Summer day camp is a memorable experience for many children. The camps provide whole days of outdoor activities and ways to socialize with other children. For parents, one of the best parts of day camp is the ability to pick up their children each day and see them before a new day of adventures begins.

To help the transition go smoothly, check out this quick guide to picking up your kids from summer day camps.

Snacks In the Car

Even though summer day camps will often serve meals and snacks, children have long days full of excitement. They may socialize too much to eat a lot or burn off so many calories they end up feeling hungry right when they get picked up. Have a snack ready to go in the car for them.

Pack a few different options and include drinks as well. If you do not allow eating in your car, then pick somewhere close to stop and enjoy some food. The snacks will help them feel re-energized until they arrive back home for dinner.

Before the day camp begins, take a child to a grocery store to pick out some snacks they will want to eat throughout the week.

Conversation & Discussion

Each time you pick your child up from camp, you will likely want to hear about their day and the events that occurred. Days are long and children are likely tired, so you should approach any conversation with some patience in mind. Keep the questions open-ended to try and get a detailed response.

For example, you could ask a child what their favorite part of the day was or what they look forward to on future days. Let the child lead the conversation and hear stories about all their adventures and fun times.

Relaxation & Downtime

A day camp can feature a lot of stimulation and socialization. Give your child a chance for some relaxing downtime once they get home. Wait a little bit to serve dinner or have the child do any chores. Even just thirty minutes of downtime can make a huge difference.

Next-Day Prep

Summer day camp gives a child a chance to grow some independence and responsibility. Extend those attributes at home each night. Instead of rushing around each morning to gather items, have a child prepare their day camp bag. The prep may include packing a new outfit, drying bathing suits, and checking on extra supplies like sunscreen.

By the end of day camp, a child will have a routine established and can transition those skills to other aspects of their life like school.

Every child is different, so try to adapt the guide to fit your child's needs and help make day camp a success. 

For more information, contact a local summer day camp organization.