Page 34 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • June 13, 2012 Whether your child is attending a one-week or eightweek camp, preparing and packing can seem like a daunting task. How many clothing items should you bring? Are uniforms required? What can’t you bring? What type of luggage should you use? With a little strategy, organization, and communication with your child’s camp, packing will be a breeze. Things to ask before you start packing. Will I get a camp clothing list? This will be your best source of information for what the camp requires and doesn’t. On lists, you’ll find the number of recommended clothing items, toiletries, and other things to bring for special events, like overnight campouts or themed costume activities. If you haven’t received a clothing list, call the camp or visit their website and see if the clothing list is available for download. What items are not allowed? Every camp is different and many have their own rules for what each camper is allowed. For instance, some don’t allow CD players and electronic games; others don’t allow candy or treats. Do they need uniforms? Many camps try to reduce “competitive dressing” among campers by requiring uniforms. Some uniformed camps require all clothing to include the camp logo; some only require a specific shirt and short color. Be sure to clear up any questions concerning your child’s required attire before your child leaves for camp. What items does the camp provide? Some camps provide sheets, mattress pads, extra blankets, and even towels. Review your clothing list for more information about items the camp provides. Now that you have the items you need to pack, what type of luggage should you use? Here is a list of the most common luggage types and pros and cons of each. Take the anxiety out of packing for camp Duffel bag: Pros: large, sturdy. Cons: Bag may get damaged if shipped; heavy and awkward; child may not be able to carry alone. Trunk: Pros: Best for camps with longer stays; sturdy and does not damage easily if shipped. Cons: Bulky and often heavy; child may not be able to carry alone. Suitcase: Pros: Good for short camp stays; easy to organize clothing, as most have many compartments; easier for a child to carry alone, as most have wheels and retractable handles. Cons: Could damage easily if shipped. Add a nametag to each piece of luggage. Write down lock combinations or make extra keys for locks. Put them in a safe place for your child or consider giving copies to your child’s counselor or camp director. Find out if you can ship luggage directly from your home to camp. Many camps have assigned trucking companies to use, or consider shipping your luggage via another shipping company. Remember these extras. Medications: Find out the camp’s procedures for handling daily medications or refills. Forms: Most camps require a vaccination and health screening form. Find out when you need to send the completed forms to camp. Updated contact information: Has your contact information changed since you registered your child for camp? Call and update the camp director with your new information. Stationery, pre-stamped envelopes, and pens: You don’t want to miss letters from your camper. Send extra stamps, as some camps don’t sell stamps at their camp store. �������� ������� �������������� ���������������� ����������� YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSPAPER ������������ ������������������