Catie Young, Youth Development Director pictured right with Assistant Director Natalie Woods.
By Catie Young, Downtown Youth Development Director
We’re getting closer to summer, and with it comes the exciting transition from school routines to the boundless energy of camp! As the school year winds down, it’s common for kids to experience a mix of excitement, anxiety, and changes in behavior. This week, we’re sharing some practical tips to help you and your children navigate this transition smoothly.
The End-of-School Rollercoaster:
The shift from the structured environment of school to the more flexible schedule of summer can be challenging for some children. The loss of routine, combined with the anticipation of summer fun, can lead to:
- Increased Anxiety: Uncertainty about what summer will bring can cause worry and unease.
- Mood Swings: The shift in schedules and expectations can lead to emotional ups and downs.
- Behavioral Changes: Kids might exhibit more irritability, restlessness, or difficulty focusing.
Tips for a Smooth Transition:
- Maintain Some Routine: While summer offers more flexibility, try to maintain some consistency in bedtime, wake-up times, and meal schedules. This provides a sense of stability during a time of change.
- Talk About Camp: Engage your children in conversations about camp. Discuss the activities they’re looking forward to, the friends they’ll make, and the new experiences they’ll have. This helps build excitement and reduce anxiety.
- Gradual Adjustment: In the weeks leading up to camp, gradually introduce elements of the camp schedule into your daily routine. For example, if camp starts early, begin adjusting their wake-up time a little earlier each day.
- Create a Visual Schedule: For younger children, a visual schedule of their camp week can be helpful. This allows them to see what to expect each day and reduces the feeling of uncertainty.
- Pack Together: Involve your children in packing their daily camp essentials. This gives them a sense of control and ownership over their camp experience.
- Practice Independence: Encourage your children to practice skills they’ll need at camp, such as packing their own lunch, putting on their swimsuit, applying sunscreen, and managing their belongings.
- Address Concerns: Listen to your children’s concerns and address them openly and honestly. Reassure them that camp is a safe and supportive environment.
- Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate the end of the school year and the beginning of summer. Acknowledge their accomplishments and express your excitement for their camp experience.
- Allow for Downtime: Summer should be a time for relaxation and fun. Ensure your children have opportunities to unwind and recharge.
- Communicate with Camp Staff: If you have any specific concerns or if your child has any special considerations we should be aware of, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to support you and your child in having a successful camp experience.
Bonus! Couch to Camp:
To help your campers get ready for their summer adventures, we’ve created a fun “Couch to Camp” calendar! Just like a “Couch to 5k” program, this month-long calendar includes one simple activity each day throughout May to help your child prepare for their first day of camp.
From gradually increasing water intake to spending more time outdoors acclimating to the summer sun, each activity is designed to make the transition to camp smooth and enjoyable. You’ll also find helpful tips for gathering important information and packing their camp bag.
By implementing these strategies and using the “Couch to Camp” calendar, you can help your children make a seamless transition from the school year to the exciting world of camp. We’re looking forward to a fantastic summer filled with fun, learning, and growth!
To learn more about the camps offered by the Columbia YMCA visit our Summer Camps Page here!
