Summer Camp with Little Ones🌞
I can’t believe school let out almost two weeks ago already! That in between school and camp hits differently, on one hand your relieved that school and the hustle of homework, PTA meetings and fundraisers are officially over but on the other just that quickly they’re out of the house again and off to camp.
The school year ends, and suddenly it’s summer—a season that promises both freedom and the challenge of keeping little minds and bodies busy. Whether your child is heading to a half-day art camp, nature explorers group, or their very first sleep-away experience ( omg your brave ), summer camp is one of those growing-up milestones that brings excitement… and a little anxiety.
Full Transparency —Even thinking about dropping my six year old off to his first camp, I could not sleep the night before. It’s so much different from school and the anxiety of it all was and still is completely overwhelming.
Here’s what helped me …
Emotionally Prepping Your Child (and Yourself)
For many small kids, camp is their first big step into independence outside the school environment. That can bring jitters—both for them and us.
Talk about what to expect: share stories, look at pictures of camp, and walk them through the schedule.
Normalize nerves: “It’s okay to feel a little nervous and excited at the same time.”
Remind them of their strengths: “You’re brave, kind, and great at making new friends.”
Moms, I know its hard but try to resist the urge to over-question: Let them process their experience without pressure.
(Focus on trust: They’re learning independence, and you’re giving them space to grow.)
What to Pack: The Essentials for Little Campers
When it comes to packing for summer camp—especially for younger kids—simple, labeled, and functional is the way to go. Here’s a go-to checklist even if your camp provides one:
Daily Day Camp Packing List:
Labeled backpack (lightweight & kid-sized)
Refillable water bottle
Sunscreen (spray or stick for easy reapplication)
Hat or sun visor
Change of clothes (especially for younger kids)
Swimsuit + towel (for water play days)
Lightweight rain jacket (just in case)
Comfort item (small plush or token if allowed)
Pro Tip: Label everything. Use waterproof name stickers or a Sharpie—because if it goes to camp, there’s a good chance it ends up in the lost and found.
Keep Camp Week Running Smoothly
Prep clothes, lunches, and bags the night before—mornings are not the time to hunt for goggles. ( its like school prep just with extra things to get lost in the sauce )
Create a drop zone at home: one spot for wet towels, art projects, and backpacks.
Set realistic expectations: Some days they’ll come home bursting with stories. Other days, they might be cranky and tired. Both are normal.
*Summer camp isn’t just about tie-dye t-shirts, it’s about giving our kids room to grow confidence, make decisions and feel proud of doing something on their own. It may feel big—and it is—but that’s what makes it so beautiful.