Morning Drop Off

August 5th, 2012

Morning Drop off

Each morning there is a range of emotions felt during the drop off.  For example, some kids are extremely excited about the day, and can’t wait to get the day going.  They hurry their parents back to their cars, jump into the van, and wait eagerly for us to start.  There are others who are not very happy about being at summer camp and feel sad during the process of separating from their parents.  A lot of tender, love, and care is needed to help that child feel better about the transition and the schedule of the day.  This situation is also very difficult for the parents that may feel guilty about leaving their child upset.  We often get follow up phone calls wondering how their child has adjusted.  Finally, there are some kids who are anxious about the day’s activities, and ask rapid-fire questions or respond by antagonizing others.  Thursday's river day is a great example.  Staff have to work hard to decipher through various behaviors to find the root of the issue.  On river day, finding the right boat or partner has been the biggest obstacle.  No matter what the feelings are toward being at camp, morning drop off is one of the more unpredictable times within summer camp.