Displaying items by tag: parents meet camp directors
OPEN HOUSE May 5th, 2024 / Oak Brook, Il,
Join us for the Swift Nature Camp Meet & Greet event at Fullersburg Woods, 3609 Spring Rd. Oak Brook, IL, on May 5th at 1pm! This event is a wonderful opportunity for families to connect with our friendly staff and owners, ask any questions they may have about camp, and learn more about the exciting adventures awaiting campers at Swift Nature Camp. Whether you're new to camp or still exploring your options for the summer, our Meet & Greet is the perfect way to discover why Swift Nature Camp is the ideal choice for your child. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to find the perfect summer camp experience for your family!
Please come
Lonnie & Jeff
630-654-6036
As the camp director of Swift Nature Camp, I'm familiar with homesickness in campers. I often see this as the buses pulled up to take the kids away to overnight camp, I couldn't help but notice the mix of emotions on display. The younger children seemed apprehensive about being separated from their parents, pets, and electronic devices, while the older generation appeared to be experiencing a mixture of love and anxiety. Yet new to me, is the increased feeling of "kidsickness" that many parents experience when their children go away to camp. The pandemic is one of the reasons these feelings have become so intense. We parents got used to our kids being with us 24/7.
Yet, there are parents who managed to keep their emotions in check and do not try to stow away on the bus. Sending kids away to camp can be difficult, but it's worth it when you see the transformation that takes place. Kids grow the most when they're asleep, and the same is true at camp. They are transported to a different realm, and a change in expectations helps them mature quickly. Eventhough, I own Swift Nature Camp, I am also a parent and I have seen the power of camp in 1000 of kids, so much so, that our child went to a different camp, because no kids want their parent to be the camp director.
We parents at home tend to intervene when our kids encounter problems. But at camp, they become more resourceful because no one else is going to make their bed or solve their problems. This independence helps them develop new habits and skills that they can apply in their daily lives. They also become more resilient when they experience low moments and are forced to work through them on their own.
Camp also offers kids a chance to re-invent themselves. Children who were unpopular or bullied at school get a fresh start at camp and can make friends and find new self-esteem. This experience can be life-changing, and some kids even go on to work at camps as adults, eager to give back what they received as campers.
While camp cannot solve all emotional issues, it can be a valuable solution for most. With the prevalence of mental health problems increasing in today's world, camp offers a secure and encouraging space for children to develop self-assurance and acquire essential life skills. As a result, upon their return, both younger and older campers may experience a mix of happiness and nostalgia, or "campsickness."
Parents, I know you are anxious, it will be OK. You can anticipate a reduction in your own "kidsickness" when you witness your camper's joy in their accomplishments and learn to enjoy your newfound free time. You may even look forward to the next summer with eagerness. To learn more about Sleep-away Summer Camp
Sending your child to overnight summer camp can be a daunting experience, especially if it's their first time away from home. It's understandable for parents to have fears and anxieties when it comes to sending their children to overnight summer camp. "The idea of being separated from your child and entrusting their well-being to someone else can be overwhelming. However, it's important to recognize that these fears and anxieties are normal and to take steps to address them" says Lonnie of Swift Nature Camp
-
Research the camp: One of the best ways to reduce fears about sending your child to summer camp is to do your research and choose a reputable camp with a strong track record. Look for a camp that has a strong emphasis on safety, with well-trained staff and thorough emergency procedures in place. Always best to call the Directors and talk directly to them.
-
Prepare your child: Help your child prepare for camp by talking to them about what to expect and packing all the necessary items. You can also encourage your child to make a list of activities or goals they would like to accomplish at camp.
-
Communicate with the camp staff: Establish a line of communication with the camp staff, so you can stay informed about your child's experience and address any concerns that may arise.
-
Set up communication with your child: Many camps offer options for parents to stay in touch with their children, such as phone calls or letters. Set up a communication plan with your child before they leave for camp, so you both know how to stay in touch.
-
Encourage independence: Summer camp is a great opportunity for your child to develop independence and self-reliance. Encourage your child to try new things and make their own decisions while they are at camp.
-
Talk to your child about homesickness: It's common for children to experience homesickness when they are away from home. Talk to your child about homesickness and reassure them that it's a normal feeling. Encourage them to express their feelings and remind them that the camp staff is there to support them.
-
Set realistic expectations: It's important to have realistic expectations about your child's experience at camp. While it can be an exciting and enriching experience, it may not be perfect. Remind yourself that your child will be learning and growing, and that challenges are a natural part of this process.
-
Trust the camp staff: The camp staff is there to support your child and ensure their well-being. Trust that they are competent and capable of handling any issues that may arise.
Lastly:Find something that you will accomplish while your child is at camp. This is your time to do something you have not done in a while: paint, play music, relax and just have fun. Your child will be OK
Sending your child to overnight summer camp can be a challenging and emotional experience, but it can also be an incredibly rewarding one. By doing your research, preparing your child, and communicating with the camp staff, you can reduce your fears and help your child have a positive and enriching experience.
Want to know more talk to Jeff & Lonnie at Swift Nature Camp
Parents & Campers,- When selecting a summer camp it is import that you pick the right summer camp for you. Sure all camps have fancy summer camp websites, but often you may have particular questions you you want to ask in person, Summer Camp Opportunity Fairs (Camp Expos) offer just such an chance. Below is a list camp fairs we will be attending in Wisconsin and Illinois. . So f you want to learn more about camp come see us or if you are an alumni please stop by and say "HI". We are always happy to talk about camp.
-
SUMMER CAMP EXPO- SUMMER CAMP FAIR
PLACES TO FIND SWIFT NATURE CAMP THIS SPRING
FEBRUARY 7th,
Summer Recreation Open House, York Community High School, Elmhurst, IL, 6pm to 8pm
- FEBRUARY 13th,
Fox Vally Summer Activities Fair, Wredling Middle School, 1200 Dunham Rd., St. Charles, IL, 6pm to 8pm - FEBRUARY 25th,
CampExpo at Sunset Ridge School 525 Sunset Ridge Northfield Il. 10am to 2pm - FEBRUARY 25th,
Minnesota Parent Camp Fair, Como Zoo & Conservatory, St. Paul, MN, 10am to 2pm (will not attend but will have brochures there) - MARCH 6th,
Stratford Middle School Summer Activities Fair, Stratford Middle School, Bloomingdale, IL, 6pm-8pm - MARCH 9th,
District 181 Summer Camp Expo, Clarendon Hills Prospect School, 100 N. Prospect Ave., Clarendon Hills, IL, 6pm-8:30pm - MARCH 13th,
STAGE 203 Summer Activities Fair, Kennedy Junior High School, Lisle, IL, 6pm to 8pm - MARCH 21st,
Indian Prairie Summer Activities Fair, Still Middles School, 787 Meadowridge Dr., Aurora, IL, 6pm to 8pm
