The first week of summer camp can be an exciting yet challenging adjustment for both campers and parents. At Toronto Kidz, we understand that transition and strive to make it as smooth as possible. We prioritize camper care above all else, ensuring that every child feels safe, comfortable, and excited to be here. Our dedicated team works hard to create a supportive environment where campers can thrive and make lasting memories. From personalized attention to fun activities, we’re committed to making this a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.
Understanding the Camp Environment
Before jumping into preparations, here is a run down of what Toronto Kidz Camp offers. Our camp offers a new theme each week, they differ for our younger campers (KIDZ Camp) and our older campers (Junior Camp). Everyday we do crafts, games, and activities learning about our theme for the week. We also play in the front yard, as well as the park everyday. Each week we go on a field trip on a school bus, which relates to our weekly theme.
Involve Your Child in the Packing Process
One of the best ways to prepare is to involve your child in packing their bag for the day. This way they know what they have in their bag and understand what they are prepared for. This not only helps them express their preferences but also instills a sense of responsibility. This could mean allowing them to choose a themed t-shirt for camp or their favourite snack bar, ultimately making them feel more connected to the experience.
Preparing a Summer Camp Backpack
Knowing what to pack in your backpack is needed in preparing for summer camp. Encourage your child to help assemble their backpack, ensuring it includes these essential items:
Lunch and Snack: At camp, we have a snack break in the morning and one in the afternoon. And of course, lunch at noon. Our campers are encouraged to bring a healthy snack for the morning to energize them for the day, and any sweet snack they may bring is saved for the afternoon.
Reusable Water Bottle: We are on the move each day, so bringing a water bottle is crucial so that your camper always has water on them. When we go to the park and field trips, a counsellor will bring a water jug to fill the campers water bottles when they need more.
Sunscreen: We spend a lot of time outside, and our counsellors ensure that each camper has sunscreen on before we head out. We have camp sunscreen for campers who may have left theirs at home.
Hat: Similar to sunscreen, we spend a lot of time outside so we do encourage our campers wear a hat for sun safety.
Change of Clothes: We take precautions when doing arts and crafts to keep campers' clothes from getting dirty, however sometimes it is unavoidable when playing outside. Having a change of clothes is helpful in case.
Swimsuit and Small Towel: Once a week we enjoy our 'Water Day' either at a splash pad or wading pool that we walk to or onsite. Ahead of time, you will know which day your child's group will have water play, so you know when to pack accordingly.
Comfortable Indoor Shoes: When we are indoors we play a lot of games which require comfortable footwear to move with ease. We do not allow our campers to run in open-toed sandals as it is a safety concern, please pack comfortable running shoes.
Raincoat and Rain boots on Rainy Days: During rainy days we spend more time doing indoor activities, however we try to get outside at least once. To prevent our campers from getting their clothes wet, weather appropriate jackets and footwear are mandatory.
How To Ease First Day Nerves
If your child is nervous about their first day of camp, browse our website together, showing pictures and the sample schedule to help them imagine the fun ahead of time.
If they're worried about not knowing anyone, reassure them that there will be plenty of other kids eager to make friends who are also nervous for their first day.
Reassure them that if they ever feel sad or uncomfortable, they can always turn to their counsellor, who is there to support them and ensure a great camp experience.
Addressing Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is common, especially for first-timers. Talk with them about how the drop-off works, so they feel part of the process, rather than being told what to do. Feeling part of the process can make it easier to say goodbye and feel excited to start the day. This is what the drop-off process generally looks like:
Parents line up with their child outside.
At 9:00 am (or earlier, if you have booked early care) staff opens the doors.
Each camper and parent is greeted by our Location Manager where they're checked in and told the colour of their group.
The camper is then taken to their group by one of our staff.
Each camper has their own box (cubby) with their name on it where they leave all their personal belongings.
Once in their group, they’ll meet their counsellors and new friends, and will start playing a game right away.
Safety Guidelines
Camper care is crucial to how we run our camp, our counsellors are trained to ensure the safety of our campers is prioritized. In order to have fun while keeping our camper safe we do things such as, wear yellow vests when leaving camp and have a school bus drive us to our field trips. We are always counting our campers, our staff is trained to always know how many campers are in their care at any time. Review our New Campers Guide 2025 with your child so they know what to expect.
Preparing for the End of Camp Days
Camp days can be tiring, so help your child unwind after a busy day. Consider creating a post-camp routine that includes:
Relaxation Time: Set aside time for calming activities, like reading or simply spending quiet time together.
Healthy Dinners: Offer wholesome meals after active days. At camp we run around a lot, its crucial our campers are eating well so they have energy for our daily games and activities.
Daily Reflections: Encourage your child to share their daily camp experiences. Ask open-ended questions about what excited them, something they learned, and their favourite part of the day.
Embracing Summer Camp Excitement
Getting ready for summer camp can be an enriching journey for both parents and children. By involving your child in planning, establishing healthy routines, and maintaining open communication, you can set the stage for a fun and memorable summer. Remember, camp isn’t just about adventure; it’s also a chance for personal growth and new friendships. Get your child excited about the new experiences they will have at camp this summer!
By implementing these practical tips, you can aid in a smooth and enjoyable transition to summer camp.
Here's to amazing adventures at Toronto Kidz Camp this summer!
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