HOW TO CHOOSE A CHILDREN’S CAMP?

The first thing that is important to look at is the adults who go to the camp, the staff, the staff, the organizers. Ideally, when choosing a camp, you should go to it in advance and evaluate it. Make sure your values ​​and attitudes match those of the locals. It’s also good when the camp has ready-made scheduled programs, for example, like here: https://maker.sg, then you can see everything in detail and choose with your child what he likes.

Even in prestigious and expensive camps, the psychological atmosphere is not very favorable. The counselors are well chosen, but, for example, the staff of the canteen, cleaners, administrators – people that children encounter every day – raise their voices or set an example of a disrespectful attitude. As a result, all methodological developments, the advantages of the program, and pedagogical work may not withstand a collision with harsh reality. Communicate with staff of different camps and look for those who are right for you and your child. Some children and families need a tough coach, others need a caring nanny.

The second important point is what the child will do in the camp. The shift schedule should be tight and busy enough so that the children do not have periods when they are left to their own devices and loitering around. Regardless of age, it doesn’t end well.

Assess your living conditions. Some guys are used to five-star hotels and a buffet, others feel great in tents. This is a strictly individual question, which is better to decide for yourself and discuss with the child in advance in order to think through all the nuances. Look carefully at the photos and read the reviews. It is important to talk with the child about the living conditions he is going to, so that this does not come as a surprise to him, which can spoil the impression of the first days of the shift.

How to discuss an upcoming trip with a child?

Discuss as much as possible and clearly what awaits him. Tell him about your experience, if any, about the pros and possible difficulties that he may face in the beginning. Do not lie and promise something that definitely will not happen. For example, some parents promise to pick up the child in a week, hoping that he will get involved and change his mind. In such cases, children are waiting for the arrival of their parents, regardless of whether they like the camp or not.

Also, if your son or daughter has travel concerns, provide as much information as possible. Go to a preliminary meeting, introduce the staff, show the description, photos, videos and reviews. A lack of evidence breeds fear, and fear breeds negative expectations and anxiety. Even before the trip, the child can wind himself up so that the camp will seem to him the worst place on the planet.

What can a camp give a child?

The camp provides a lot. A good camp is independence, different life skills, and new friends. If it is chosen correctly, it provides the most important experience for both the child and parents, since it is also not easy for adults to part with babies. However, you need to choose your camp wisely. An unsuccessful trip can discourage the desire to relax without parents.