JAXA Tsukuba Space Center and the Maglev Exhibition Center. From sushi making and sumo-wrestling demonstrations, to whitewater rafting, it’s a MUST GO right now.
2. Greece – Greece is the word! We’d be remiss not to have this incredible country high up on the list given that we’ve already sold out most departure dates. It is chock full of beautiful beaches, cultural landmarks, stunning coastal views, ancient Greek mythology, welcoming local residents, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. There is so much to do from trying an introductory SCUBA dive off the coast of Naxos to cooking an authentic meal and exploring off the beaten path stops like Lake Plastrias in Meteora. Some might say it’s the PERFECT summer destination!
3. Hawaii – There are so many ways for teens to experience this dream destination… from outrigger canoeing, surfing, and river tubing to volunteering and helping protect sea turtles and learning about environmental sustainability – teens love exploring the beautiful island landscapes of Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island! Hawaiian culture is deep rooted in Aloha, meaning love and peace, and it shows in the connections our groups leave this wondrous state with, their new Ohana.
4. Costa Rica – If you haven’t gotten a taste of the Pura Vida lifestyle yet, you’re missing out! There are many good reasons this Central American country is considered a hot destination. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities, shadowing medical professionals, protecting sea turtles (yes, more sea turtles!), running day camps and providing infrastructure support – teens can help make a difference and earn up to 70 community service hours. Also, the locals are warm and welcoming and its beautiful and varied landscapes offer so much variety! Surfing, ziplining, catamaran snorkel cruises, dance lessons – each itinerary offers so much adventure and FUN! Not to mention, for families in North America, the proximity is ideal.
5. Spain – Viva España! There are ample landscapes, thrilling activities and cultural aspects for teens to explore! Luckily, high schoolers don’t have to wait until college to study abroad in Barcelona. It is the ideal city for academic enrichment and college preparation, with its rare charm offering the perfect combination of thriving metropolis and Mediterranean beach town; New York meets Miami if you will. Spain is also the ideal destination for an immersive language experience! Instead of getting to know one city very well, you can gallivant around the country with like-minded teens interacting with locals and practicing your Spanish daily. No hablas Español? No problemo! You’ll still soak up the culture simply by traveling on an adventure program.
The truth is you can’t go wrong! For teens traveling with like-minded peers, with the support of warm and caring leaders – the real impact is the new friendships formed. Sure, it helps to be somewhere new and exciting! Each destination is special in its own way!
About the contributor:
Lindsay runs the WCC Mamaroneck, NY office. She helps families choose the program that is the best fit for them, interviews and hires talented summer leaders, supports programs on the road, manages their summer communication center, and is part of their safety + risk management team. Like so many others at Westcoast Connection, she shares a strong passion for both camp and travel.
By: Nikki Zenkel Grossman
For Camp Directors, the arrival of the New Year signals one thing: camp is just around the corner! While preparing for camp can feel overwhelming — shopping, packing, filling out forms, and getting both your child (and yourself) ready for time away from home—it doesn’t have to be. By starting early and seeking guidance from your Camp Director(s) and your fave camp advisors at Summer 365, the entire process can be made smooth and manageable.
Read the Parent Handbook
My first piece of advice to parents—new or returning—is to read the Parent Handbook. While it may be lengthy, it’s worth your time, especially to learn about updates or changes from the prior year. Camp Directors work hard to make the handbook clear and informative. It will answer most of your questions, help you stay on top of your preparations AND save you time and stress later on.
Review the Packing List
I’ve heard some parents say, “Packing for camp is like my Super Bowl”—they absolutely love it! Others dread filling 80-pound duffels weeks before camp begins. Regardless of whether you love or loathe the packing process, it’s best to stick to the list! Like the Parent Handbook, the Packing List is updated and streamlined every year. Camps curate their packing lists to include only necessary items. They do so to control costs and preserve precious cabin space by limiting extra “stuff” that can quickly become a burden. The process can be simple, especially at “uniform camps”. New campers order a “fit kit” from their camps clothing provider to ensure proper sizing. Once sizing is confirmed, the order is easily fulfilled online. Returning campers should check the fit of the past summer’s clothing and order what is needed.
One important packing rule: everything must be labeled—socks, underwear, cleats, shin guards, you name it, you label it! Many clothing providers offer sewn-in iron-on labeling. Label stickers also work for many items as do indelible markers.
Be sure to involve your child in the packing process. Let your child pick out the stationery to be used to write letters, the squishmallows or loveys they want to bring, and other personal items. This gets them excited for camp and gives them a sense of ownership and comfort when they arrive and settle in with the items they’ve chosen.
Complete Camp Forms On Time
Most camps send out forms after the New Year (check your inbox!). Medical, transportation, baggage, bunk request, and activity preference forms all must be completed. These enable us to care for and support every camper. Tackle the forms early! Schedule the physical, confirm travel plans and set aside a quiet morning to power through them. They are crucial for the Camp Directors, Medical, and Operations teams, and the sooner we receive them, the sooner we can address questions or concerns.
Speak with the Camp Director
Camp Directors spend much of the off-season visiting current and prospective campers, building familiarity and comfort before camp begins. These face-to-face interactions help your child connect with their “summer parents.” It also eases parental anxiety knowing that there’s a trusted person your child can turn to. If an in-person meeting isn’t possible, consider a Zoom call to ease pre-camp jitters. All of this helps to foster a sense of connection and trust before camp begins.
Connect with Other Campers
Soon after the New Year is a great time to start building enthusiasm for camp friendships. Many camps offer pen pal or “big sister/big brother” programs, which pair new and veteran campers. Each camp does things a little bit differently, but in most cases the veteran campers write letters, Facetime, and even organize in-person meetups. Many camps also host winter and spring meetups. These can range from casual gatherings at an ice cream shop to fun outings like bowling. These are wonderful opportunities for your child to meet and start forming friendships with other campers. Encourage your child to attend – these events will spark excitement and ensure there will be friendly faces on the first day of camp.
Prepare Your Child for Camp
The final step has arrived! You’ve read the handbook, reviewed the packing list, and started organizing your duffels. You’ve met other campers, staff, and parents. Now it’s time to focus on preparing your child for camp. This is the perfect opportunity to set achievable goals together that will boost their confidence.
For younger campers, especially those leaving home for the first time, let them practice simple tasks they’ll be responsible for at camp. Bedtime routines are a good place to start. Encourage your child to brush teeth and wash hair without your help (if they don’t do so already!). Teach them to make the bed and then let them do it by themself. With your support and encouragement, these small successes will build confidence.
As summer approaches, new emotions may surface, and your child may express nervousness or worry about camp. These feelings are completely normal. The best way to respond is to have open conversations in which you allow your child to express themselves and you offer support without trying to solve the problems for them. This will help your child build the independence they will rely on at camp.
We recommend all new camp families read Homesick and Happy by Michael Thompson. The book’s central message is that it’s okay for your child to feel homesick while still having fun – a powerful reminder that time away from parents can be crucial for personal growth. We send all new camp families a copy of this in early Spring and truly feel it’s a must read – and can be found easily on Amazon if you want to check it out.
In summary, it’s the New Year, here’s what you can do over the next few months to prepare for the BEST SUMMER EVER:
Prepare for camp together: Let your child help pack and choose what to bring to camp.
Start those camp forms early!
Help connect your child to the people that will be at camp with them including Head Staff so they feel at ease knowing they have someone to turn to.
Encourage your child to share their feelings, whether anxiety or excitement. Help them express themself and build independence.
There are less than 6 months until camp starts – get ready, because the fun has just begun!
About the contributor:
Nikki is one of the Directors of Point O’ Pines Camp, an all girls sleepaway camp in the spectacular Adirondack Mountains. At POP, Nikki oversees all aspects of Residential Life – making sure all campers and staff are happy, healthy and having fun! Nikki serves on the SCOPE Associate Board and is devoted to giving all children, regardless of their socio-economic background, access to summer camp. Nikki is passionate about developing youth and believes summer camp has a profound impact on children – allowing them to gain confidence, independence and resilience.
By: Jolly Corley
Being a parent has its ups and downs—you already know that! You’ve decided on a camp, picked the perfect one, and completed enrollment. Congratulations! Pat yourself on the back for all your hard work. But wait…what’s this? Suddenly, your child has a million “what if” questions every night at bedtime. They’re unsure about camp, and you’re wondering if this is normal. The short answer: yes, it’s completely normal! Helping your child navigate their nerves might feel like the hardest part of preparing for camp, but with a little guidance, you can help them feel ready.
It’s a common misconception that a child’s anxiety or questions about camp mean it isn’t the right fit. In reality, these “what if” questions allow kids to process their feelings and mentally prepare for something new. This is a natural and important part of development. Life is full of uncertainties, and camp is an age-appropriate way to help children practice facing unknowns—whether it’s adjusting to college, starting a new job, or moving to a new place later in life. The very act of asking questions shows they’re preparing themselves to tackle a challenge, which is a wonderful skill to build. Together, with support from your camp and Summer 365, you can help them through this transition.
Here are 7 ways to help manage your camper’s nerves:
Normalize Their Feelings-
Remind yourself—and your camper—that nerves and anxiety are normal. Think about your own doubts before a big move or starting a new job. Those feelings don’t mean you made the wrong decision; they’re part of the process of stepping outside your comfort zone. Reassure your child that it’s okay to feel nervous or scared about camp—it’s just their brain’s way of getting ready.
Avoid labeling these feelings as “bad.” For instance, instead of saying, “Don’t think about all the scary things, just focus on the fun,” try saying, “It’s okay to feel nervous about something new. It means you care about being able to do hard things!” Reframing their thoughts helps build confidence, which is one of the key benefits of the camp experience.
Help them understand that they can feel more than one feeling at once. They can be super nervous and super excited about camp. The duality of emotions is normal and feels a little funny, too. It is good to talk about what makes us nervous and what we are excited about.
I let our campers know that even as the camp director, I get nervous, and then I share what happens when I get nervous—the tools I use to help. For me, it is talking with a friend or going for a walk. Then, I will give examples of what other campers do. We have a camper who goes to see and pet the horses when she is worried. Then I ask what they do to feel better. If they aren’t sure, I give examples: Do you have a favorite stuffed animal you like snuggling? Do you have a game or activity that is fun? Someone they like to talk to? Then, I explain that those are tools we use to help us with our nerves/anxiety. At camp, we will learn even more about those things that can help us when we are worried.
Connect with the Camp Director-
Reach out to the camp director and schedule a meeting (in person or via Zoom). Here’s how they can help:
Introduce your family to experienced camp families. Connecting with families who’ve already been through the first-time jitters can be reassuring.
Answer your camper’s questions. Directors often know the best way to address specific concerns or can connect you with a staff member or camp alumni to provide answers.
Familiarize your camper with the camp team. Ask if the camp already has staff assigned for next summer (like the camp nurse or specific counselors). Then use this information in #6.
Explore Camp Materials Together-
Review the camp’s videos, social media posts, and FAQ section with your child. Familiarity can ease anxiety, so take time to look at photos of cabins, dining halls, and activity areas. Highlight fun traditions or activities that align with their interests to spark excitement. This can also spark more questions, but that is okay. Questions are a great way for your camper to process going to camp.
Share Personal Stories-
Tell your child about a time you were nervous about trying something new and how you worked through it. Sharing your own experiences helps normalize their feelings and shows them that even adults face challenges—and overcome them.
Empower Them with a Plan-
Help your camper see that they are capable of finding answers to their questions. For example:
Keep a question journal. Encourage them to jot down any questions that pop up at bedtime, so they don’t feel like they need answers immediately.
Help them contact the camp. Assist them in writing an email or recording a video with their questions for the camp director. Hearing a direct response from camp staff can be comforting.
Highlight Their Support Network at Camp-
Let your child know that camp has a team of caring people ready to help them. If you know specific staff names, use the to address your camper’s specific concerns. If they worry about getting hurt or sick- “Dr. Melissa will be there if you get sick,” If they are worried about missing you- “Remember Jolly, the camp director? She said you can talk to her anytime.” If they are worried about not knowing what to do, “Your unit leader Kathie will be there to help you when you aren’t sure where to go or what to do”. If you don’t know names, mention roles like counselors, activity leaders, and nurses—they’re all part of the support system.
Celebrate Their Bravery-
Remind your camper how proud you are of them for taking on this challenge. Let them know it’s okay to feel nervous and brave at the same time. Encourage them to keep asking questions and remind them they’re already preparing for camp by thinking about their concerns and looking for answers. That’s a big step in building resilience and independence!
Camp is an incredible opportunity for your child to grow, make friends, and build confidence. By guiding them through their pre-camp nerves, you’re setting them up for success—not just for camp, but for all the exciting adventures life has in store. You’ve got this, and so do they!
About the contributor:
Jolly is the Co-Director of Camp Robindel, an all girls sleepaway camp in New Hampshire. She is passionate about creating a culture of personal and professional growth, rooted in developing the emotional intelligence skills of campers and staff.
You’ve made it! A week or ten days has passed since your child left for camp and all is going great. Now, you find yourself gearing up for your first phone call with your child and you couldn’t be more excited. Here are 10 tips to nail your camper’s first phone call home from sleepaway camp!
Approach the call with a positive tone e.g… “hey X, it’s so great to hear your voice, how is camp?”
Be prepared for 1 word answers. Please remember that young children are not that skilled in phone conversations and old fashioned “talking.” It’s hard enough for them at the best of times, never mind at overnight camp! Be patient and positive – that is the key.
Create a list of questions you could ask e.g… who sleeps next to you, what are your counselors names, do you have a favorite counselor, what activities have you done, have you been waterskiing, do you have a favorite activity at sleepaway camp? Try to make these questions ‘open’ questions as opposed to ‘yes/no’ questions. This approach will help facilitate conversation.
Try to expand on the information your camper gives you. So, if they say that yes they have been waterskiing then ask them to tell you all about it.
Tell them how proud you are of them and that you have seen pictures of them on the website.
Ask your camper if they have been receiving your letters and thank them for their letters.
Remember that your child has not heard your voice in well over a week. They are likely to be emotional. Please do not meet this emotion with panic or serious concern! Remember that phone calls are not always an accurate picture of how your child is doing at camp. Often the happiest of campers get a little emotional when they hear their parents’ voices for the first time in a while. Try to soothe your child by being calm and collected. Tell your child “sweetheart it is ok to be upset, I’m here for you, talk to me, is everything ok”. They are likely to respond with “I miss you” or “I feel homesick”. Normalize this for your child – tell them that it is ok to feel this way and that you miss them too. Remind them that although they are missing you they can still have fun. Really try to transition your child onto a different focus by referring to your questions (see point 3). PS Almost always, they will hang up the phone and immediately get back into the swing of camp.
If your child continues to be sad or upset, ask them if there is anything that they need you to tell their camp directors or division/group leaders. Remind them that we are all here to support them. If your child responds that there is nothing to tell us just then reassure them that feeling homesick is very normal and that you have every confidence that they will continue to have fun. If your child responds with a yes, ask them to communicate that with you so that you can be in touch with camp. You could also encourage them to speak directly to their division leader about any concerns that they have.
At the end of the call there are counselors/head staff/division leaders that will be waiting right outside to hug your child! They are masters at transitioning kids back into the swing of camp-even for those children who have emotional calls.
10. Don’t feel alone after the call! You should feel totally comfortable having a check in or “call-after-the-call” with someone at camp if your child mentioned anything you want more information about. Most camps will be more than happy to connect with you and it’s a good way for you to feel even more in the loop.
By: Samantha Shinewald
In the lead up to camp, we all spend so much time making lists… things we have, things we need, things the kids want (but don’t actually need). From underwear and toothbrushes to a penguin onesie for a special event, somehow it’s all on the list! The golden rule of packing that duffel is “leave nothing to chance.” So, camp says 3 bathing suits, better make it 5! All along, we are trying to convince ourselves that our kid will be OK, and if it means another run to Target the night before the bus leaves – so be it! Then, once the bus pulls away, and the bags (and kids!) are gone, how do we really know how they’re doing?
The rational part of our brain can reason through it…
My kid was super excited
My kid is very independent/capable and we prepared them for this!
I trust the camp I’ve chosen and feel confident that the camps leadership team will take care of my child
And for many of us…
I will be receiving pictures of my kid getting off the bus, being hugged by old friends and counselors — by 9pm tonight!
But, what if your camp doesn’t post pictures?? It may be hard to believe, but even now, in 2023, in this crazy world of instant-gratification, where we can be notified in real time that our sushi order has been picked up by Uber-eats and watch as it takes 15 wrong turns to get to our house, that some camps choose not to post any pictures all summer – and taking it a step further, that many parents actually choose these camps. That’s right, the same people that track their sushi order, are intentionally not “tracking” their kids’ experience over the 7 weeks that they are at camp. Fun fact: I am one of these people!
So how do I know that my kid is ok?? Controversial opinion: I don’t know… but, maybe I wouldn’t know even if I were receiving pictures!
As many of us know, a day at camp is equivalent to a month in the real world. The best friend that you walked to breakfast with, may side with another kid about whether the original, or the remake of Parent Trap is the better version. In a mere moment of loneliness, three new kids might befriend you and by shower hour you’ll be reciting lines from Mean Girls with an entirely different crew. Over the course of the day, they will have ups and downs. But, which part of this day will be captured for parental consumption? Being in touch with so many parents, I hear things like, “I think my kid is having a tough day”, “Why is my kid wearing someone else’s sneakers?” and “I can’t believe my kid is at arts & crafts again!!!” We dissect the pictures and examine the moment, but do any of these pictures truly convey how a kid is really doing at camp??
As a non-photo receiving parent, I have 2 methods of determining how my kid is doing:
My good old reliable, USPS mail carrier, who thoughtfully places my camper’s letters on rainbow stationery atop my pile of catalogs, bringing me news every couple of days
Camp directors/head counselors that I trust will reach out to me if a problem arises, or that I feel comfortable reaching out to when I need a little reassurance
And, while a letter from my child or the feedback of a camp director are not happening in real time, at least neither are my interpretation of what’s going on!
When it comes down to it, the thing that I remind myself of throughout the summer is that my child’s camp experience actually isn’t meant for my eyes, or my interpretation. Camp is her place… and if she wants to borrow her friend’s bathing suit (ew!), then really, does she need to hear from me (200 miles away), that I don’t think she should? I am sending her to camp to make many of exactly those types of inconsequential decisions. Camp is designed to allow kids the opportunity to independently decide how they want to present themselves, and spend their free time, in a totally controlled and highly supervised environment. And by sending her to camp (and especially one that does not have pictures), I am telling her that I trust her to make these decisions on her own, and to navigate her world thoughtfully, and with the problem solving tools that she has spent the prior 10 months harvesting.
By: Samantha Shinewald
As a camper in the ‘90’s, visiting day was always a highlight of the summer! I remember my parents showing up in their knee length khaki shorts and k-way raincoats, with grocery bags filled with all my favorite foods; my beloved Montreal bagels (IYKYK), new stickers and stationery, maybe a gift for my bunkmates, some new comic books, and more. I would introduce them to my friends and counselors, show them my bed, and then walk them around camp. It was a great day.
When 2020 began, one of my top goals was to find the perfect camp for my daughter, so that she could board the bus in the summer of 2021 ready to begin her camping career. But as the summer of 2020 rolled around, and camps were not offering tours, we were forced to make the choice, despite never having stepped foot on the grounds. But, after many director calls, and hours spent poring over websites, we made our choice, and decided that seeing the camp through our daughters’ eyes at visiting day 2021 would be better than any director tour…. I think we all know how that went!
Enter Summer 2022… we were hopeful! We made hotel reservations, talked about which favorite foods “needed” to be brought up, which activity she is most excited to show us… but we flew too close to the sun, and it was canceled.
So, now what?
When I sat my daughter down to tell her that visiting day had been canceled (Don’t worry. I wiped away my tears first!), she took a moment to think and then said “I don’t even really know what visiting day is, so… can you take me to my dance class now?”
As many of us have likely realized, visiting day is not about the kids… it’s about us! The expression “Out of sight. Out of mind,” must have been created in reference to kids at overnight camp. Mom and Dad who? Don’t get me wrong, of course they “miss” us – no one rubs their back like we do, or brushes and braids their hair as well… but they are so immersed in their camp world and routine that they barely know what day it is (unless it’s lazy Sunday… because, donuts). It’s always easier to leave than it is to be left. At home we walk by their bedroom, or reach for their favorite food at the grocery store, but for them, it’s a totally new world – and one that we have never been a part of, and maybe don’t really belong in?
So how did my own “perfect” 90’s visiting day end when I was a camper? There was usually at least 1 girl crying, someone else had a tummy ache from too much candy, another girl swore that she was being picked up to go home the very next day… the fallout was real. And for all of you who have experienced a visiting day in this century, can you admit that it hasn’t really changed? Visiting day is tough…but is a world without visiting day tougher? Maybe? I know that each camp has its own “remedy” for the lack of visiting day… some are doing packages, some do facetime, some do phone calls etc. For me, having never experienced visiting day as a parent, and with a child who has never experienced visiting day, our approach is to just let the summer roll on. I won’t write to her and say “Wow, I can’t believe it’s supposed to be visiting day this weekend and I’m not there” – I’ll just treat it like any other normal day. But, just like I would if I were there, I will likely reach out to the camp for a mid-summer check in (aka sanity check!). I will also do my best to (try to) relax, and trust that she is having the time of her life, and that really, she is exactly where she should be.
By: Wendy Siegel
Some helpful hints for parents planning to visit camps this summer:
1. Don’t go by what “everyone” says about Camp X – make your own decisions and go with your heart.
Everyone else isn’t you. So if you’re listening to the chatter or rumor mill or plug your ears and put on blinders. Find the camp that feels right for YOU. People love to talk even when they don’t actually KNOW that what they’re saying is true. They’ve “heard” that the camp you’re looking for is for spoiled rotten kids or they’ve “heard” that there are too many counselors from abroad or they’ve “heard” that the camp directors don’t return calls or that there are too many kids from one town…Do the research yourself. This is for YOUR child and your family and not for anyone else.
2. Prepare your child for what’s in store…ask the camp director how the tour will go.
Will you be with your child on the tour? Will your child go with a counselor and separate from you? Will there be activities? Many kids need a preview to help calm their nerves.
3. And speaking of nerves…it’s totally normal for your child to be nervous or anxious about going on a tour or participating in a camp rookie day.
This is a really big deal – for some kids because they’re really scared about the idea of sleepaway camp, for some because it’s the unknown. Don’t roll your eyes or tell your child there’s nothing to be nervous about…lean in and talk it through. Let your child know that you understand and it’s okay to be nervous. Maybe even tell your child that you’re nervous, too. Talk through what s/he is nervous about…and if your child can’t vocalize exactly what it is that’s causing nerves, that’s okay too.
4. Allergies
If you have a child with food allergies or any other allergies, inform the camp when you arrive or ahead of time. Lots of camps give snacks/treats while on tour so it’s helpful for them to plan for your visit.
5. Operation same page
Make sure you and your spouse are on the same page and that you’ve prepared your partner for what to expect from your tour or tours. If you’ve researched all of the camps you’re seeing and you’ve planned all of the tours, make sure s/he knows what is ahead. And…do your best to keep your strong opposing opinions from popping up along the tour. Save your arguments and disagreements for the car or for when you get home. Keep the peace in front of the tour giver!
6. Avoid this awkward moment!
And while we’re on the topic of awkward tour mishaps…if you say to your child prior to a tour, “You’re not actually going to GO to this camp – you’re going to another camp. But we’re going to tour this camp because our neighbor/cousin/friend goes here”…I assure you your child is going to share that information with his or her tour giver. And THAT is SUPER awkward. Set the right tone and have your child go into everything with an open mind and heart!
7. Channel your inner camper…and unplug!
We KNOW that we all live in a connected world and texts and emails are super important to read on a timely basis. Do your best to “disconnect” for the hour or hours of your camp visits. Do it for you – so you can really get a sense of the camp you’re visiting and see and feel and understand what the camp is all about. And do it for the tourgiver that is taking the time to spend with you. Tour givers care about the relationship they build with you, and when you’re on the phone it’s hard to stay on track and connect. And, it’s…borderline…rude.
8. Take it all in!
When you are preparing to leave the camp you’ve been visiting, make sure you have AND your child has taken it all in. If your child doesn’t remember seeing the gymnastics center or the ceramics station or something that is important to you, ask to go back. This is your chance to see everything before you make the all-important camp decision.
9. Take your future camper’s lead
When you get back into the car as you leave each camp, you’re either going to be super energetic and excited…or exhausted from the heat or the sun or the long day. So is your child. Follow your child’s lead…if s/he wants to talk and answer questions, ask away. But if s/he is quiet and not super chatty, give your child time. Some kids need to absorb what they’ve seen and heard and experienced before they’re ready to talk and share with you their thoughts.
10. Post tour follow up
After it’s all over…and after you get home…and after you and your family make your decision…PLEASE…respond to follow-up emails or calls from camp directors. Ask your questions…let them know you’re still deliberating and need more time…deferring the decision or waiting another year…or a quick email telling the camps you visited and did NOT choose that you’ve made a different decision and chosen another camp. You cannot imagine how appreciated this gesture is after the energy, effort and time camp directors put into your visit – whatever the outcome.
ENJOY your tours…have FUN! Relive your own camp memories while seeking out the perfect summer home where your child will build his or her own!