While June might seem far away, you and your children have probably started to think about your summer plans. If you’ve decided on summer camp, your kids should have a vacation they’ll never forget — but you need to prepare beforehand. This way, you can ensure they have the best experience possible.

Here are six tips to consider before your children head to summer camp.

1. Find a Good Fit 

First, you need to choose the best camp for your children. There are more than 13,000 camps in the United States, so you have a lot to explore. Plus, some camps offer more than just outdoor physical activities, which means you aren’t limited to the classic camp experience. For example, your creative-minded child might enjoy an art-focused program. If you have a child with disabilities, you could look into special needs camps, too. 

Consider the camp’s timeframe. Many are day camps, so they happen from morning to evening, and the campers go home by dinner. However, sleepaway camps occur over several weeks at a campground that might be far from your home. It’s essential to gauge your kids’ preparedness to see which one will work best. 

Be sure to consider the camp’s credentials, as well. If you can visit the camp before you enroll, you should. This way, you and your kids can see whether there’s a proper fit. Remember to let them have a say in the final decision.

2. Schedule a Doctor’s Appointment 

After you choose a camp, your kids should head to the doctor for a physical. Usually, camps require certain vaccinations, so you need to ensure they have their shots in order. It may also be necessary to have their medical provider sign health forms. Either way, you should get them to the doctor in advance so you don’t find yourself scrambling at the last minute.

3. Check the Packing List 

Many camps provide packing lists so campers know what to bring with them. These guides won’t be too extensive for day camps since your kids will still be at home. However, you should expect a longer one for sleepaway experiences. Be sure to gather the needed supplies sooner rather than later so you don’t feel rushed. 

Remember not to stray from the packing list. There are some items camps don’t allow campers to have — and you don’t want your children to be in trouble with staff on the first day. It might be a battle to separate your kids from their video games, but you need them to start camp on the best foot possible. 

While you pack, you should label everything with a permanent marker so they don’t misplace their belongings. There will be dozens of children at the same camp, so you can’t expect your kids to stay organized without help. Otherwise, you might end up with their bunkmate’s suitcase when camp ends.

4. Remember Medical Needs 

Do your kids have specific health needs, such as allergies? If so, you should let the camp know beforehand. This way, they’ll know exactly how to care for your children while they’re at camp. If your kids go to a sleepaway camp, you should remember to include enough medication and supplies.

5. Set Expectations Beforehand 

It can be tough to transition to either day or sleepaway camp when your children have never gone through a similar experience. That’s why you should talk about expectations early. Let your kids ask questions so you aren’t bombarded with them the night before camp starts. Remember to discuss feelings, too. 

These conversations won’t eliminate homesickness. However, you can help your kids prepare much better when you acknowledge that they might be nervous or anxious. Be sure to chat about ways to alleviate loneliness when they miss you at camp, such as bringing a family photo to put near their bunk.

6. Do a Practice Run 

If you’re concerned about whether your kids will be able to handle time away from home, you could try a practice run. Schedule a sleepover with their grandparents, cousins or friends to simulate camp. It’s smart to do at least one or two in the weeks before camp so they can easily transition. 

This experience should help them realize they’ll be just fine when they leave home. It’ll be a bit different at camp because they’ll likely be around new people, but you can still make progress. If your children plan to attend a day camp, you can organize a day-long playdate instead.

Use These Tricks to Plan for Summer Camp the Right Way 

There’s no denying that summer camp will be a memorable time for your kids. It’s a rite of passage that allows them to meet new friends and have new experiences while learning to be independent. These tricks should help them be as prepared as possible for the best summer ever.