Released May 19, 2008

LINCOLN, Neb. — Summer 4-H camps are a time for youth to learn new things, meet new people and explore a world bigger than their backyards.

However, there are a few things parents should consider before the kids go away to camp this summer, said Jill Walahoski, extension educator with Nebraska 4-H.

Walahoski offers these tips to help both parents and children prepare for the camp experience:

– Visit the camp in advance. Parents who live near the camp should feel free to contact the director and stop in for a quick tour. If not, parents should plan for extra time at drop off to walk around with their campers to get comfortable with the environment.

– Get answers to questions. Once a camp is selected, parents can contact the camp director for answers to any questions or concerns regarding camp. They also should take time to communicate with camp officials and let them know if there are special circumstances or considerations regarding a child's well being or behavior.

– It's also a good idea for parents to talk to other families who have gone to the camp in years past to familiarize themselves with what goes on. This will help parents and campers know what to expect.

– Parents should go over the daily schedule with their camper so there are no surprises. Learn about life at camp.

– Problem solve with children by using "what if" situations to prepare for unexpected events. Parents should discuss: What if you lose your belongings? What if you don't get along with another child? What if you don't feel well? Children should brainstorm for solutions and make sure they know the "chain of command" at camp for handling problems.

– Spend time at a park or even in backyard getting comfortable with being outside. Many children spend a great deal of time engaged in indoor activities. Parents should make sure their children are prepared for an agenda that occurs mainly outside.

– Consider an overnight with a family member or friend in advance, so this is not a child's first experience away from home. Talk about any concerns or questions the child has about spending the night away from home.

– Remember, homesickness is fairly common. Missing home, parents, pets or friends is pretty normal. It is part of growing up and leaving home. Parents should speak openly about it so that these feelings are experienced with less anxiety and more understanding. Camp staff is trained to help children through these ups and downs.

– Parents should discuss communication at camp to prepare campers for a limited amount of interaction with their parents. Plan ahead to e-mail or write letters that the camp staff can deliver during camp.

– Finally, parents should prepare themselves for their children going off to camp. Parents have made a wonderful choice for their children. They will experience fun, new friends, new activities and many exciting adventures. However, it's not uncommon for parents to feel a sense of anxiety about them being away from home.

To accommodate all campers, 4-H summer camps are offered in a variety of lengths, interest areas, locations and prices.

"The goal of 4-H camp is simple, we want youth to leave our camp better equipped to make healthy, positive and informed decisions," Walahoski said. "The Nebraska 4-H Camps and Centers provide a variety of opportunities for youth to learn and develop life skills, leadership, team building and friendships."

More information about summer camp experiences can be found at the following Web sites: American Camp Association, and Nebraska 4-H, or contact Jill Walahoski at (402) 472-1710 or Sara Ellicott at (402) 472-2846.

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http://ianrnews.unl.edu/static/0805191.shtml

Contacts: Jill Walahoski, (402) 472-1710

Sara Ellicott, (402) 472-2846

Sandi Alswager Karstens, (402) 472-3030