The Camp Experience

If your child has never attended camp before, you probably have lots of questions. Your son or daughter will want to know what to expect. You'll want to make sure they'll be happy and safe. Although every camp is different, here are some generalized answers to some of the most typical questions you and your child may ask.

How will my child benefit from camp?

There are so many benefits of a happy summer camp experience. Foremost for many families, is just knowing that their child has a safe place to be during the summer. Here are some of Cambridge Camping's favorite things your child will gain at camp:

• Community and friendships.
  Your child will be expected to participate in camp as an active member of the camp community.
• Independence and responsibility.
  Your child will be held accountable for his/her behavior and encouraged to do well.
• Role models.
  Campers look up to the older kids and the camp staff. Campers who return year after year enjoy growing into the roles the once admired.
• Social and intellectual development.
  Throughout the summer your child will be active and growing, learning new things and skills.
• New experiences.
  Trips to new places, learning to swim, diverse campers and staff, and much more!

Who are the camp counselors?

Typically, camp counselors are young adults, aged 18 and over, who like children, being active and being a part of a cooperative camp community. Many of them are college students or school teachers who have some flexibility with their summers.

In Massachusetts camps required to perform CORI* and SORI* checks on all staff members.

*Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI)
*Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI)

What is it like to stay away at an overnight camp?

Most overnight camps give children an opportunity to experience natural environments. Their buildings are simple and rustic. Campers should expect to get dirty and spend time out in the weather. There are bugs.

Campers are usually assigned to a cabin group with 8 to 12 children of their age and gender. They sleep together in bunk beds in a single room. Sometimes there are bathrooms in the cabin; sometimes toilets and showers are located in another building near by.

When my child goes to overnight camp, what should I pack for him/her?

• Below is a typical packing list. Your child's overnight camp will probably send you a list of what they recommend you pack.
• Sleeping bag and pillow
• Comfortable clothing-pack for different kinds of weather. Include t-shirts, shorts, sweatshirts, a warm jacket, long pants and plenty of socks and underwear.
• Swimsuit and towel
• Rain gear
• 2 pairs of Good walking shoes/Sneakers
• Toiletries-soap, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and shampoo.
• Writing materials-paper, pens, pencils, envelopes, and stamps.
• Flashlight with extra batteries

DON'T PACK anything fragile or valuable. Cel phones, lighters, matches, weapons, video games and electronic devices do not belong at camp. Many camps also do not allow items such as candy, and make-up. Again, your child's camp will let you know their policies.

What if I don't know anyone?

Going to camp for the first time can feel scary. But soon, you'll be busy having fun and making friends. You won't be the only one at camp who arrives not knowing anyone. You won't be the only first-time camper. You'll spend your whole camp session with a group of kids your age that you will get to know well, and will probably miss when you return home.

What if I my child gets homesick? Can my child call home?

Most camps strongly discourage phone calls. It usually inspires homesickness more than it helps. Camp is your child's opportunity to become a little more independent. You can help him or her best by sending plenty of mail and encouraging your child to enjoy the camp activities and new friends while he/she is there.