It’s normal to feel a whirlwind of emotions the first time sending your child to summer camp. As a parent, you’re likely balancing the excitement of giving them an adventure with a few questions: Will they make friends? What if they get homesick? Did I pack enough socks?
At PGL, we’ve been welcoming young adventurers since 1957, and we know exactly what goes through a parent’s mind during that first drop-off. This guide is designed to help you navigate a first-time summer camp experience, from the initial booking to the moment they come home with a bag full of dirty laundry and a ton of memories.
Is Your Child Ready for Summer Camp?
There is no perfect age for a first adventure, which is why summer camps in the UK cater to a wide range of developmental stages. Most children start their journey between the ages of 8 and 16.
If your child has successfully stayed at a friend’s house for a sleepover or handled a school residential trip, they are likely ready for the ‘big one.’ Even if they are naturally shy, a summer camp for kids is often the very place where they find their voice. At PGL, we group children by age, with camps for 8-11s, 11-13s and 13-16s, ensuring they are surrounded by peers at a similar stage of independence.
Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success
The key to a successful camping experience is preparation. When children know what to expect, their uncertainty disappears, letting their natural excitement take over.
1. Talk About the Adventure
Browse our list of activities together. Whether it’s the giant swing, canoeing, or archery, getting them excited about the fun new experiences they’ll have helps shift the focus away from leaving home.
2. Practice Independence
In the weeks leading up to camp, encourage your child to practice basic tasks such as making their bed, organising their own clothes, and managing their shower routine. This builds the ‘I can do it’ attitude that is so vital at camp.
3. The Packing List
A common mistake is packing brand-new clothes. Summer camps for kids are likely to involve mud and water thanks to plenty of outdoor activities.
- Old Clothes: Pack items you don’t mind getting dirty.
- Label Everything: From socks to suncream, name labels are a lifesaver.
- Footwear: Bring two pairs of trainers – one for getting wet and a pair of dry shoes to wear for evening activities.
- The Comfort Item: A small teddy or a familiar pillowcase can make a world of difference during the first night away.
We will provide you with a full packing list upon booking a Kids Camp.
Safety and Trust: Your Peace of Mind
We know that choosing a summer camp is a big decision. After all, you’re entrusting us with what’s most important to you, so it’s only natural to want complete confidence that your child is in safe, experienced hands.
- Ofsted Registered: Our English centres are Ofsted registered, ensuring we meet high standards of care and safety.
- Expert Supervision: Our teams are DBS-checked and undergo rigorous training. We maintain high staff-to-child ratios, so there is always a friendly face nearby.
- 24/7 Care: From the moment they arrive to the final goodbye, our Group Leaders are there to guide them through the daily routine and offer support.
- History and Expertise: With over 65 years of experience and a B Corp certification, PGL is a name trusted by millions of families.
- Mumsnet Rated: Recommended by real parents on Mumsnet, giving you authentic insight and complete peace of mind.
Handling Homesickness
Homesickness is a completely natural part of the first-time summer camp experience. In fact, it’s often a sign that a child has a warm, loving home to miss!
Our instructors are experts at spotting the signs early. Usually, a quick distraction, like a high-energy team game or a go on the zip wire, is all it takes. We find that once children settle into the rhythm of camp life, the feelings of missing home are quickly replaced by the thrill of their accomplishments and adventure.
Expert Tip: While it may feel reassuring, promising to bring them home early if they’re unhappy can sometimes make settling in more difficult. Instead, encourage them to give everything a try and tell them you can’t wait to hear about all the fun they’ve had when they get back.
Choosing the Right Camp for Your Child
There’s something for every child at PGL! Depending on your child’s interests, you might opt to send them to one of the following:
- Multi-Activity Camps: A taste of everything from climbing to raft building.
- Specialist Camps: Focused 7 night breaks on specific passions like horse riding, cooking, or watersports.
Check out our comprehensive guide for more insight into how to choose the best summer camp for your child.
Ready to Start the Adventure?
Sending your child to a summer camp for kids is one of the greatest gifts of independence you can give them. They’ll return with more than just a certificate; they’ll have new friends, newfound confidence, and a sense of achievement that stays with them long after the summer sun sets.
Explore our UK summer camp locations and speak to our friendly team to make their summer one they won’t forget.
