Putting safety in the hands of your children might seem a little risky. After all, if something looks fun – they’ll want to do it, no matter the risk. And if something doesn’t seem fun – putting on sunscreen for example – it probably won’t be at the top of their to-do list. Part of prepping for camp is putting safety into the hands of your camper. You’ve made sure the camp is accredited, you’ve talked to the camp director and toured the location, you checked the packed bag and everything’s set. But what if they forget to put sunscreen on? What if they jump into water that’s too deep for them? What if!?
I don’t want anyone to associate “risk” with “camp”. Camp should be a fun and positive experience! In fact, there’s a lot to be said for positive risk taking at camp – something I’ll cover next week. For now, know that accredited camps have put measures in place to assure that safety remains a top priority. However, as a parent, you need to make sure your child knows what risks are okay and which are not based upon their skill level. A child who doesn’t know how to swim shouldn’t be in the water without a personal flotation device, for example. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to prep kids with products that will reduce risk overall. This week we’re covering risky business and some ways to put safety into campers’ hands so you can confidently hug goodbye.
If your child has a medical condition (anything from seizures to food allergies), you’ve probably informed the camp and the camp medical staff. But does your 8-year-old know that the milk at the breakfast table isn’t soy milk? Kids want to feel normal while away, so they might assume that the milk at breakfast won’t cause them a lactose allergy. Be sure to discuss what to do in situations that involve their medical conditions. Teach them the right questions to ask (“Does this cookie have nuts in it?”), and encourage them to put their safety and comfort first. Nothing will ruin a day at camp like spending it in the Nurse’s Station.
When it comes to the sun, we’re all very aware of the risks. Not only can sunburn ruin a few days at camp, but it can be dangerous in the future as well. Be sure you’re teaching your child the proper way to apply sunscreen before they leave for camp and encourage them to apply it in the morning, after lunch and after being in the water. With a list of chemicals for ingredients, sunscreen itself can be risky at times. Look into using an all-natural sunscreen; they’re better for you and for the environment. Here are some options from Practically Green that fit the bill.
Bug bites, though more annoying than anything, can ruin a night of sleep and make your camper cranky. It’s tempting to send the “deep woods” version of bug spray along with your camper, but before you pack it in, allow me to suggest switching to DEET-free versions of repellent. According to Practically Green, “the CDC says that lemon eucalyptus oil is as effective as DEET.” Here’s a list of DEET-free insect repellants Practically Green suggests. Switch to one of these and avoid unnecessary exposure to chemicals.
The most common ailment among campers is a stomach ache and most of these are caused by dehydration. Sending along a reusable water bottle will cut down on waste and your child will be more readily able to tell it apart from the sea of sip and pitch bottles floating around. Here are some great reasons to switch to a reusable bottle. When it comes to which bottle to choose, here’s my personal favorite!
Is your child a dare devil and a risk taker? What are some risks you hope your kids do take at camp and what are some risks you hope they’ll avoid?
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I don’t leave my kids at any “camp” I take my kids camp’n
I don’t have any kids of my own, but am crazy about my passel of nieces and nephews.
I think the scenarios you discuss are applicable not only to camping but to outings with the families of friends or slumber parties. It’s a great idea to practice scenarios so your kids will have easy access to questions that can keep them safe, and will have been reminded not to put social discomfort ahead of safety concerns. Teaching them how to address issues clearly will help everyone involved have a good experience. Thanks for an idea I’ll be discussing later.
Beth, sorry I didn't see this comment until just now! I'm sure you're a gem of an auntie! Can't wait to hear how the chat goes!