Going to summer tennis camp for the first time can be scary for young children. As a parent, you can see the benefits to tennis camps for kids, but your child may need some more reassuring. Camp can be an exciting experience, and it will be stress-free when you know your child has everything they need to feel safe, have fun, and be comfortable the entire time.
To help your child feel as prepared for camp as possible, here is a list of things to bring to tennis summer camp.
Summer Tennis Camp Essentials
Choosing a local camp is a great idea for first-time campers as it allows you the freedom to stop by or bring any necessities your child may need. Most camps have extra supplies if there is an emergency, but you and your child may like the comfort of knowing you are close by. The following items should definitely be included when you are packing ahead of camp days. Having these with your child will give you both a sense of security.
Snacks and Lunch
If your child is attending camp for the entire day (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.), be sure to pack snacks and lunch to keep them energized. If your child is attending for half-day, they have two 15-minute breaks, so pack some healthy fruit and snacks to keep them going.
Tennis Clothes
Pack light, breathable, clothes for your child. Breathable materials will keep your child cool and comfortable, and materials like cotton are easy to clean. Rolling clothes in a suitcase or duffle bag will provide more space for other important things. Some items often included on a camper’s packing checklist for day or overnight camp are t-shirts, shorts, long pants, jeans, jacket, raincoat, sweater, swim suit, hat, pyjamas, fleece outwear, socks, and underwear.
Sun Block
Sun block is an extremely important item to pack for your child. Choose a sun block with high SPF protection (30 or above) and make sure it is sweat-proof and waterproof. Any liquid or cream items can be packed in a large plastic Ziploc bag to prevent any spills.
Water Bottle
Be sure your child brings a refillable water bottle to camp to stay hydrated. Camps will have water fountains for a quick drink, but it is a good idea to provide your child a water bottle to carry around, especially during the hot summer months. Also, make sure it is labeled to prevent any mix-ups.
Unnecessary Things You Should Not Bring to Camp
The following items are two of the most popular items summer camps ask campers not to bring. The camp environment is intended to be an “unplugged” experience that encourages kids to play, learn, and spend time in nature. Although these items are convenient, they can be a distraction and can hinder the true benefits to be had from the camp experience.
Electronics
Some camps forbid the use of electronics such as cellphones during the week. Campers who bring cellphones often have a harder time adjusting to life at camp and quickly feel homesick. A huge part of the camp environment is to learn to be independent, and by disallowing your child to bring technology, they will have better interest in the activities and interacting with other campers. Also, bringing expensive electronics to camp may not be desirable because of the risk of items getting broken or lost.
Expensive Items/Valuables
It is also recommended not to bring any expensive items to camp. It will devastate your child if they are broken or lost. Also, please do not send your child with a lot of money to camp. A modest amount is all that is necessary to buy any snacks or souvenirs desired.
Get a Packing Checklist from Bayview Village Tennis Camp
If you need more information about tennis summer camps in Toronto, call Bayview Village Tennis Camp. We advise parents on important things they should know before bringing their kids to camp. Our team includes Tennis Canada-certified instructors who work to teach kids not only how to have fun but also how to play smart and safe. For more information about the junior and advanced summer tennis programs, call us at (905) 889-7293 or e-mail pnielsen889@rogers.com.