Tips for Sending Your Child to Overnight Camp For the First Time

We know the never-ending benefits of sending your child to overnight camp--the increased self confidence, building long lasting friendships and developing independence. But for a child who is off to camp for the first time this summer, it can seem overwhelming, and dare we say it, even scary! But fear not! We’re here to ease your child’s fears with these tips to help them realize that camp is going to be one of the best experiences of their lives.

It’s All In The Approach: When speaking to your child, don’t talk about camp as being “4 weeks away from home,” but rather “a summer full of adventures and new friendships!”

Visit The Camp: Scheduling a tour ahead of time to explore the facilities and meet the camp staff is a great way to familiarize your child with their new summer home. This will help them feel more comfortable as they’ll be able to visualize themselves there.

Talk About It: During the months leading up to camp, it’s helpful to talk about what they can expect this summer.  Mentioning things like sleepovers in the cabin and meeting new people  are both positive topics that will get your child excited about their new adventure.

Surf The Web: Exploring the camp’s website is a great way to have a virtual experience, especially if there are videos or interactive maps of the grounds. Seeing pictures of other campers having fun, or an activity calendar for the summer ahead is helpful in building enthusiasm.

Acknowledge Their Concerns: Ask your child positive questions, such as, “what activity are you most excited about?” or “what do you think your counselors will be like?” This will hopefully spark a conversation between you and your child, bringing up any concerns they may have. Let them know you are listening, which should redirect their concerns and minimize their apprehension.

We want your child to know that camp is fun! With a camper to staff ratio of  3 to 1, Camp Tioga is composed of carefully selected experienced and caring individuals who make sure that each child feels welcome and comfortable. To learn more about Camp Tioga, visit us on Facebook or Twitter.

Get-Ready-For-Camp Checklist

The countdown to camp is on! We bet your child is ready for some fun in the sun and s’mores by the fire.  But not so fast! Being away for a few weeks takes a lot of planning and prepping so before you load up the car, make sure they have everything they need with this summer camp checklist!

• Camper Forms: Prior to your child’s arrival at camp, you’ll need to create a camper profile and complete their medical forms. Schedule those doctor appointments now to ensure you’re all set as camp gets closer.
• Medications: If your child does require medication or has any medical concerns, it’s important to coordinate these logistics with the camp. Make sure you get the contact information of the nurse or medic on staff in the event of an emergency. It’s always better to be prepared!
• Schedule a Camp Trunk Pick-up: Most camps use baggage carriers, so remember to schedule your pick up ahead of time.
• Go Shopping: If your child is a return camper, see what items they have from last year and then reassess their shopping needs. Contact your camp for a suggested list of clothing to pack, and inquire about camp discounts from local retailers.
• Transportation Arrangements: Some camps offer transportation services for the kids. Whether it be a charter bus, or chaperoned flight, check with your camp on any services offered and schedule accommodations accordingly.
• Review the Basics: Since your child will be away from home for the summer, make sure they know how to take care of themselves and exhibit proper hygiene.

• Plan Your Visit: Now it’s time for you to plan your summer fun! Make arrangements for visiting day ahead of time to avoid overbooking at nearby hotels.

After completing that checklist, now it’s time to get excited! Your child is only a few weeks away from having a life-altering, confidence-building, fun summer at  Camp Tioga. For more questions visit us here, or contact us at (516)938-0894.

Health Benefits of Attending Sleepaway Camp

There’s no doubt that attending sleepaway camp is tons of fun, but is it actually good for your child too? You bet! In a world with ever rising levels of stress and illness, camp has been proven to optimize the physical and psychological development of those who attend it. If that’s not enough to sign your kids up immediately, here are some reasons why camp keeps them healthy.

Teaches Resiliency: The ultimate camp experience offers a nurturing and supportive environment away from home. Camp introduces kids to new skills and teaches them the importance of trying again. It’s easier to endure setbacks and face your fears in this type of caring atmosphere.

Gets Them Moving: We can’t stress enough the importance of getting fresh air and moving your body! Exercise is crucial in achieving optimal health, and camp is all action! From swimming to hikes, your children will learn to develop a healthier lifestyle.

Makes Them Unplug: When kids take a break from technology, they rediscover their creativity and imagination. Stepping away for their phones encourages them to interact with others and build social skills. This introduces them to all different types of people and allows them to form new friendships.

Promotes Independence: Camp is the perfect place for kids to make decisions for themselves. It provides them with a sense of control and builds self-esteem. This transformative experience offers kids opportunities to challenge themselves and go outside of their comfort zone, filling them with a sense of accomplishment.

Want your children to have a happy and healthy summer? Let Camp Tioga help!  Set in the beautiful Endless Mountain region of Pennsylvania, we’re here to provide your child with a summer full of activity, fun and friendship. For more information on all that Camp Tioga has to offer, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, or give us a call at 516-938-0894.

Summer Camp Essentials

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Summer camp is only 51 days away--but hey, who’s counting?

We bet your kids are anxiously anticipating the first day of camp, so we want to make sure you don’t forget a thing! In addition to the necessities, like active wear, sneakers, sunglasses and socks, the following camp essentials are ones your kids won’t want to leave home without.

Clothing Labels: It’s super helpful to make sure all clothing is labeled before you send your children off to camp, but it’s easy to forget to label something. Peel-and stick labels like these are great to have on hand in the event that one falls off, or your child’s favorite pair of jeans slip into their duffel bag unlabeled.

Water Accessories: One of the best parts of summer camp is partaking in the fun water activities, so you’ll want to make sure your kids are ready to dive in! Pack at least two bathing suits, and have them bring extra towels. Water shoes are helpful for protecting their feet outside and can also be worn in the shower.

Bug Spray: We can’t stress this one enough! Nobody wants unwanted visitors, especially when they’re creepy and crawly. Help your child stay itch-free in style with these cool bug repellent wristbands. Or if you want to opt for the more traditional spray, make sure you get them one that is DEET-free and safe.

Journal/Stationery: Writing in a journal is a great way for your child to keep track of his/her daily thoughts and fun experiences. Providing them with their own set of stationery ensures you will most likely get a letter home, letting you know how much fun camp is!

Toiletries: While this may seem obvious, we would be remiss if we failed to mention reminding them to bring basic bathroom essentials. These items can get lost in the shuffle while packing, so make sure they don’t forget their toothbrush, chapstick, soap and shampoo. Perhaps the most important thing to remember--sunscreen! Camp is all about having fun in the sun, but avoiding a painful sunburn is key!

Camp is right around the corner, but there’s still time to enroll at Camp Tioga! Join us for the summer of your life and enjoy our picturesque grounds, 80 activities offered and make lasting friendships and memories. Call 516-938-0894 or visit us on Twitter and Facebook to learn more.