School is over and your child decides they DO actually want to go to Jewish overnight camp. It is still possible in 10 steps (or less)!

It wasn’t like you hadn’t been asking, but, seemingly out of the blue, your kid wants to go. It might be because their friends are going or they want to get away from their sibling(s) or because they now realize that you are not going to let them stare at screens 20 hours per day until September.

Don’t panic! It’s still possible to find a space at some camps and some money to help you pay the bill.

What should you do first? CALL US at One Happy Camper NJ – we’ll guide you step-by-step – 973.929.2970 or Tracy@OneHappyCamperNJ.org. Here are the key steps:

 

  1. Choose a camp. Check if there’s space. (We’ll help with that!) Many camps still have space for mini/intro sessions, as well as second sessions.
  2. If there’s space, register.
  3. Check this website to see if your family is eligible for a first-time One Happy Camper grant or Greater MetroWest scholarship.
  4. Take a deep breath.
  5. Begin getting ready. Start by getting your child in for a physical and downloading the packing list.
  6. Involve your soon-to-be-camper in assembling what they need.
  7. Ask the camp to connect you with other families of children near you who go to the camp. If there’s time before camp starts to meet them, that’s great. If not, you might meet on drop-off day.
  8. Label everything. We’ll send you a free clothing marker – just ask! (Or a sharpie will work just fine.)
  9. Remember you may be more nervous than your child is.
  10. You did it!

Adapted with permission from Claire Winthrop, Combined Jewish Philanthropies of Boston