Summer Camp Checklist for Parents

March 31, 2011 - PRLog -- Sending your child away to camp can be an emotional and stressful time. In order to keep the frenzy of last minute packing to a minimum, it’s crucial that you create a summer camp checklist to make packing easier and hassle-free. Don’t forget to tuck copies of the list into your children’s bags so they can check off everything they should bring home.

Day camp: Pack a bag full of necessities
The list of essentials for day camp should fit into your child’s backpack.
•   The first item is sunscreen with an SPF rating of 15 or higher. You should also include a bathing suit and towel, insect repellant, a water bottle, a hat, comfortable running shoes or sports sandals, an extra set of clothes and a raincoat/parka.
•   If your child requires any prescription medication, then you should accompany the medicine with a note from you about how the medicine should be administered. One of our staff members or counselors will ask for your child’s medical information to keep on file, but a note attached to the medicine is still a big help.
•   Granola bars, fruit, juice box, water, trail mix, etc. are great snacks for any hungry camper. Avoid chocolate- it melts in the heat and gives your child a brief sugar high, followed by an energy slump.

Overnight camp: Fundamentals for a longer stay
Baylor’s overnight camps require several more important additions to the checklist compared to our day camp. Because it is a longer camp experience, it’s important that you pack all the essentials to last them the length of their stay.
•   Pack 10 days’ worth of socks and underwear in case your child get theirs dirty while playing sports or doing other camp activities. In addition, we recommend packing a few T-shirts, a few pairs of shorts and pajamas. Please check with the camp director regarding any special sporting gear or equipment (lacrosse sticks, golf clubs, etc.)
•   Our air-conditioned dorms are quite comfortable and we provide all of the linens.  A nice pillow from home isn’t required, but many campers bring their own.
•   Toiletries should include soap and shampoo, toothbrush and paste, a hairbrush, face cloth and two towels (in case one gets wet). Don’t forget feminine hygiene products if they are necessary.

Remember, these are just basic necessities that are recommended to ensure a pleasing camp experience, and they will differ based on the specific camp. At Baylor, we are committed to maintaining a safe environment where your child can explore and interact with others safely and comfortably.

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Baylor is a coeducational boarding school located in Chattanooga, TN. Baylor students can choose from college-level AP courses in 22 subjects, ranging from Studio Art to Environmental Science. To learn more about Baylor, we invite you to visit http://www.baylorschool.org today.