The best age to send your child to summer camp is when they are old enough to make independent decisions and enjoy many activities they would never experience at home. This is the age when kids begin making friends and developing self-confidence. They will also gain a new appreciation for the beauty of nature. They may experience homesickness at first, but they will quickly overcome this feeling with the encouragement of their counselors and fellow campers.
The ideal age to send your child to sleepaway summer camp depends on your child’s maturity level and their previous experience away from home. Most children are ready for overnight summer camps at age six, although younger kids may need some encouragement. Research the camp carefully before choosing it. You may find that the older the camp, the better. Also, consider the staff at the camp you’re considering. There are some older camps that offer better facilities and services.
Another sign of readiness to attend summer camp is a kids’s independence. This goes beyond just personal hygiene, but also includes the ability to take showers without constant supervision. While young children may need some reassurance that they will be able to take showers and brush their teeth by themselves, they will usually be mature enough by the time they ask. It’s also important to know that a child who is ready for camp is likely to ask to attend.
Parents can start exposing their children to the idea of summer camp before they send them there. Showing them pictures and videos of other kids who went to camp may also help build their interest. If a child has a friend who went to camp, send them along, or at least take them to events where these kids gather. By doing this, parents can expose their child to the idea of summer camping and make them more interested.
Children in their preteen years are often happy to attend a summer camp, as long as they can make their own decisions. Often, they can make friends with their peers and not worry about being a “social butterfly.” A child can enjoy many activities at summer camp and not worry about feeling left out or struggling socially. So, the age is right. It’s best to let your child experience summer camp and enjoy the time with their peers.
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