‘Prince Charles syndrome’ and other mistakes when choosing children’s summer camp

Getting summer camp right is not an easy task. It has to be an activity that interests the child, that he or she is comfortable with, accustomed to sleeping away from home, that is safe, instructive and entertaining… Many factors to take into account. These are the main mistakes when approaching which camp to sign up for.

Children have to ‘harden’. Pressuring or imposing on a child to go to camps is not the most advisable option. It works best to involve you in choosing the camp as much as possible. Consult the website, show her the activities, see photos… In this way you can assess her reaction and motivation.

Prince Charles syndrome. It refers to the fact of thinking that the child or adolescent is never ready. Quite the opposite of the previous one. You should think the other way around. Children by default are prepared to relate and adapt and camp helps them. You only need a minimum age and a certain autonomy to function well.

Going with siblings or cousins, a double-edged sword. It is a good idea to explain to them that they are old enough to go to camps and interact with other children, as well as with their family and friends. Once there, everyone will make their friends and experience the camp in their own way, which is ideal.

Be careful if there has been a traumatic situation at home. A sick grandmother, a separation… Sending a child to camp or out of the country in complicated circumstances is usually not a good idea, especially if she is a teenager. They are more worried about the situation at home than enjoying themselves.

Parents and the empty nest. Are you really prepared for your children to spend so much time away from home? Many times this situation is not even contemplated, but we must be aware to face the emptiness that remains in a house when the children are not there.