6 Essential Tips for our First-Time Campers

Heading to summer camp for the first time is an exciting adventure for both campers and their parents. If you’re planning to join us at our all-girls camp in the beautiful Catskills, here are six essential tips to ensure you and your child are fully prepared for this unforgettable experience.

1. Know What to Pack

Packing the right items is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable camp experience. Ensure your child has all the necessities, such as weather-appropriate clothing, a sturdy pair of hiking boots, a flashlight, and of course, a few personal items from home to help them feel settled. Check our detailed packing list on our website to make sure you don’t miss anything essential!

2. Zoom with our Staff

Before your child arrives at camp, our camp director J will reach out and set up a Zoom meeting with your camper and you to go over all questions you might have! This virtual zoom can help your child become familiar with what to expect and ease any anxieties about the new experiences ahead.

3. Set Realistic Expectations

Discuss what camp will be like, focusing on both the fun activities and the moments where they might feel out of their comfort zone. Encourage your child to embrace all aspects of camp life, from making new friends to trying activities they’ve never considered before. Know that our staff is well-trained, and their main goal is to give your child the best summer of their life!

4. Establish Communication Guidelines

While it’s important to stay connected, part of the camp experience is learning independence. At our all-girls camp in the Catskills, we encourage letter writing (make sure to give your daughter envelopes & stamps!) and you can leave an email that will be printed out once a day and distributed before lunch. Discuss with your child how you’ll communicate and the best ways to stay in touch.

5. Discuss Homesickness and Coping Strategies

Homesickness is normal, especially for first-timers. Talk about these feelings beforehand and discuss strategies for coping. Remind your child of their strength and resilience, and how each day at camp will be filled with activities and support from camp counselors and peers. Foster a sense of adventure and inspire your child to give the camp experience a chance before homesickness sets in.

6. Encourage Open-Mindedness and Flexibility

Camp is full of new experiences and challenges. Encourage your child to stay open-minded and flexible, ready to tackle whatever comes their way. Emphasize the importance of trying new things and the role of such experiences in personal growth.

Ready for an Amazing Summer at Our New York Camp?

With these tips, first-time campers and their parents can feel more prepared for the exciting journey ahead at our summer camp in New York. We can’t wait to welcome you to our all-girls camp in the Catskills, where your child will make new friends, learn new skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime.