5 Things Parents Should Include When Writing Letters to Campers
If you have a child who is attending summer camp this summer, you may be wondering whether you should send them mail and what to include in your letters. First, you should know that many camps allow you to send pre-written letters to be delivered to your child each day. Second, e-mail can often be sent to camp and delivered during daily mail call. If you are at a loss for what to include, consider the following things.
1. Happy Details About Your Life
Let your child know what is going on at home, but keep your tone happy. Skip bad news and concentrate on amusing stories.
2. Something to Look Forward to When Your Camper Returns
Remind your child that when they come home you will be going on vacation together or they will be attending a day camp in your neighborhood. This can make saying goodbye to camp at the end of the session easier for your child.
3. A Handwritten Note
While e-mails allow you to update your child every day, it can be more comforting for your child to receive a handwritten note from you. You can also include a little drawing or cartoon in your note. Your child will appreciate the personal touch.
4. Questions About Camp
You should write your camp letters as if your child will respond to them. Ask specific questions about activities your child was looking forward to before they left or your child's new friends. This will help your child concentrate on the positive aspects of camp and avoid homesickness.
5. A Care Package
Along with your letters or e-mails, you should consider sending a care package to your child. Look up what items are allowed on your camp website, as many camps no longer allow food items in care packages, and then send some fun toys that your child can share with their new friends.
If you will be mailing your letters, you should keep in mind that packages and letters can take several days to get to camp. If your child is attending a short session, you may want to mail your letters before your child actually leaves.
