Give an old backpack new life.

Empty out your child’s trusty school backpack or dig out an extra one from a previous year. Pre-treat any unsightly spots with stain remover and run it through a cold-water cycle in your washing machine. Hang it outdoors in the sun to dry. Spruce up the zipper pull with a keychain-style accessory or a personalized bag tag. The backpack’s makeover is complete and it’s ready for camp time! Choose eco-friendly lunch gear.

A reusable Bento style lunch box (made of plastic or stainless steel) is a positive step toward a litterless lunch. Send a daily personal message for your day camper with washaway lunch box notes that dissolve in water. Reusable single-serve containers and silicone snack bags are also a great alternative to disposable ones.

Say goodbye to single-use water bottles.

“Water” we waiting for? For the sake of the earth, it’s time to reduce the demand for new plastic. Keep your child hydrated all day with a high-quality reusable water bottle. Prevent germy mix-ups by adding a textured wraparound water bottle label personalized with your child’s name. And, if you’re worried about bacteria, we’ve got tips for cleaning and disinfecting.

Rediscover old-fashioned entertainment.

Your young camper may appreciate having something to do on the drive, at lunch break, during quiet time, or while waiting for pick-up. With this in mind, scour your game cupboard, bookshelf and toy bin for “unplugged” options such as:

• Art supplies. Sort through your existing collection of pens, crayons, markers and coloring pencils (this is a great hands-on project for kids!). Discard the unusable or broken ones, and fill a pencil case with the rest. Grab a past school notebook and remove any used pages to get a fresh start. Slip these into your child’s bag for drawing, writing letters or playing or pen-and-paper games with fellow campers.
• Travel games, magnet sets, fidget toys or a deck of cards
• Activity books, word puzzles, comic books or Mad Libs
• A long-forgotten stuffed animal – refresh it with a wash and dry cycle (inside a tied pillowcase) and your child will have a familiar friend for the car ride.

Seek out gently used gear.

This is especially wise if your child is registered for a camp where they’ll be trying a new sport or activity. Look for gently used sports equipment and footwear in online classifieds, at thrift stores, or through the local sport association. Also consider borrowing camp essentials like a sleeping bag or rain gear from your personal network of cousins, friends and neighbors.

Reuse products that are still within their shelf life.

Check your cabinets and assess your existing stock of kid-friendly sunscreen, bug spray and after-bite lotion. If it’s still ahead of its expiry date, squeeze out every last ounce before purchasing a new one.

Avoid over-buying.

Check the camp website or ask in advance if there is a camp supply list, so you know exactly what your child will need. For sleep-away camp, you can also use our handy checklist as a starting point.

By adopting an eco-friendly approach to camp gear, you’ll be helping both the planet and your budget. Repurposing existing items reduces landfill waste and saves money (that you’ll likely need for camp fees). Also, labeling everything reduces the chances of lost items, which means you won’t have to purchase new ones to replace them. So, be creative and apply “the 3 R’s” wherever you can!

The post 7 Eco-Friendly Ways to Prepare for Summer Camp appeared first on The Mabelhood.

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.

With everything coming back and forth each day, labeling your kids’ stuff is crucial for keeping everything organized and ensuring that their belongings don’t get lost or misplaced. Here’s a quick guide to the easiest way to label your kids’ stuff for Day Camp.

The Day Camp Label Pack

This value pack of labels is the simplest way to make sure you have all your items clearly labelled for camp; it includes everything you’ll need to cover all the items that come back and forth each day. And when they’re labeled – you know they’re coming home again!

What’s Included in the Day Camp Label Pack

16 Small Rectangle Labels
21 Tag Mates
2 Shoe Labels (1 pair)
2 Bag Tags

What to use your Bag Tags for?

This label pack includes 2 bag tags, perfect for sticking on your backpack and lunch bag. This will ensure that your kid can easily spot their bag among the pile of others and make sure that the lunch box or bag they pick up matches their labeled bag. It makes it super easy for kids to spot their stuff!

How do I label lunch box items and water bottles?

The small rectangle labels are among our most versatile—that’s why they are included in all our combos, including the Day Camp label Pack! (Plus, they are always a top-seller on their own, too!).

These little labels are great for snack containers and water bottles—plus, they are small enough that you can easily label the lid, too! They also work well for sunscreen bottles—they fit perfectly on the lid for easy visibility.

How do I label kids’ sunglasses for camp?

The small rectangle labels (included in the Day Camp Label Pack) are perfect for labeling the arm of sunglasses. Sunglasses can be expensive, and it’s far easier to slap on a little label than to make costly repurchases! 

How to label kids’ clothing?

Tag Mates! The Day Camp Label Pack includes 21 of these, and they’re simply the best! These small, waterproof, laundry-safe labels are peel-and-stick labels that adhere to the care tag of your child’s clothing. Wait 24 hours before washing, and these little labels will outlive the clothing they are stuck to!  Yes, even the clothing that endures rough and tumble camp days!

How to label shoes for day camp

The shoe labels are simple and straight forward little labels, just stick them inside your kids’ shoes, and they will stay stuck—even with wet feet and sweaty, dirty, sandy feet!

Labeling your kids’ stuff for day camp is an important step in keeping everything organized and making sure that their belongings don’t get lost or mixed up with others. Camp can be SO expensive, and replacing lost clothing, shoes, or water bottles can be very costly. It’s far easier to use this peel-and-stick label pack that has everything you need. Plus, there is a wide variety of icons to suit your kid’s interests—or no icon at all!

Plus, a wide variety of color palettes available means your kids’ labels will be distinctive and easy for them to keep track of.

This label pack will have everything you need, but if you are looking for something more, this name stamp is a top choice of camp parents!

The Custom Clothing Stamp

This stamp is perfect for tagless clothing; it lasts up to 500 applications and each application lasts up to 40 washes (you camp kids will have worn out their clothes by then!). It’s the top choice because it’s one press on the clothing item, and bam, you’re done! It’s a great choice for summer camp season because many clothes may be tagless (socks, swimsuits, towels etc.)

The post How to Label for Day Camp 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.

How to find day camp options in your area

Start with an online search where you type in “[your city] kids day camps.” Begin researching as early as possible, as popular camps may sell out quickly.

Instead of settling for the same old camp as last year, investigate camps that are hosted by:

• Your city or municipality
• A nearby university or college
• The local community center, public library, or YMCA
• Kids’ activity program providers such as dance, gymnastics, martial arts, theatre, art, or computer coding
• Birthday party businesses, such as indoor trampolining, pottery painting or LEGO building
• Common field trip destinations, such as children’s museums, zoos or nature centers
• Youth sports associations, including team sports, individual sports, and aquatics

You can also collect ideas and recommendations the old-fashioned way — by asking around to friends, relatives, neighbors, and fellow parents at your child’s school or activities.

If you have your eye on a specific camp but registration isn’t open yet, add the date to your calendar or follow their social media feed for updates.

Choosing the right day camp for your child

There are many factors to consider when selecting a camp, including:

• Set a target budget and stay within it as much as possible. If your child has their heart set on a particular camp one week, you may have to select a more reasonably priced option another week.
• What are the travel and logistics involved? Is it close to home, or on your way to work? Is it easy to get in and out, with free parking?
• Each camp will have different drop-off and pick-up times, so check carefully to see how these align with your schedule. If needed, inquire if there is additional supervision available at the start or end of the day.
• Who is leading the camp, and what are their credentials? Do the on-site staff have First Aid and CPR training? What is the ratio of leaders to participants?
• It’s a wonderful bonus if a camp’s theme connects to something your child already loves, such as science, nature, performing arts, or technology.
• Does the camp require any specific equipment, clothing, or footwear? For example, a baseball camp might expect the child to bring their own glove and bat.
• Skill level. Is any prior experience required? If the camp activity (for example, horseback riding) is something brand-new for your child, make sure it is truly a beginner program, so they won’t be the only rookie in the group.
• Age groupings. Especially in sport and activity camps, it’s preferable to have age-limited groups (ages 5-6, ages 7-8, etc.). An “all ages” camp could be tiresome for a 12-year-old who will be surrounded by little kids all day.
• Physical demands. If your child is enrolled in a competitive sports program and has games or practices in the evening, it may not be practical to put them in a highly active camp where they are running around outdoors all day and are exhausted by 3:00 PM. In this case, a more sedentary indoor camp might help conserve their energy.

Day Camp registration tips

Here are a few extra suggestions as you navigate the registration process:

• Sign up with a friend. Reach out to the parents of your child’s closest pal and see if they want to register for the same camp. Benefit #1: added excitement for your child to be heading to camp with a buddy. Benefit #2: you and the other parent may be able to share the driving duties.
• Do your homework. Take the time to carefully read all the information on the camp website, including cancellation policies. If you have further questions or want to discuss special considerations for your child, contact the camp director by phone or e-mail. They want your business and will be happy to provide answers.
• Trust your instincts. It is fine to ask for your child’s input about the camps they’d like to attend, but you need to make the final decisions based on the many factors above. Your child could beg for a certain camp now, but have moved on to a different hobby or interest by the summer.
• Label everything.Part of camp preparation is making sure you have enough name labels on hand, so your child’s belongings aren’t mixed up or left behind. The Mabel’s Labels Day Camp Label Pack has two bag tags and 39 personalized labels in assorted sizes, to keep everything organized.
  

The advance work you do now on camp registration will help ensure that your child has a summer filled with learning opportunities, new friends, and fun experiences. Good luck and have a great camp season!

The post Day Camp Registration Tips appeared first on The Mabelhood.

If you have plans to send your kids to camp this summer, you can be sure they’ll spend their days swimming, making new friends, playing sports, learning new games, exploring nature, singing songs, laughing, and making memories to last a lifetime. That’s why packing lunches for day camp that will fuel them for endless days of fun is so important.

Need some tips on how to pack a lunch for day camp that they’ll love? We’ve got ‘em!

Keep them on their toes

Camp isn’t like school. School lunches are filled with food to fuel their brain to help them learn and work hard. Camp lunches should be filled with food to fuel their bodies to help them run and play hard! So, keep them on their toes all summer by changing up their lunch a bit. Think an extra juice box, fruits that help hydrate them, and extra protein.

Summer Camp is a time to have fun, so it’s always most important to ensure they eat (anything!). They need fuel to keep going all day in the sun – so maybe add a treat or two!

Keep it cool

Ice packs are your best friend when it comes to packing camp lunches. Remember that their lunch could be left outside in the summer heat for most of the day. It’s a good idea to find out from your camp where lunches will be stored, as this will impact how and what you pack.

If you use one ice pack for school lunches, you’ll likely need an extra one for camp. Also, don’t pack anything that will melt or spoil if those ice packs don’t hold up. No kid wants a smushed banana. Make sure to toss any food that may have sat out too long; it’s not worth the risk.

If lunch is being left outside, make sure your items are shelf-stable, like nut butters, apples, bananas etc.

If your kids are a little nervous about attending camp, send some of these Washaway Lunch Box Notes labels in their lunchbox to add a special note to make them feel better.

Keep it in season.

Summer is full of amazing fruits & veggies kids love to snack on. Throughout the summer months, different produce comes into season, and you can change it up based on what’s available. June & July are great for strawberries, July is perfect for raspberries, and watermelon season kicks off in August!  If you’re looking for a weekend activity, you can take them to pick their own!

Here are a few ideas to add to the lunch box:

-Snap peas and hummus
-Strawberries and yogurt (sprinkle in some chocolate chips for fun!)
-Cherry tomatoes & cheese skewer
-Celery or apple slices with wow butter

Keep it simple

Camp lunches don’t need to be anything fancy. You know what your child will eat, and keeping things simple is usually the best way to go. I would rather pack my child a lunch filled with things I know he likes than pack a bunch of things I know he won’t eat. We want our kids to eat and fuel themselves – especially when they’re out there being active all day in the heat.

The most important thing is that they eat; if this means apple pouches and crackers, so be it!

Keep them hydrated

Water! Lots and lots of water! Send them with a refillable water bottle that they can refill throughout the day. Make sure to label their water bottle, as they all look similar!

Kids love these Water Bottle Bands, which avoid germy mix-ups and make their bottle special!

Summer camp is such a great experience for kids, and we hope yours love it and come home each day full of dirt, stories, smiles…and memories!

And of course, we hope they come home with all their own stuff – don’t forget your Day Camp Label Pack!

If you’re a seasoned pro at packing camp lunches, we’d love to hear from you! Leave your tips for other parents in the comments below so we can all have happy campers!

Here are some additional lunch ideas and recipes that your kids may love!

The post How to Pack a Lunch for Day Camp appeared first on The Mabelhood.

Before you go

Limit the distance.
Don’t venture too far on the first trip. If you keep your travel time reasonable, it will be easier to head home if there is bad weather or someone becomes sick or injured. Search for a nearby location with convenient amenities and family-friendly features like a beach or playground.

Talk about it. Since this will be a new experience for some (or all) family members, chat about what to expect. Camping website TheCampCorner suggests talking about things that will be the same (spending time together and eating meals as a family) and things that will be different (sleeping in a tent or trailer and cooking food over a fire). If you have an only child, consider inviting a friend or cousin for company.

Set parameters for screen time. If one of your camping goals is to “unplug” from your devices for a few days, make this clear in advance. Explain to your kids why it will be valuable to connect to nature (instead of apps) for a few days. Or, maybe you have a specific vision for technology use (for example, during the drive, to keep little ones occupied during set-up and tear-down, or to take photos and videos). Whatever your plans, communicate them openly so kids know what to expect.

Plan group activities. Ask the kids to Google campfire stories, songs and games for around the fire.  If you’re a musical type who is bringing a guitar, throw in some simple background instruments, like shakers, harmonicas and kazoos. You can also re-connect as a family with an old-school deck of cards or a travel board game.

Build the menu. Ask the kids for input, and include some food items you wouldn’t typically have at home (my kids go bonkers for those mini individual boxes of “treat” cereal). Plan simple, wholesome meals you know everyone will like, and have a few extra ideas in reserve. Bonus mealtime tip: if you have access to a mesh canopy tent or picnic shelter, they provide welcome protection from the elements (and pesky insects) while eating.

Pack practical clothes. When camping, function takes priority over fashion. Pack durable, versatile items that can be worn in layers. Everything should be easily washable, since it will likely end up full of sand and smelling like campfire smoke. In case of rain, make sure everyone has a water-resistant jacket, splash pants and rubber boots.

Bring “quiet time” supplies. There will be moments where everyone needs to rest or regroup, so each child should have a small backpack with a few individual activities. Give older kids the responsibility of prepping this on their own. Pre-check the bags and slip in a little surprise to be discovered later, like a word search, sticker book, comic, drawing pad, or package of sports cards.

Choose comfort objects carefully. It’s a classic packing dilemma: do you bring your child’s favourite toy or stuffed animal, since they claim they can’t function without it… or does that set up the potentially disastrous outcome of a treasured item being lost or damaged? One alternative is to identify a special “camping stuffy” for the trip — possibly a secondary one from their collection, or a “new” one from a thrift store. You can get extra creative and select an animal that is part of the local wildlife, like a moose, raccoon, or fox.

Get kid-specific gear. You may need a wearable carrier for your baby, a rugged stroller for your toddler (which can double as a high chair) or a kid-sized camp chair for your preschooler. You’ll also want to travel with your child’s medications, epi-pens or other health accessories.

Make a list. And check it twice, so nothing is forgotten or left behind. To guide you through the process, consult this comprehensive packing checklist from the experts at Mountain Equipment Company.

During

Put safety first. A fully stocked first aid kit is a must. At your campsite, be diligent about basic fire safety procedures, like these ones from Smokey the Bear. If boating or swimming are in your plans, wear lifejackets and observe the posted swimming guidelines. Store all sharp objects (such as axes, knives and fishing tackle) in securely fastened containers, and don’t leave them anywhere children can reach them.

Share the chores. Give kids age-appropriate roles to build their confidence. They can pitch in with jobs like zipping the tent entrance, setting up sleeping bags, and putting clean dishes in the picnic basket.

Stay organized. Designate a specific storage spot for important items like electronics or flashlights, using a container or hanging drawstring bag. For multiple items belonging to different family members (such as water bottles or headlamps), add name labels to avoid mix-ups.

Keep hands clean. An experienced camping friend told me: “You can never have too many hand wipes.” Set up an easily accessible “hygiene station” with a container of single-use wipes or a pump bottle of hand sanitizer. You can also use a small basin of water with soap and a quick-dry towel (a marvellous camping invention).

Explore and play. Camping is all about new experiences, so encourage everyone to keep an open mind. As it suggests in this list of family-friendly camping activities, let your kids tap into their creative side and discover that a stick is so much more than “just a stick.”

Maintain your sanity. In any new endeavor — including camping — there can be moments of unexpected stress. Have a pre-set signal with your spouse or partner, to be used when either one of you is feeling overwhelmed and needs a few minutes of privacy to breathe deeply and regroup. It might sound like an unnecessary measure, but it can be useful in the moment when you encounter a frustrating roadblock or glitch.

Reduce the pressure. You don’t have to do everything or see everything on the first trip. Customize the daily schedule (or non-schedule) to suit your family’s needs, resources, and energy levels. In the end, it’s about quality, not quantity.

Document the experience. Start an old-fashioned journal of stories, funny moments, bloopers, and quotable quotes. Or, for a more high-tech option, have your tween record a video diary or take pictures to be made into a slide show with music.

After

Shop smart. Take inventory of the gear you used and make a mental “wish list” of items to be added or upgraded. Then, watch for sales at the end of the season, so you can be opportunistic and purchase high quality equipment at a lower price.

De-brief. A few days after your return, have a “post-camping” chat at a family meal. Gather feedback from everyone, including the highlights and low-lights. Take notes of the things you learned and jot down some reminders and ideas for “next time.” In the end, that’s the goal: for the first camping trip to go well, so the family will be keen to do a second one.

Good luck, stay calm, and camp on!

The post 20 Tips for First-Time Camping Families 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.