We’ve broken it down into 4 easy categories to better aid you when it comes to planning your shopping trip in advance. When we think outdoor camp you may only have things like bug spray and sunscreen come to mind, but there is so much more to consider. Quantities of these certain items will change depending on how long your child is going to be away, but for the most part the items will be the same throughout. Always check in with the camp itself if you have any specific questions or concerns when it comes to specific things your child needs or wants to have with them!

First and foremost: don’t forget to label everything! We make this really easy for you by offering a fun Sleepaway Camp Label Pack that you can find here.
Some other labels we recommend checking out are our ever-so-popular Water Bottle Bands, our Custom Clothing Stamp for any of the tagless clothing (like swim suits).  Any of our allergy or medical alert label if your child has a medical condition that needs to be known.

OUTDOOR STUFF NEEDED AT SLEEPAWAY CAMP:

• Bug Spray
• Sunblock (40 SPF and higher is best and waterproof)
• Aloe for sunburn relief
• Afterbite for mosquito relief
• Water bottle (depending on the time spent at camp, pack them 2 so they have a back up)
• Flashlight or lantern

CLOTHING REQUIRED FOR SUMMER CAMP:

• Swimming gear at least 2 or 3 bathing suits)
  
• Goggles (for little kids and these ones for bigger kids)
• Towels (1 for showering and 1 for the pool or lake)
• A few hats with a brim
• Sweats
• Water shoes
• Closed toed shoes
• Shower shoes
• Shorts and T-shirts (nothing that you want to worry about getting worried or dirty, always send more than you feel is necessary)
• Underwear and socks (always send double the amount of days they are away, you can never have too much)
• Sunglasses
• Pajama’s (a mixture of warmer styles and cooler styles depending on the weather)
• Mesh bags for wet clothing

THE SUMMER CAMP TOILETRY BAG:

• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
• Deodorant
• Toothbrush (with a cover) and toothpaste
• A shower caddy/bag to be used to transport their toiletries
• Tampons and/or pads
• Band-Aids (all camps have a first aid kit, but it doesn’t hurt to pack some of your own)
• Any medications they might require during their time there (always inform the camp as well ahead of time)

SUMMER CAMP “BUNK-JUNK” AND ACTIVITIES:

• Card games
• Non-complicated board games (try to avoid things with lots of pieces and go more compact when you can)
• A journal
• Snacks (if the camp allows)
• Pens/pencils
• Disposable camera
• Compact puzzles
• Fidget toys

EXTRA’S TO KEEP IN MIND WHEN PACKING FOR SUMMER CAMP:

• Ensure you send photocopies of any health card’s or any other important documents you think the camp might require
• Use a duffle bag instead of something like a suitcase or trunk for space reasons
• Money in case there are things available to purchase
• Beads and string/yarn (friendship bracelets are all the rage these days)

The last thing you want to think to yourself while sending your child off at camp is did I send enough underwear and socks? We have you covered with this list that covers all of the most needed camp must-haves.

If you’re wondering how to label all of this, check out this list on exactly how and what to label for camp. It’s a must-have breakdown of everything and how to label it.

The post Sleepaway Camp Shoppable Pack List appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Summer camp can sometimes be the hardest to label for because items like swimsuits, towels, flip flops can be tricky items to label effectively. We have a solution for labelling all the little tricky clothing items and accessories that go to summer camp. Because markers and tape won’t cut it for sleepaway camp toughness!

The Sleepaway Camp Label pack is a value pack of all the top-selling labels, 112 labels included, plus 2 tags!  Here is a breakdown of the pack and how to label with them for sleepaway camp. 

The Sleepaway Camp Label Pack:

What it includes:

10 Large Rectangle Labels
24 Small Rectangle Labels
70 Tag Mates Stick-On Clothing Labels
8 Shoe Labels (4 pairs)

How to Label Kids Camp Clothing:

Tee Shirts, shorts, sweaters, pj’s and underwear with care tag. The Tag Mates Clothing Label is perfect for all these items. They work for any clothing with a tag! These little name labels are waterproof and laundry-safe (not that your child will be worried about doing their laundry at camp – but parents can dream big).

-T-shirts
-Shorts
-Sweatshirt
-jackets or raingear
-Sweatpants
-Pj’s
-Swim trunks

The Sleepaway Camp Label Pack includes 70 of these little labels, so you’ll have plenty and can also use them on other smaller items:

-Chargers
-Pens & Pencils
-Sunglasses
-Sleeping bag
-Chapstick

How to label Kids Camp Toiletries:

Most small items like toiletries (toothpaste, toothbrush, hairbrush, etc.) can use a Small Rectangle Label. This way, you know that they won’t be grabbing for any blue toothbrush; they’ll grab the toothbrush with their name on it! Yay, no more germy swaps!

-Toothbrush
-Toothpaste
-Hairbrush
-Sunblock
-Bug spray
-hydrocortisone or other cream bottles

How to Label all your kids summer camp essentials:

Your kids will no doubt be heading to camp with a bag of camp essentials as well as “fun” items to share with bunkmates, special items that make them feel at home.

The ten Large Rectangle Labels (included in the Sleepaway Camp Label Pack) are perfect for these items, we recommend using them on:

-Flashlight or lantern
-Water bottle
-Book
-Journal
-Snack containers
-Clip-on Fan
-Lifejacket
-Shower Caddy
-Tarp

Can you label flip-flops, water shoes, or sandals for summer camp?

The Sleepaway camp label pack includes eight Shoe Labels, enough for four pairs! These round labels are ultra-durable and waterproof – so they’ll stay stuck in water shoes! Don’t worry about your kids wet, sweaty, sandy, feet. The labels will stay stuck even on the dirtiest kids’ feet!

-Running Shoes
-Sandals or flip-flops
-Hiking boots
-Water shoes

Clothing stamp for labeling kids’ clothes without a tag:

Finally, if you’re looking for another great eco-friendly option, Mabel’s Labels also offers a Custom Clothing Stamp. This is not included in the Sleepaway Camp Label pack, but always makes a useful purchase, for camp, school, daycare.
This stamp allows you to create your own custom label using non-toxic ink. Stamp the label on your child’s clothing item, and you’re good to go! This stamp is good for 500 applications, and each application lasts about 40 washes. It’s small and simple and is great for quick, last-minute, or on-the-go labeling!   For sending kids off to camp, this name stamp can be used for:

-Pillowcase
-Bathing suit (as they usually don’t have a care tag)
-Underwear
-Socks

This label pack the stamp and ANY other Mabel’s Labels products always have free standard shipping! Happy labeling, and happy camping! Looking for more camp info? Check out the Mabel’s Labels Camp Hub! 

The post How to Label for Sleepaway Camp appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Labels– Before ANYTHING goes into your bag, make sure it has a name label! This is non-negotiable. Here’s the best option.

TOILETRIES:

Toiletries Caddy– A waterproof caddy for bringing all their items to the showers; it’s ok if it gets wet. And it means they always have everything they need for the shower with them.

Bug Spray– make sure it’s something you’ve used before so your child doesn’t discover an irritation at camp.

Hydrocortisone– or something similar to soothe itchy skin.

Sunblock– Don’t leave home without it, ever. Make sure it’s waterproof (not just water resistant), and make sure your kids know how often to reapply.  One bottle per week of camp.

Toothbrush & toothpaste (and toothbrush cover!)– plus any other toiletries your kids use daily, like shampoo, body wash, and a washcloth.

Hair items– Don’t forget to pack LOTS of hair ties; they will lose them. Also, a detangler might be a good idea if your kids swim a lot.

Other toiletries to consider: Aloe, tissues, afterbite, tampons or pads, hand sanitizer, band-aids

For labelling all your little items, the Mini Labels or Small Rectangle Labels work really well, and you can find them included in the Sleepaway Label Pack.

BUNK ITEMS:

Favorite Pillow and pillowcase

Stuffy or special item– Don’t forget to label these!

Fitted sheet– because summer camp mattresses can be slippery and yuck

Sleeping bag– Make sure it’s appropriate for the nighttime temps in your area.

CLOTHING:

Shoes– Check with your camp to see whether they have a no-open-toed shoe policy and whether they require hiking boots. Pack a comfy pair of sandals (make sure your child has worn them in and knows they’re comfortable) and running shoes. Make sure to use these (you’ll also find them included in the sleepaway pack)

Shower shoes– in case the floor is ick

*If you pack crocs, you can get fun camp-themed charms that kids love!

Water shoes- Great for camps with a lot of water sports. And yes, shoe labels will remain stuck!

Hats– Pack a few. Usually, a bucket hat and a baseball cap.

Underwear and socks– Pack them, then add twice as many and pack those too. You can never have enough. If you are wondering how to label them – this stamp is perfect!

Swimsuit– Check the swimwear guidelines. Also, pack a few! So, they always have a dry one between swims. If your swimwear doesn’t have a label, you can use this Custom Clothing Stamp

Swim goggles– Label them with a mini label at the back plastic adjuster, as labels won’t stick to the silicone band.

Sunglasses– You can label them inside the arm, and pack a few pairs, as sunglasses don’t float!

Towels– A swimming towel or two and a shower towel or two. Many great smaller towels on the market are perfect for camp because they’re so small (the Turkish towels, travel towels etc.). So many towels look alike. Make sure to use your name stamp!

Shorts & tees– The number will depend on how long your kids stay. Don’t send anything expensive or fancy.

Sweatshirts and sweatpants– The evenings can get cool in summer, and sometimes kids just want to be warm and cozy.

Pajama’s– Nothing fancy or hot. Some old comfy sweat shorts and tees are common for most kids.

Specialty items– depending on the type of camp your kids are going to, you may need other items like a life jacket, cleats, or other equipment items or clothing.

Mash bags – Pack (and label) more than one of these. They’re super versatile, perfect for laundry, wet clothing and just a general bag they may need that doesn’t weigh much or take up space. Your sleepaway camp label pack will come with 2 Bag Tags, so you can use them to label these bags, or pick up some extra

Medical needs– The most stressful of all, so let’s get this one out of the way early in the list. If your child has medical considerations, ensure you complete all your forms early. Get photocopies of health cards, prescriptions and /or notes from the doctor. Put these into a page protector and make certain everyone needing a copy has it.

Camps will have a protocol on prescriptions; make sure you’re aware of them and that your child also knows where they will be stored and whom they need to go to.  This may also apply to vitamins and supplements, so make sure you understand the rules and make sure to discuss any concerns with your counsellors.

MISC.

Book– The majority of Summer Camps don’t allow devices, so your kids may want to read a book at night (probably not, but parents can dream).

Flashlight or headlamp– because it’s not camp without one!

Snacks– Check your camp’s snack policy before sending any!

Birthday balloons or items– If your kids (or maybe a camp friend) might have a Summer birthday, this is a fun way to make them feel special.

Pens and notebooks– They may write home! Include pre-stamped envelopes, and this is more likely to happen; it’s an old-school way of keeping in touch. Make sure to send letters or packages back! If you don’t receive letters home, it means they’re probably having too much fun!

Journal- A great time to encourage journalling, especially if they feel a little homesick. Encourage them to write if they feel this way; it may help them feel better.

Reusable water bottle- A non-negotiable item. Pack a few, just in case. Spice them up with these!

Clip-on Fan-They may want to clip it to the bedframe on hot nights.

Pack of cards or Uno- A fun thing to have on rainy days, and they don’t take up much room.

Spending money- your camp may have a tuck shop, so check ahead of time and provide them with some money for treats.

Disposable camera – Let them capture pictures of their friends.

Duffle Bag – While totes or camp trunks are great, some camps may not have storage space in cabins, so make sure to check.  *your bags or trunks MUST be well labelled as they may travel separately from the kids and/or be placed in a cabin ahead of time.

NON-ESSENTIALS THAT YOUR MIGHT WANT:

Pom-poms – because what better way to cheer on friends!

Sticker Books – to share with friends!

Crafts – for friendship bracelets!

Mini basketball hoop – A small one that suctions to a window (always a hit in the boys cabin!)

White pillowcase and markers – Some kids love to get all the bunkmates to sign a pillowcase at the end of camp.

Nightlight, string lights, fun pillows, and bunk décor

Hopefully, this provides a stress-free packing experience before your littles head off to sleepaway camp for their next adventure! If you’re still feeling anxious, here are some good reminders from an experienced camp mom, Julie Cole!

The post Sleepaway Camp Pack List (and fun non-essential bunk junk kids love) appeared first on The Mabelhood.

 1) Recharge

 Relax, take a walk, meditate and do the things you always dream of doing but never have the time or the privacy to do.

 2) Eat what you want 

 Enjoy the chance to cook meals that you love without complaints. Eat the spicy foods, the healthy meals, or the junk food you want without needing to share!

 3) Reconnect with your spouse 

 Go on dates, enjoy the alone time and use this as a time to reconnect with one another. The benefits the break from the kids will give you will do wonders for your relationship. And happy parents have happy kids

 4) Complete tasks always on your list

 Moms always have a to-do list that continuously grows, and we rarely ever check anything off. So use this time to check some things off your list! Finally clean out that closet, read recipes and meal prep freezer meals, paint the walls, rearrange the kitchen cupboards. Make your doctor appointments, get your car serviced, and repot the plants.

 5) Distance makes the heart grow fonder

You will miss your kids. But that’s not always a bad thing. A break will give you time to appreciate all the things about them that you love, but don’t always notice when you’re busy rushing around each day.

 6) Perspective. 

 Having time away from your kids can offer a new perspective. It can help clear your head and make room for revamped schedules and strategies and organization around the house.

 7) A brain break. 

 The mental toll of parenting can be draining. Use this time to focus on your mental health, work out or attend therapy. You’ll feel the difference in your patience levels when the kids return.

 8) Enjoy knowing they’re doing the right thing.

Your kids are getting a break from screen time without you needing to nag! They’re getting fresh air without you needing to encourage it. They’re meeting like-minded kids, getting a good night’s sleep, exercising, and having fun without YOU needing to facilitate it!

9) You will learn to trust your kids. 

 Seeing what they can accomplish when away is eye-opening. When kids are given a chance to grow more independent and learn to rely on themselves, it’s staggering what they can achieve (responsibility with sunscreen, keeping track of their gear- well, THIS HELPS!,  Brushing their hair, etc. Their abilities are far more extraordinary than we give them credit for; their skill set and self-esteem grow when they’re forced to be more independent.

 10) The benefits go beyond the summer. 

Camp is challenging for kids, and they grow a lot over a short period. In addition, they are gaining valuable life skills, from problem-solving to social skills, by being part of a camp community and working together and supporting one another. You will see a difference in your child when they return home, and the benefits far outweigh all of the worries you had before sending them to camp.

To make camp planning a little easier- don’t forget your sleepaway camp labels!

The post Ten Ways Moms Benefit from Sending Their Kids to Camp appeared first on The Mabelhood.

The benefits

Day camps offer a practical solution for working parents, as well as kids who may be prone to boredom at home. Here are a few compelling reasons to register:

Close to home. While some kids crave the adventure and independence of overnight camp, others may prefer a familiar environment where they sleep in their own bed.

More affordable. A Monday-to-Friday day camp typically costs less than a sleep-away camp that involves extra travel and amenities.

High structure. If your child thrives in predictable routines at school, they will likely transition well to the similar format of day camp, with an organized agenda of instructor-led activities, outdoor time, and lunch breaks.

Flexible evenings. With day camp, you can still enjoy your evenings together as a family. If your child plays on a sports team, they won’t have to miss any practices or games.

So many cool options. As you’re filling out registration forms, you may feel envious of all the neat things your child will get to do! If they will be attending multiple camps throughout the summer, you can keep it fresh by choosing a variety of themes and locations.

Specific interests. A week-long day camp lets your child immerse themselves in something they’re truly interested in, whether it’s science, technology, nature, art, music, or sports. An important bonus: over the course of the camp, they will likely meet friends that share the same passion!

Making your choice

There are many factors to consider when choosing a camp, and we’ve already compiled the top 10 considerations for this year. If you’re feeling unsure where to start, here are a few additional tips:

Buddy up. Seek recommendations from other families, especially the parents of your child’s friends. If they have rave reviews of a certain day camp, maybe the kids can sign up together.

Brainstorm. To cast a wide net in your search, think about places that host kids’ activities and birthday parties. Consider dance or gymnastics clubs, theatre groups, craft studios, nature centres, children’s museums and zoos. Check your city’s seasonal activity guide, along with other community locations such as libraries, churches, and community centres. If your child is the sporty type, inquire with your local sport association, aquatic centre, or university athletics program.

Ask questions. If the camp website or brochure doesn’t provide all the details, reach out to inquire about age groupings, number of attendees, leader/participant ratio, and pick-up/drop-off times (including options for later pick-up, if needed).

Getting ready

To assist you in preparing for day camp, we consulted Courtney Didier, Director of Operations, Outdoor Services for YMCA of Three Rivers. “All families receive a list of things to pack to ensure campers are prepared for activities in all types of weather,” she says. She highlights a few key items for your child’s backpack:

• Proper footwear. “Camp is very active, so running shoes are required for safe participation,” Courtney says, adding that sandals and slip-on shoes are only suitable for water play.
• Sunscreen, labelled with the child’s name. “We recommend labelling everything,” Courtney explains, “but sunscreen is the number one item that ends up in the lost and found bin every summer.”
• A reusable water bottle that your child can refill independently.
• A book or other quiet activity in case there is “down time” at the end of the day while waiting to be picked up.
• If relevant, a bathing suit, towel, hat and bug spray.

Pre-camp jitters

“We recognize that it may be a tough decision to send your child off to camp. Especially after two years of being very connected during the pandemic,” Courtney says. “Please know that camp staff members are here to answer any questions you may have- and trust us, we have heard them all!”

It’s natural to for kids (and parents) to feel nervous, especially if they’re camp rookies. “Most of us who work in camp were once campers ourselves,” Courtney notes. “We remember our first day of camp and understand that being dropped off at a new place with new people can be intimidating.”

The good news is, if you’ve done your homework and chosen a reputable camp, your child is in good hands. Courtney points out that YMCA day camp staff are certified in Standard First Aid and CPR, and all swimming and boating activities are supervised by fully certified lifeguards. “Our staff receive extensive training to prepare them to be safe, caring, engaged, and responsive,” she says. “When camp is in full swing, there will be a Site Coordinator or Director available to discuss your child’s individual needs.”

Chances are, your child will settle in and have a fantastic time. In fact, you may want to avoid scheduling a lot for the evenings, as they may be tired from their action-packed day. A kid who’s ready for bed after a day of summertime fun – now that’s a happy camper! 

Make sure to always ask if your Camp has a Fundraising Program. This one allows parents to buy their kids camp name labels, and the camp earns 20% commission!  

Never head off to camp without purchasing your camp labels! You don’t want germy mix-ups and lost items! 

The post Helpful Tips for Day Camp Rookies appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Here is a checklist of the things we think you need to consider when choosing the right summer camp for your kids.   

 1) Financial Decisions

This is often the top reason to select one camp over another. Day camp varies from approximately $25 to $150 a day. Some things that influence the price are the type of camp the location, but it’s also worth inquiring about the price. The following may be included in the price, making the high price tag fit your budget after all. 

 -Is any food is provided 

 -whether a bus service is provided  

 -Is there before and aftercare services if you require a late pick-up?  

 -Are day trip costs included

Depending on where you live, you may have access to YMCA camps, Parks and recreation, or other local camps that may offer subsidies.

2) Your kid’s interests

This is a huge deal. A big of summer camp as a kid is exploring areas that they don’t experience during the school year. There are so many great options these days. It’s a time when the kids who don’t thrive in the classroom can finally find themselves, and the kids who bounce off the walls all year sitting at a desk can finally burn off some energy at soccer camp. 

Everything from music, sports, language, outdoor activities, horse riding, coding, or even camps, especially for kids with medical conditions (diabetic camp, for example), there is truly something for everyone. Your job as a parent is to find the right fit. The right kind of camp for your child is easy to find; a quick google search of camps in your areas will bring you to all your options.

Finding a good fit means that you’ll send your kid to camp after the school year and see a new kid return. Stronger, healthier, happier, and thriving. We encourage you to narrow down the camp to fit the interest of your child, and you’ll reap buckets full of rewards!   

3) Safety and protocols

It is always wise to check any camps your considering for an ACA, OCA, or similarly accredited, depending on where you’re from. ACA’s accreditation This process evaluates the site, food safety, health care, transportation, management, staffing, and program elements such as water safety. These days, covid protocols is also top of mind. Again, this is something to look for and consider as you narrow down your search. In addition, you have every right to reach out to the camp director and ask about other health and safety protocols, the accreditation of their staff, etc. 

 4) The right fit for the family 

Some families find that sleepaway camp is the right fit; perhaps parents work late or travel often. Or maybe parents have more time during the summer and can enjoy family BBQs in the evening. This is a personal decision that only you can make. How will camp fit into the family life? 

 5) Logistics  

No matter how much we’d love to send our kids to the most ideal camp, it isn’t always possible. And you’re not a bad parent if you don’t select the perfect camp for your child; you have a whole family to consider, so drop the guilty feeling.  Make sure you consider: 

•  Camp times- can you make it work with your schedule?
•  Location- do you require public transport, do they offer a bus, do the times work with your schedule for pick up?  
•  Can you carpool with friends or family? 

 6) Multiple kids? You need to consider this.

 If you have more than one child, the camp logistics get a little more difficult if you send them to different camps. You need to consider pick-up times of multiples and all the logistics around scheduling. 

Sometimes, it can be great to send kids to camp at different times. That way, kids at home with parents, friends, or family can also get excellent one-on-one time.   

 7) Schedule 

Check the dates the camp runs and make sure it doesn’t coincide with a family vacation away, cottage time, or grandma’s visit!   

 8) Check the demographics 

Make sure the kids in the camp are of similar age demographic; a good rule of thumb is to age up, so don’t put your child with the grade they’ve just finished, but with the grade, they’re heading into. 

 9) Ask Around 

The best way to get an idea of a camp is to ask around and speak to other parents who have attended, they won’t hold back on any negative reviews, and it’s always a good sign when a child returns year after year. 

 10) Ask Your Child 

Maybe they have different thoughts about camp than you know; perhaps they’ve had their heart set on an overnight camp but have never mentioned it. Or maybe they want to attend with their best friend, or try horse riding?? It would help if you had an open and honest conversation about their desires, expectations, and what’s reasonable for your family. Make sure to involve them in the process! 

If you’re wondering about the overall benefits of camp, click here for 6 Reasons Summer Camp is Totally Worth it 
Don’t forget, before your head off to camp to get yourself organized!

The post How to Choose the Right Summer Camp appeared first on The Mabelhood.

For help finding the right camp, click here

The post 6 Reasons Summer Camp is Totally Worth It appeared first on The Mabelhood.

My newly minted eight-year-old will be going to sleep-away camp for the first time, for two weeks at the end of August. He will be my sixth child to attend sleep-away camp, and I find the same old worries creeping in. I knew I had to prepare myself for kids going to sleep-away camp. So, I’m reminding myself of three things:

He might evolve

This kid is my picky eater. I’m pretty sure he will starve for the entire two weeks. While one side of me is convinced of this, the other side knows that he might just start eating what everyone else is eating and come home a different kid at the dinner table.

This is not about me

He’s only eight. I’m honestly not ready for him to go. But here’s the thing – many years ago when I told the camp director that I was not ready for my oldest child to go to camp, she looked at me and said, “I’m sorry Julie, this is not about you being ready. This is about your child being ready. Don’t make this about you.” OH SNAP! I got schooled!

Even if I’m not ready, I better fake it ‘til I make it.

The last thing my kid needs is an emotional mother holding on to him for my own crazy mama reasons and preventing him from gaining valuable life experiences. So, I will tell him I’m ready for him to go and that although I’ll miss him, I’ll be just fine. Kids don’t need to be at camp worrying about how their mothers are coping without them!

Sending my last little one to camp is a big step for this mama. This is my baby and I’m feeling it. Hard.

What worries do you have being away from your kids, whether it’s camp or even a sleep-over at Grandmas? Has your child had some nights away from you yet?

Looking for more tips to get your little ones ready for camp? Check out The Camp Hub here.

The post Sending My Last Child to Camp: Three Reminders To Myself appeared first on The Mabelhood.