Summer Camp Care Package Ideas

Some camps provide email access and others allow cell phones, but campers who receive old-fashioned care packages through the mail from family members feel extra special. It's comforting to know that someone misses you and is thinking of you while you're away from home. Throwing together a care package for a summer camper doesn't have to be difficult or time-consuming. With dollar store goodies readily available and online retailers offering to ship a package for you, being a super-cool parent of a summer camper couldn't be easier.

  1. Camp Gear

    • You and your child probably packed everything he or she will need while away at camp, but care packages are all about going the extra mile. Maybe you packed a water bottle for you child, but was it her favorite color? The beach towel your child is using---does it have his hero on it? Other camp gear care package ideas include sunscreen, laundry bags, backpacks, duffel bags and flashlights. Be sure to send the care package early enough so that your child can use what you send.

    Memory Keepers

    • Many adults still remember their summer camp experiences. Send your camper a care package with goodies to help her record her memories. Consider sending a journal or diary. He may want to write down his friend's addresses, phone numbers and emails in an address book; she may want her friends to sign an autograph book. Include a disposable camera to encourage your child to document their experiences and stationary to encourage them to share it with you while they are away. If your child is at camp for a couple weeks, send your memory-keeper care package after he or she has had a chance to make some new friends. No child wants an autograph book without anyone to sign it.

    Entertainment

    • Summer camp is anything but boring; however, most camps schedule down time or "rest time" during each day. If your child isn't prone to resting, he or she may appreciate a care package with cards games, games like checkers, or books with word games (Sudoku, word finds, crossword puzzles). Send a lap desk so your child can work on his or her bunk bed.

    Prohibited Items

    • Some camps don't allow their campers to receive food, candy or gum, all of which can attract unwanted bugs and animals and can pose a potential health hazard. Other camps don't allow their campers to carry cash, credit cards, checks, etc. Other items commonly confiscated at summer camps include electronic games, matches, lighters, fireworks, toy guns, knives and nonprescription drugs. Visit the camp's website or contact the camp office by phone to learn what NOT to send to your child if you're unsure.

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