Day Camps
Day campers need camp stuff, too!
– sturdy backpack
– water bottle
– sunscreen
– sun hat
– swimsuit, towel, flip flops
Label Everything
There are lovely label systems for sale online (see MabelsLabels.com), but here are some low- to no-cost solutions.
– one fat rubber band (the kind that often holds heads of broccoli together) + one slim Sharpie pen = instant, indestructible label for a water bottle, sunscreen, and similarly shaped stuff
– tie a ribbon on it: to make backpacks, duffel bags, and sports equipment stand out tie a brightly colored ribbon to it
– reuse: scour your collection of old suitcases for stray luggage tags
– abbreviate: when labeling clothing, a simple initial or colored star on the care tag will end ownership disputes and help it stand out at the lost and found
You might not think of it
Surprising additions that can ease the transition to and from camp.
– a checklist to make sure everything makes it back home
– feminine needs for girls who might be away from home when their period starts
– extra batteries
– a tote bag or two for carrying wet swimsuits and other stuff between activities
– plastic bags: stuff gets wet, stuff gets dirty, plastic bags keep everything else clean
– nail clippers, Chapstick, and tissues: these are the things every kid is used to finding in Mom’s purse, but never had to keep track of on his own
– a shower basket
– a raincoat or poncho with a hood: your camper will thank you
– seriously sturdy shoes: they’re going to take a beating
Make it the best summer yet
These aren’t necessities, but they can make a good summer great.
– a little surprise: if your camper packs her own bags, tuck in a note or picture she’ll find when she gets to her cabin
– a journal: even if your kid isn’t the journaling type now, a summer of new experiences may turn him into one, and he’ll need a place to write new friends’ addresses
– portable games (Uno is a classic) for bonding with roomies
Leave it at home
Make sure you know your camp’s policies on these.
– electronics
– food
– money
– anything beloved and breakable
