Summer Camp Must-Haves

Kids headed to summer camp usually require a long list of necessities, but what about all the fun things that aren't found on the packing list? I interviewed a few seasoned campers for their input, and they had some great ideas on little things from home that meant a lot. Here's there list of their must-haves from mom and dad:

• A small, battery powered fan
• iPods and headphones
• Playing cards
• Bubble gum (and lots of it)
• Sunglasses
• Mad Libs
• String for making friendship bracelets
• Favorite snacks from home
• Homemade cookies and brownies
• Nail polish
• A magazine to feel connected to the outside world
• Fun-shaped pillows
• Stuffed animals (to hug when mom and dad aren't there)
• Laminated pictures of friends and family to hang in the cabin
• Soda pop
• Candy that won't melt
• Temporary tattoos
• Pre-stamped postcards to send home to friends and family

My young camping friends agreed—it doesn't matter whether you send these items in a care package or secretly tuck them in their duffle bag, they'll know you took time to think of them and that's all that matters. And if you don't have time to bake your own cookies and brownies? Well, Mrs. Fields can help with that. (Wink, wink.)