So you’re thinking of sending your son to camp for the first time, but where do you start?
Sending your son to a Jewish overnight all-boys summer camp is a significant milestone for both him and you. It’s an opportunity for personal growth, spiritual enrichment, and making lifelong friends and memories! But how and when do you start preparing them for the camp experience when they don’t know what to expect?
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how and when to start preparing your son for Camp Avoda- the best Jewish Youth Camp around!
- Start Early- Ride the wave of the previous summer!
- Sure it’s only September, but while friends, family, neighbors, and others in your community are reflecting on this past summer at camp, get your son involved in those conversations.
- Show him pictures of other kids his age having fun at camp (find these on our website and our social media channels) doing all of the things he loves to do!
- Encourage him to talk to kids who went to camp and loved it, or introduce him to other children who’s parents are considering camp for the first time too.
- Involve your son in the process
- Let him know you’re thinking about enrolling him at Camp Avoda this upcoming summer
- Let him explore the website with you and hop on a call with our directors if you feel he’s ready to do so
- Talk about the activities he’ll experience, like sports, swimming, field trips, and Jewish cultural events! This helps builds excitement and reduce any apprehension.
- Include your son in choosing camp gear, packing, and discussing expectations.
- Focus on Emotional Readiness (especially for younger campers)
- Discuss the idea of being away from home in a positive light. Highlight the independence and growth that comes with attending camp.
- If your son hasn’t spent much time away from home, consider short overnight stays with relatives or friends to build his comfort level.
- Remind him that while he’s at camp he’ll be with friends 24/7 enjoying nonstop activities!
- Attend Events, Gatherings, and Become Active in our Community
- As a parent of a first time camper, you’re not alone!
- At Avoda, we host fun events all year long to keep our community united and excited for another year at camp.
- Meet other parents and let your son meet other campers his age at one of our many community events. You can keep tabs on what events are coming soon here!
- Get some New Gear and Start the Packing Early!
- Who doesn’t love new clothes or merch?! Get your son excited for what the coming summer will bring with some brand new Avoda Gear!
- Check out our packing list and check things off slowly as the months go by!
- Stay Positive and Enthusiastic
- Your excitement and confidence will help your son feel the same. Focus on the fun and the friendships he’ll make!
- We’re always here for reassurance! Email us or schedule a time to chat so we can work through any questions or concerns that arise as the summer gets closer.
Ready to prepare your son for an unforgettable summer? Explore our website, and feel free to reach out with any questions. Let’s make this summer one for the books!
To learn more about what we do, and our mission to make Jewish Summer Camp accessible for every child, explore our website or book a tour today at https://campavoda.org/tour/