Summer Camp for 5-Year-Olds: Is Your Child Ready?

Most 5-year-olds who have been in preschool or daycare are ready for a day camp built for young children. The best fit is a camp with small groups, a predictable daily schedule, lots of outdoor play and staff used to working with kindergarten-age kids. Overnight camp is usually years away.

Here is how to tell if your child is ready and how to choose a camp that fits.

Signs your 5-year-old is ready for day camp

• They separate from you at drop-off without long distress.
• They can use the bathroom on their own, including washing hands.
• They can follow simple group directions, like lining up or waiting a turn.
• They can eat lunch and open most containers by themselves.
• They can tell an adult when they are hurt, thirsty or need help.
• They enjoy being active outside for long stretches.

If your child is still working on a few of these, look for a camp with smaller groups or a program attached to a preschool they already know.

Types of camps for young children

Preschool or child care summer programs

Many child care centers run summer camps for kindergarten-age children. These often keep the full-day hours families already use, with weekly themes, field trips and outdoor play. For children who already attend, the building and staff are familiar.

Park district day camps

Most north suburban park districts run camps for ages 5 and up, often in half-day or full-day blocks. Registration can open in winter and fill quickly.

Specialty camps

Sports, art, science or nature camps are usually shorter, often a few hours a day for one week. They work well as an add-on to full-day care.

What to ask before you sign up

1. What ages are grouped together? A 5-year-old does best with children close in age.
2. How many children are there per counselor?
3. How old are the counselors, and what training do they have, such as first aid and CPR?
4. What does a typical day look like, including rest and indoor time on hot days?
5. How do you handle swimming, sunscreen and water safety?
6. Are lunch and snacks provided?
7. What are the hours, and is extended care available?
8. How do you handle homesickness, accidents or a child who struggles?

What to pack

• Labeled backpack, water bottle and lunch if needed
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Closed-toe shoes for active play
• Swimsuit and towel on swim days
• A full change of clothes, including underwear
• A small comfort item for rest time, if allowed

Helping your child get ready

• Visit the camp or look at photos together.
• Talk about what a camp day will look like: games, outside time, lunch with friends.
• Practice opening lunch containers and applying sunscreen.
• Keep goodbyes short and cheerful.

See from pre-K to summer camp for more on the change in routine.

Summer camp and kindergarten

For children starting kindergarten in the fall, a summer camp can be a helpful middle step. It keeps routines steady, builds independence and gives children practice in a bigger group. Keep sleep schedules steady in August so the first weeks of school feel easier.

Frequently asked questions

What age can kids go to summer camp?

Many day camps start at age 5, or at kindergarten age. Some preschool programs offer summer care for younger children.

Is full-day camp too long for a 5-year-old?

Not if the camp builds in rest, shade, snacks and quiet time. Children used to full-day preschool usually handle it well.

When should I sign up for summer camp?

Popular camps can open registration in winter. Start looking in January or February.

Can I use a dependent care FSA for summer camp?

Day camp usually counts as a qualifying expense when it lets you work. Overnight camp does not. See our dependent care FSA guide.

Summer camp at Children's Land

Children's Land runs a summer camp from June to mid-August for children ages 5 to 12. The age range differs by location: Grayslake, Mount Prospect, Palatine and Wheeling serve children through age 12, while other locations serve younger campers. Our locations are open Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Visit our summer camp page, find a location, or contact us for next summer's dates.

Related reading: Preschool Graduation Ideas for Families.