Over 10 million kids attend summer camp each year. For most, it's a fun and memorable experience full of challenges and excitement. In addition to the physical activities, kids learn about independence, cooperation, competition and teamwork. Most of all, kids learn to survive on their own in a new environment.

Although most kids are excited about going to summer camp, for some it can be a scary, anxiety-provoking experience. Using some of these tips can help your child feel more comfortable.

Tips for choosing the right camp for your child:

• Choose a camp that is suited to your child's personality, temperament and interests. If your child likes music, art or horseback riding, it makes sense to choose a camp with an emphasis in that area.
  
  
• Involve your child in choosing the camp. Review brochures and websites together. Ask for the names of other families who have attended the camp and call for a reference.
  
  
• Don't push kids to go to camp at an early age. Some kids are ready for "sleep away" camp at age five or six, while others would not even consider the idea at 14 or 15. If a child isn't ready for a full summer at camp, find a camp with shorter sessions.
  
  
• Consider a camp where your child knows at least one other person their age. Having one friend makes it easier to meet other kids.
  
  
• Visit the camp before the session starts. This will familiarize your child with the surroundings and give you a chance to meet the camp directors.

Keeping Your Child Safe at Camp

Summer camp is a safe environment with trained personnel available to assist with any physical and emotional problems. The leading issue at summer camp is homesickness. You can help prevent this by allowing your child to bring their favorite toy, book, music or photo. Homesickness is a normal reaction, so if your child calls home, let them know that you understand that it is hard to be away from home and you miss them, too. Focus on upcoming events such as visitor's day or a camp special event. Schedule regular phone contact, if it seems helpful. Homesickness usually passes in a few days.

There are rarely major illnesses or injuries that occur at camp, but it is always best to be prepared.

Here are six general guidelines to help your kids stay healthy while at summer camp:

• Get your child vaccinated. Be sure your kids' vaccinations are up-to-date. Ask your doctor what vaccines are recommended for summer camp.
  
  
• Encourage safe physical activities. Children should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity on most days of the week. To help prevent injury, pack protective gear such as helmet and life jackets (if not available at the camp). Make sure your child knows not to swim alone.
  
  
• Teach your kids to stay hydrated. Two of the biggest problems at summer camp are dehydration and sunburn - both are preventable. Let kids know they need to drink water on a regular basis throughout the day. They shouldn't wait until they feel thirsty to drink water. Encourage your kids to drink plenty of non-carbonated, sugar-free fluids throughout the day.
  
  
• Teach your kids to avoid wild animals. While this seems like common sense, a raccoon in the wild can look cute to a child, but, in fact, can be very dangerous. Teach kids that animals carry diseases that can make humans sick. Encourage them to watch from a safe distance and to not disrupt their natural surroundings.
  
  
• Pack appropriately. Be sure your kids have plenty of insect repellent and sunscreen to wear to protect themselves from mosquitoes, ticks and the sun. Make sure they know how to apply sunscreen and know that it needs to be reapplied throughout the day and after swimming. Pack layers of light-weight, light-colored clothes for hot days and blankets and warm clothes for cool nights.
  
  
• Prepare your kids. Teach kids what to do in an emergency. Pack basic first aid items, flashlights, batteries and sturdy shoes.

Summer camp is a great experience and offers so many benefits to kids. By living by the Boy Scout motto of "Be Prepared”, your child will have a fun and safe summer camp.

"Healthy Minds, Healthy Lives”, American Psychiatric Association.

"Health and Safety Tips for Summer Camp”, Centers for Disease Control