Summer Daycamp Swap

picklewart.blogspot.com

I know it's getting late in the summer, but I read about the concept of a co-op.-style summer camp swap to do with your friends. Each friend takes a turn hosting a day of "summer camp" or "fall camp" or ANY season of camp for that matter! This idea greatly intrigued me. I have many Christian friends that I would feel very comfortable entrusting the care of my children to. As I look into it, the more I realize this could really become a blessing to both you and your friends! A break to do what Mom needs to do, a savings on the cost of a babysitter while you do it, and the opportunity to serve one another in a much-needed way!
So, here's what I'm finding as I go along:

• Come up with a theme for the day. It will make it more memorable for the kids involved.
• Agree on discipline ahead of time. Ex. Time-outs, corners, etc. with phone calls if it needs further attention.
• Agree on no TV, movies, computer, etc. beforehand.
• Define any age limits of children involved in the summer camp swap.
• Address nap times. All children are different. As long as everyone knows ahead of time, any nap schedule can be accommodated.
• Before adding new members to the rotation, discuss in private with the existing members before offering.

Below might be a timeline example of a Summer Camp Swap for preschool-aged children (older children could do longer days):

9 AM Drop-off - Coloring sheets while they settle in
9:15 Books, Songs/Music, Circle Time
9:45 Craft/Art
10:15 Outdoor Activity
10:45 Small snack
11:00 Free Play
11:30 Indoor Activity
12:00 LUNCH!
12:30 Indoor Activity/Free Play
1:30 Pick-up
(This schedule allows for PreK ages to go home for rest/nap times in the afternoon.)

I'm curious if any of you have ever done anything like this. I'd love to hear your thoughts and ideas!!
~Michelle