MANHATTAN, Kan. – Parents who enjoyed going to summer camp as children may be pleased to learn that camp experiences still can benefit children, said Pat Fultz, Kansas State University Research and Extension 4-H youth development specialist who also serves as a camp coordinator.

"Camps are changing, but so are the children who attend them. Though camps offer more activities and amenities than previous campers may have enjoyed, it’s the camp ‘experience’ – being away from home, getting to know others, and learning how to get along with them – that can provide growth experiences for children," she said.

Natural settings also are appealing; so is the opportunity to explore new interests that can range from assorted crafts to canoeing, photography or geology, Fultz said.

Attending camp may be a natural progression from a child’s involvement in 4-H or other youth or community group. First-time campers also may benefit from trying out a day or weekend camp before enrolling in a week (or multi-week) camp.

Checking out a camp – making a site visit or attending an open house – can be helpful to parents choosing a camp. So can talking with parents and children who have attended the camp previously.

How old should a child be before attending camp?

"Camps vary, but most either set – or recommend – age limits. Many camps target programs for specific ages, while others may plan programs that group children of different ages. There can be advantages and disadvantages to either," the 4-H youth development specialist said.

"Children may choose a mentor or buddy from an older group, but there also may be some older children who would prefer not to be around younger children. That’s why it’s important for parents to check out camp programs: Ask about age-specific programs; number of campers-per-counselor; camp structure, activities and supervision; meal plans; and the availability of first-aid or medical assistance, if it should be needed."

"A child’s age, maturity, and levels of interest and independence also should be considered in the decision-making process," Fultz said.

For example, a child’s readiness or willingness to try a camp may be apparent. They may voice an interest; pressure parents because friends plan to attend; or indicate a desire to explore or develop a new interest at a subject-specific camp that may focus on photography, geology or canoeing.

Other signs of readiness may include a child’s ability to manage self care, like personal grooming; attention span; ability to play with other children and participate as a member of a team; and ability to follow directions and accept responsibility.

Should a child go to a camp with friends?

Again, there can be pluses and minuses. Having a ready-made friend can be comforting, but when friends attend the same camp session, children may not be as likely to take advantage of the opportunity to make new friends, Fultz said.

Will a child need special camp equipment?

Most camps provide equipment (or rental opportunities for needed equipment) for planned activities. Most also provide a detailed list with packing recommendations for parents.

As a seasoned camper, Fultz does not necessarily recommend purchasing new clothes for camp – children often feel more comfortable in well worn items. And, she doesn’t advise parents to send new towels. In fact, she said, "The older, the better. Towels can be slow to dry and often are lost."

Comfortable shoes, a good supply of socks, and an extra pair of shoelaces are a must. So is a toothbrush; toothpaste; jacket or rain poncho, or both; hat; sunscreen; insect repellent; and lip balm.

Disposable cameras can be preferable to more expensive cameras that may get lost or broken (except, perhaps, at photography camp), and such extras as boom boxes, personal CD players, mini-TVs or video games are best left at home. The same is true for cell phones.

"Camps foster independence, self-reliance and personal growth. Children who call family and friends from cell phones often diminish the benefits of the camp experience. If a problem occurs, counselors will call parents," Fultz said.

Camps vary in program opportunities and cost. For more information on 4-H camp, interested persons can contact their local K-State Research and Extension office.