By Dr. Elizabeth Linder, Grace Cottage Pediatrician
as originally appeared in the Brattleboro Reformer’s Graceful Health series, May 6, 2016
Sleeping bag? Check. Bathing suit? Check. Sunscreen? Check. T-shirts and jeans? Check. What else do you need to be ready for your kids’ summer camp? Whether they are headed to day camp or away camp, here are some tips to make sure they stay safe and healthy.
Many camps require a recent physical exam, within the past 1-2 years. This is a good opportunity to connect with your healthcare provider, review any health issues, and discuss what to expect health-wise in the upcoming 1-2 years. In addition, your campers’ vaccination record can be reviewed and updated. Many camps require vaccinations to be current for the benefit of your own camper as well as the other campers and staff.
If your child has a medical condition (such as asthma, diabetes, ADHD, food or environmental allergies), or on regular medications, camp physical forms are an important way for healthcare providers from home and camp to communicate. We want to optimize your child’s camp experience, allowing them to participate as fully as possible and maintain good control of any medical conditions. We will carefully review any symptoms and treatment plans so the camp staff can be prepared.
To facilitate a positive camp transition, have a discussion with your child about their expectations and your expectations. Will you be able to communicate or not? And if so, how often and what should you say? If you let them know how sad and lonely you are at home without them, it may make them feel guilty and lonely too. Likewise, if you tell them about all the great adventures (Six Flags! Disney! Homemade ice cream! Grace Cottage Fair Day!) you are having without them, it may make them feel like they are missing out.
Getting homesick is normal, but can get better with time and support from camp staff. And paying attention to staff and following directions are key enjoying the full camp experience.
Don’t forget the bug spray, sunscreen, and tick checks. No one wants to sunburned and covered in bites on their first day! And finally, have a great time!
Dr. Elizabeth Linder has been Grace Cottage Family Health’s pediatrician since 1997. A graduate of Pomona College and of the University of Vermont School of Medicine, Dr. Linder completed her residency in pediatrics at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque.
