You’ve found a great day camp for your kids, signed them up, and are getting them ready for all the fun ahead. But what should you pack for them every day?
Drawing on my own experiences as a seasoned parent of day campers, I’ve compiled the following list of things to pack.
BAG PACK
Buy a lightweight yet durable and roomy bag pack, like fabric or nylon. It’s useful if it has many compartments including an outside pocket for the water bottle.
BASEBALL CAP AND SUNGLASSES
It can get hot, especially if they’re spending much or all of the day outside. Shades and a hat will keep them cool and comfortable.
FOOD AND SNACKS
Pack one or two sandwiches and some healthy snacks in case they get hungry before and/or after lunch. Put all the food in a thermal bag so that it stays cool and fresh all day.
HAND SANITIZER AND WET WIPES
Pack some hand sanitizer and wet wipes and instruct them on how to use it properly and frequently.
INSECT REPELLENT & ANTI-ITCH CREAM
A day in the park or in woods can be a nightmare if they don’t have insect repellent. If they get bitten, anti-itch cream will help relieve any discomfort.
MONEY FOR TREATS
Pack a couple of dollars for treats. You don’t want your kids to be the only ones without money if the camp makes a pit stop at the ice cream truck.
PLASTIC OR ZIPLOC BAGS
Pack a couple of plastic bags or, even better, Ziploc bags. These are great for any wet items like swimsuits or towels.
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION
If your kids are young, give the camp counselors any prescription medication to carry. If they’re older, they most likely would want to carry the medication themselves.
SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen is important to protect your kids from sunburn. Teach them how to apply it properly, you don’t want them to get it in the eyes, ears, or mouth. Apply it in the morning before they leave for camp and encourage them to reapply during the day.
SWIMMING GEAR
Many day camps include trips to the pool or the beach. Always have gear packed: bathing suit and cap, goggles, a towel, and water shoes.
WATER BOTTLE
Pack a reusable water bottle. Put the bottle in the freezer overnight so that it stays cool and fresh all day.
WINDBREAKER
It can get chilly later in the day, even if it starts out sunny. Pack a lightweight windbreaker or a hoody. Both will protect your kids against any rain.
… AND A LITTLE SURPRISE
Once you’re done packing, put a little surprise item (a favorite snack, an I-love-you note) in a place where you know your kids will look, like in the lunch box. It’ll put a smile on their faces and ensure they have a great day.
Finally, label all of their things including their lunches. Day campers are often asked to take out their lunches and put them in a communal box, which is carried by one of the camp counselors.
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at The City University of New York – Brooklyn College.