Children's CampsTopic OverviewMany children enjoy day camps and overnight camps. Research has shown that a camp experience can boost a child's self-esteem , social and leadership skills, and more. Day camps usually offer activities during school holidays or breaks. These activities may have a special theme, such as basketball or horseback riding. Private homes, local youth centers such as the YMCA, churches, schools, or child care centers for younger children may all offer day camp programs. Some states license day camps and usually include training requirements and behavior guidelines for all staff. Overnight camps range from one-night sleepovers to a few weeks. They usually involve a trip to a nearby destination, such as forest cabins or a beach. Overnight camps can be accredited by the American Camp Association. For more information, go to www.acacamps.org. All camps should have written health policies and disaster plans. They should also tell parents and children how to get the most out of the camp program. footnote 1 All campers should have a recent health evaluation and immunization record on file. Camp records should include how to contact parents in case of an emergency. Some children feel distressed (homesick) about leaving their home and loved ones to go to camp. Some of the things you can do to help prevent homesickness are: footnote 2
Related InformationReferences
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff Current as ofMay 4, 2017
Current as of: May 4, 2017 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics Council on School Health, American Academy of Pediatrics (2011). Policy statement: Creating healthy camp experiences. Pediatrics, 127(4): 794-799.
Thurber CA, et al. (2007, reaffirmed 2012). Clinical report: Preventing and treating homesickness. Pediatrics, 119(1): 192-201. Also available online: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/119/1/192.full.pdf.
|
Search the
Healthwise Knowledgebase Topic ContentsThis information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Healthwise, visit Healthwise.org. © 1995-2018 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. |