Summer Camp Checklist

Written by Sue Kirchner

School is out and the Summer Camp season is upon us. Are you ready? 

At our house, we are in full Summer Camp preparation mode. We’ve signed up for some specialty day camps and registered for overnight camps for both my son and daughter. It will be the first year away for my daughter, for two weeks at camp. Scary, but exciting! 
We’re also evaluating our summer camp gear from last year to make sure we have everything ready to go on Day 1. 

Here’s a checklist I created for myself. I hope it helps you get organized, as well.   Send in all medical forms for camp.      

• Order any medication refills, especially epi-pens, so the counselors can administer care to your child at camp       
  
• Check to see if bathing suits still fit
  
• Check to see if the kids’ pool towels have holes in them. If yes, get some new ones.
  
• Purchase sun screen and bug spray (don’t use old one under the sink – it’s probably not effective anymore)
  
• Make sure school backpack is holding up and can carry camp gear easily. 
  
• If too small, buy a duffle bag.
  
• Get a new lunch box if old one is looking a little shabby. 
  
• Take the opportunity to upgrade to a new waste free lunch box.
  
• Definitely get 2 stainless water bottles ready and waiting (Trust me, you need two because you are going to lose 1 within the first week of camp or you won’t get around to washing it one night and don’t need to stress about it.)       
  
• Double check your kids’ sneakers. Many camps don’t let kids wear flip flops or sandals.
  
• Write your child’s name on everything!
  
• Stock up on trading cards or little games that the kids can take to camp to play with their new friends (My kids used to love trading Pokemon cards at camp, The next year it was little erasers. Wait until after Day 1 to see what’s hot this year.)     
  

If your kids are old enough to go to overnight camp, they might also need the following:

• Note cards to write a note home to Mom & Dad
  
• Disposable camera to capture memories 
  
• Sleeping bag
  
• Pillowcase
  
• Toiletry bag
  
• Toiletries
  
• Snacks 
  
• Rain poncho
  
• Laundry Bag  

What did I miss? What does your child need for Summer Camp?   You Might Also Like:   How to Choose the Right Summer Camp for Your Child 10 Ways to Have Fun Outside with the Kids this Summer 51 Summer Family Fun Ideas 

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Sue Kirchner is a family fun coach, blogger, kids party planner, and weekly contributor to Patch.com. Sue and her family fun ideas have been featured on TV, newspapers, magazines, blogs, as well as her own family fun site ChocolateCakeMoments.com.