Proper Attire
When you are camping, you are basically living outdoors and will have to weather all the conditions nature throws at you. It's best to be prepared by bringing enough clothing with you. Because the woods are usually cooler at night, be sure to pack warm clothes. It's a smart idea to pack some long pants, long shirt and, possibly, a jacket for the child to wear. Children don't have the same ability as adults to maintain their body heat for long periods of time, so pack extra clothes to keep them warm. You'll also want to be prepared for warmer conditions, especially if swimming might be involved. Bring a poncho they can wear if it rains and several pairs of shoes such a tennis shoes, flip flops and hiking shoes.
Recreation Activities
Consider what type of recreational activities the group will be doing while camping. If you'll be doing water activities, be sure to pack a bathing suit, sunscreen, safety gear and anything else children might enjoy in the water, such as rafts, floaties or other water toys. If you will be hiking, pack proper shoes and socks they can wear while walking. If they have a backpack they'd like to carry along on the trek, bring it along. Consider what you personally would require on the trek and pack it for the child.
Games
Because most children can get bored easily, bring along some of their favorite games and toys. Let them pick out items that they think will keep them entertained. These can be anything from board games, books, coloring books, puzzles, battery-operated cars, iPods or anything else that will keep them happy while in camp.
Food and First Aid
Always prepare a first aid kit that contains everything you'll need in the event the child or anyone else in camp gets injured. Pack the kit with standard items such as bandages, gauze, antiseptic, bug spray and other items required to treat an injury or minor illness. You will also want to pack medical items that the child might require while on the trip, such as cold medications, allergy medications or any other special medications they might need.
Pack snack and food items that the child enjoys eating. Camping is a special time for the family to get together and enjoy each other. Pack food items they normally wouldn't eat in their everyday life at home that can be enjoyed on this special event. Throw in some hot chocolate that they can have during the cooler mornings.
