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Summer camp is a fun-filled ritual for millions of American children. Going to camp helps kids build independence and self-esteem, make friends, learn about teamwork, and try a variety of sports, crafts, and outdoor activities. The best way to ensure summer camp success is to choose the right kind of camp for your child.

First, decide whether your child should go to sleep-away camp or day camp. Age is one factor to consider, but so are your child's temperament, personality, and life experiences. There's no "right" age for sleep-away camp, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Some kids are ready at age 5 or 6; for others, waiting until age 13 or 14 is more appropriate....

Summer camp is a fun-filled ritual for millions of American children. Going to camp helps kids build independence and self-esteem, make friends, learn about teamwork, and try a variety of sports, crafts, and outdoor activities. The best way to ensure summer camp success is to choose the right kind of camp for your child.

First, decide whether your child should go to sleep-away camp or day camp. Age is one factor to consider, but so are your child's temperament, personality, and life experiences. There's no "right" age for sleep-away camp, according to the American Psychiatric Association. Some kids are ready at age 5 or 6; for others, waiting until age 13 or 14 is more appropriate.

Next, think about whether your child would do better at a camp with a specific focus -- soccer, computers, or horseback riding, for example -- or a camp with a wide variety of activities. Involve your child in the choice, because children who are excited about going to camp are more likely to enjoy it.

Finally, if your child goes to sleep-away camp, understand that some initial homesickness is normal, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, once your child makes friends and begins to get swept up in camp activities, homesickness should lessen.

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NaomiTheMaineMom
August 01, 2007

Camping with Dad

Dad, Danny, David, Uncle Edmond, Uncle Ray and Uncle Charlie used to take fishing trips to Wood Lake in the Boundary Waters area. We would borrow Uncle Sully?s gear, boats, and canoe. We had to potage the gear into Wood Lake. Dave was...  read more

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Mommymorris1967
July 09, 2007

Parentpedia > School Age > Milestones > Camp

I have three children who go to camp every summer. The first year was the hardest.... on MOM but after they loved it, so did I. I only send my kids to a camp where I know the adults and the reputation of the camp. My son went on his...  read more

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