For many families, summer camp is a major milestone. Whether it is a first overnight camp or a local day program, camp gives children the chance to develop life lessons outside of home.
“Summer camps provide amazing opportunities for children to build so many skills, develop confidence and independence, make long-lasting friendships and create memorable experiences,” says Rakibul Akter, MD, a pediatrician with Children’s Memorial Hermann Pediatrics in Katy. “But they can also be cause for many parents and children to feel some level of anxiety around the whole experience.”
The good news is that preparation can go a long way in helping children feel confident and ready for camp.
Start Preparing Before Camp Begins
Dr. Akter says emotional preparation should begin several weeks before camp starts, not the night before drop-off. “One of the most important things parents can do is model a positive attitude and build excitement around the camp experience,” he says. “Children often take emotional cues from adults and their caregivers.”
At the same time, parents should keep conversations honest and supportive. It’s normal for children to feel nervous about a new environment, unfamiliar routines or time away from home. “Homesickness is so common,” says Dr. Akter, “and that doesn't mean a child is necessarily failing or having a bad experience; it’s just that they miss you. Even I get homesick when I'm on a long trip sometimes.”
One of the best ways to prepare children emotionally is to help them practice independence ahead of time. Dr. Akter recommends focusing on simple daily skills, including:
- Packing and organizing belongings
- Following consistent morning and bedtime routines
- Applying sunscreen independently
- Bathing and dressing themselves
- Speaking up when they need help
Parents can also help children become more familiar with their camp of choice before they arrive. “Well before they leave, look at photos of the camp, review their schedule of activities and even practice short separations away from family,” Dr. Akter says. “This can help make the camp experience a lot more predictable and less overwhelming for children.”
Some families also send children with a comfort item, such as a bracelet, small stuffed animal or keychain. “Giving a child a small token is a helpful way to remind them that their family is always nearby,” he says. “This item can also provide some comfort if a camper ever does feel homesick and that longing for their family.”
Talk With Your Pediatrician Before Camp
For children with chronic medical conditions, preparation for summer camp becomes even more important. “Preparing for camp is a collaboration between the child, the parent and the pediatrician,” Dr. Akter says, especially for children with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, ADHD, type I diabetes, epilepsy or food allergies, just to name a few. Before camp begins, Dr. Akter advises that families should make sure:
- Medications are up to date and refilled.
- Emergency action plans are reviewed.
- Camp staff are aware of medical conditions.
- Children understand basic information about their condition.
“Parents can provide camp staff updated medical histories, a list of medications and clear instructions or action plans for when and how medications should be given if needed,” he says.
Many camps have trained medical staff or counselors who help manage medications and monitor symptoms. Still, Dr. Akter encourages children to gradually learn age-appropriate responsibility for their own health.
“A great reason to visit your pediatrician before camp is to allow the parent and the pediatrician an opportunity to work together to educate children on age-appropriate information about their own condition,” he offers. “That includes recognizing warning signs, asking for help and understanding how to use emergency medications if necessary.”
Managing Allergies at Camp
Allergies are another major concern for many families heading into summer, and one of the most important health topics to talk about before camp starts. This can include:
- Food & seasonal allergies
- Allergy-induced asthma
- Reactions to insect bites
- Medication allergies
Dr. Akter advises parents with children who have severe allergies to keep updated emergency medications, including EpiPens or antihistamines, along with a clear allergy action plan. “It’s helpful for kids to understand their own allergies in an age-appropriate way,” he says, “and that includes knowing which foods to avoid and signs of an allergic reaction.”
Simple habits to mitigate an allergic reaction also matter, and parents should encourage their children to:
- Wash their hands
- Check ingredient labels
- Avoid food sharing
- Alert adults when symptoms develop
Dr. Akter says helping children understand their allergies empowers them rather than frightens them.
Do Not Forget Summer Safety Basics
Many camp activities happen outdoors, which means sun protection, hydration and bug-bite prevention are essential.
Sun Safety
Dr. Akter says that sun safety is super important, especially with the hot Texas summers. To help protect your child in the relentless summer sun, he recommends the following:
- Broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Reapplying sunscreen every two hours
- Reapplying after swimming or sweating
- Wide-brimmed hats
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Lightweight long-sleeve swim shirts
“Many families remember that first application,” he says, “but the most commonly forgotten step is actually reapplying that sunscreen throughout the day.”
Hydration and Heat Safety
Children are especially vulnerable to heat exhaustion during summer activities. “Kids are so busy having fun that they often forget to hydrate,” explains Dr. Akter.
To help prevent your child from overheating, he suggests:
- Sending a refillable water bottle
- Encouraging regular water breaks
- Considering electrolyte drinks during prolonged activity
But as important as it is to encourage children to drink water, parents should teach children to recognize warning signs of overheating. “Your child should feel comfortable and encouraged to talk to an adult or camp counselor if they're overheating and not feeling well,” he says.
Some symptoms to watch for include:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Muscle cramping
Bug Protection and Tick Checks
Mosquitoes and ticks are common at many camps, especially in wooded or grassy areas. To help protect your child, Dr. Akter recommends EPA-approved insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin. Families that desire a more natural option should choose products containing eucalyptus oil.
Beyond spraying for bugs, it is important for your child to do a quick skin check at the end of the day for bites or ticks that may still be on their skin. Ticks particularly like to get in hair, behind ears and in the folds of skin between joints. If a tick is found, encourage your child to connect with a camp counselor to help remove it carefully with tweezers as close to the skin as possible, then clean the area with soap and water.
Helping Camp Feel Like a Positive Step Forward
While camp can feel emotional for both children and parents, Dr. Akter says it is also an important opportunity for growth. “Creating a good camp experience for a first timer requires intentional preparation and openness,” he advises. “Validating those feelings of excitement and apprehension can set up your child for success at camp.”
For many children, summer camp becomes a meaningful step toward greater independence and confidence. “Summer camp is a wonderful opportunity to allow our children to grow up, become more independent and learn how to be more responsible,” Dr. Akter says. “But most importantly, it is a chance to have fun with all the activities that summer camp has to offer and to make memories they’ll have for a lifetime.”
