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What Your Kid Needs For A Day At Summer Camp

Day camps offer a wealth of benefits for children. They provide a safe and supervised environment for kids to explore new activities, make friends, and gain independence. Day camps also help children develop crucial social skills, such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. 

Engaging in various sports, arts and crafts, and outdoor activities at day camp encourages physical activity, creativity, and a love for nature. Additionally, day camps can boost self-confidence and resilience in children as they navigate new experiences and overcome challenges. 

Day camps offer a fun and educational environment where children can grow and create lasting memories.

Sending your child off to day camp is an exciting adventure! They will make new friends, learn new skills, and create lasting memories. Ensuring they are well-prepared with the right gear will help make their camp experience enjoyable and stress-free. 

Here’s a comprehensive guide to packing smart for a day at Camp Guilrock or whatever summer day camp your child might be attending. 

About Camp Guilrock

Camp Guilrock is a 210-acre camp located in Reidsville, North Carolina. Camp Guilrock was incorporated in January of 1970 and has been a beautiful retreat ever since. We believe that every summer in a young person's life is a window of opportunity. 

At Camp Guilrock, campers learn how to truly connect with others and build the emotional intelligence to succeed as thriving individuals. At the core of our summer ministry is our Day Camp Program. Every year, our capacity and ability to shepherd elementary students grows.

What To Wear And Pack For A Day At Camp

Getting ready for day camp is a lot like school, except your child will likely spend much of the day outside in the summer heat. In this section, we’re going to discuss how your child should dress and what other clothing items they should bring to camp.

A sturdy, comfortable backpack that your child can carry easily will be necessary to make sure your child is prepared for the day. It should be big enough to hold all their daily essentials but not too bulky. 

A good backpack will help keep their items organized and easily accessible throughout the day. Look for one with multiple compartments and water-resistant material for added durability.

1. Clothing For Fun And Activities

  • T-Shirts: Your kids should wear comfortable and breathable T-shirts. Since day camps often involve physical activities, choose t-shirts made from moisture-wicking materials to keep your child cool and dry. Pack a few extra in case of spills or accidents.
  • Shorts: Lightweight and quick-drying shorts are ideal for staying cool during the warm summer days. Athletic shorts are a great option as they provide comfort and ease of movement. Pack a mix of colors and styles to give your child some variety.
  • Swimsuits: Pack at least one swimsuit for water activities. If the camp has daily water play, consider packing two to allow one to dry while the other is in use. Choose swimsuits that are comfortable and easy for your child to change in and out of.
  • Underwear & Socks: Breathable underwear and comfortable socks are a must. Pack enough underwear and socks for each day, plus a few extras. Accidents and unexpected water activities can necessitate quick changes. Look for moisture-wicking socks to keep your child's feet dry and comfortable.
  • Sweatshirt Or Light Jacket: A sweatshirt or light jacket is essential for cooler mornings (although rare in our area, some mornings can actually be rather chilly). Choose a lightweight, zip-up option that can be easily removed and stored in their backpack when it gets warmer.

2. Footwear For Land And Sea

  • Sturdy and Comfortable Shoes: Your child will need to wear shoes that can handle  different types of terrain and conditions. Sending them with shoes that can get a little dirty is a good idea. 
  • Water Shoes: Water shoes are perfect for water play and protecting feet from rough surfaces. Choose water shoes with a good grip and quick-drying material. They are essential for lake activities, water sports, and exploring rocky shorelines.
  • Flip-Flops: Flip-flops are handy for quick changes and water activities. They are perfect for wearing around the pool or lake and for bathroom trips. Choose a pair with a good grip to prevent slipping on wet surfaces.

3. Personal Care Items For The Day

Here are a few items that your child should probably have in their backpack. 

  • Deodorant: Choose a gentle and effective deodorant to keep your child fresh throughout the day. Opt for products that are free from harsh chemicals and safe for sensitive skin.
  • Sunscreen: Pack sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect against sunburn. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Don't forget lip balm with SPF to protect your lips from the sun.
  • Bug Repellent: Bug repellent is essential for outdoor activities. Choose a repellent that is effective against mosquitoes and ticks. Opt for products that are safe for children and provide long-lasting protection.

3. Staying Hydrated And Energized

It is vital for your child to stay hydrated throughout the day. Dehydration can be dangerous and will certainly make your child feel miserable. 

  • Reusable Water Bottle: A durable water bottle that keeps drinks cold is essential for staying hydrated. Choose a bottle with a leak-proof lid and a capacity that suits your child's needs. Insulated bottles are great for keeping water cool on hot days.
  • Healthy Snacks: Pack nutritious, non-perishable snacks to tide your camper over between meals. Trail mix, granola bars, and dried fruit are all good choices that won't spoil easily. Opt for snacks that provide a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.

4. Books And Journals

  • Books: Quiet time is golden at camp. Send a few of their favorite books for reading during breaks. Choose lightweight paperbacks or ebooks if allowed.
  • Journals: Journaling is a nice way to record camp memories and keep those writing skills sharp. Pack a sturdy journal and a few pens or pencils.

5. Sentimental Items

These aren’t absolute necessities, but having a few treasured items from home can ease the pangs of homesickness. Each camp will have specific guidelines about these items. 

What To Pack For The Week At Camp

Here are a few items that you might pack each day, or they may live in your child’s backpack throughout the week. A few of these may be redundant, but we want to make sure you are as prepared as you can be for day camp. 

Extra Clothing And Footwear For The Week

In addition to daily essentials, pack a few extra items to stay at camp throughout the week:

  • Extra T-Shirts and Shorts: Pack a few extra sets to account for any unexpected spills or changes.
  • Long Pants: A couple of pairs for cooler mornings or rainy days.
  • Sweatshirt or Light Jacket: Extra layers for varying weather conditions.
  • Rain Gear: A lightweight raincoat or poncho for unexpected thunderstorms.
  • Hat and Sunglasses: To protect against the sun during outdoor activities.
  • Extra Sneakers: A second pair of comfortable and supportive sneakers.
  • Water Shoes: An extra pair in case one gets lost or damaged.

Downtime Activities For The Week

  • Additional Art Supplies: Extra sketchbooks and colored pencils for creative activities.
  • Games and Cards: More games to keep your child entertained during downtime.
  • Books & Magazines: Extra reading materials for downtime.
  • Travel Games: Additional travel games are available for comfort and familiarity.
  • Stationery Kit: A more comprehensive stationery kit for writing letters home and thank-you notes for counselors.

What Should I Not Pack For My Child?

While policies vary by camp, items typically prohibited include:

  • Electronics: Phones, tablets, or handheld gaming devices (unless specifically allowed) are usually discouraged to encourage social interaction and outdoor activities.
  • Expensive Jewelry or Clothing: These items can be easily lost or damaged.
  • Food or Drinks That Can Spoil: Avoid packing perishable items that can attract insects or spoil in warm weather.
  • Dangerous Items: Items that could be considered dangerous, such as knives or sharp objects, are not allowed.
  • Personal Sports Equipment: Unless specifically requested by the camp, leave personal sports equipment at home to avoid loss or damage.
  • Large Amounts of Cash: If money is needed for a specific activity, only a small, necessary amount should be sent with your child.
  • Makeup or Cosmetics: These items are not typically needed at camp and can be easily lost or damaged.

Join Us For Day Camp At Camp Guilrock

Preparing for day camp can feel like a huge task, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth and enjoyable process. Remember to choose durable and versatile gear for a happy camper. By packing smart, your little camper will be ready to embrace all that day camp at Camp Guilrock has to offer.

Contact Camp Guilrock Today!

Camp Guilrock is the perfect place for your child to have a memorable and enriching summer experience. With a diverse range of activities and a focus on building social skills, teamwork, and independence, Camp Guilrock offers a safe and supervised environment for kids to explore new adventures and make lasting memories.

Your child will have the opportunity to make new friends, learn new skills, and gain confidence while creating valuable memories that will last a lifetime. At Camp Guilrock, your child's summer will be filled with excitement, growth, and joyful experiences.

Get ready for an amazing summer adventure! Sign your child up for Camp Guilrock today and give them a summer full of excitement, learning, and new friendships. Contact us with any questions you might have, whether it's about what to pack or how much fun your child will have this summer!