Overnight School Trips Preparation Guide For Kids

In every parent’s life, there comes a time when their little one is all ready for his first overnight school trip.

The thought of your child being away from home, eating mysterious camp food, or probably losing at least one sock is enough to make the parents feel nervous.

So, it’s not only stepping out of your comfort zone but also about building independence and teamwork.

According to a study, trips away from home enhance social skills and promote a sense of responsibility in kids. In fact, according to the American Camp Association, 74% of kids stated feeling more confident after participating in an overnight camp experience.

Read below this guide to explore how to help your child prepare for their overnight school trips. 

Here are a few helpful tips to get everything done right for the day.

Packing might seem like the obvious starting point, but often parents fall into overpacking. However, your child doesn’t need 10 t-shirts for a two-night trip! Instead, get just the essentials right.

Kids are good at swapping their hoodies and waterbootles. Therefore, a label with your child’s name can save their favorite sweater from being lost.

Note: Don’t miss out on packing a small comfort item, like their favorite stuffed toy, or a note from home to provide comfort in moments when they need it.

Going away overnight can be a little overwhelming for your child—especially if it’s their first time away from home. Therefore, it's important to talk through any concerns they might have.

Let them know that it’s okay to feel nervous, but instead think of all the fun they’ll have. You can even share your own overnight trip stories to let them know how great the experience can be. In the end, it is important to create a balance between support and giving them space.

Reviewing the itinerary in advance can help your child mentally prepare for what’s to come.

Will there be hiking?

Swimming? Or maybe a talent show or group performance? Who knows.

Knowing what’s planned can take their excitement to the next level. It also gives you both a chance to talk about the schedule and figure out if there’s anything they need to prepare for, such as learning a song for campfire or practicing some football skills.

Another important thing is that your child must know what to do if they feel unwell or if something doesn’t go as planned. You can even talk to your kid’s teachers or camping invigilators and inform them about how to reach out to you in case of emergency.

Packing a simple card with emergency contacts, including your phone number, in their bag is a good idea when it comes to ensuring any safety measures.

Helping your child prepare for an overnight school is not just about getting the packing right or remembering their toothbrush but also about teaching them how to handle independence and get new experiences while away from home. With this helpful guide, you can now learn what exactly you need to do whenever it’s time for an overnight trip for your children.