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I just love camp counselors. I mean, whether it’s for a week or the whole summer, these people take on MY kids! This may not sound like it’s such a hard job, but let me tell you if they weren’t so darn cute, I think they would have already been shipped off to Alaska (JK).
Seriously though, these counselors have a hard job making sure kids are safe, having fun, and counseling them to be good productive people while dealing with the occasional bed wetter and homesick kid that won’t stop crying. With that being said, even the most seasoned camp counselors have it tough. But, can you imagine a new camp counselor taking on all that?!
I can’t even imagine what these people must be going through getting thrown to the wolves with all these kids. So, I think it is only fair to get them some great gifts and things they can actually use.
Gifts and Necessities for New Camp Counselors
When it comes to someone taking care of your kiddos, even if it’s for a week, they deserve a little more appreciation than a paycheck. Here are some great gift ideas and necessities for new camp counselors that you can get!
A Timex Expedition Watch
There is always something going on at camp, and camp counselors need to get their kids where they need to go on time. You can help by getting them this waterproof watch.
Healthy Human Water bottles
Whether the bottle is for the counselor or a camper, a camp counselor can never have too many water bottles. So, stock them up with some of the best.
Bear Butt Hammock
Usually, a camp counselor will have a cabin with a bunch of kids, but when they get a break, having a hammock is an excellent way for them to escape and relax.
Waterproof Camera
Not only do parents love to see pictures of their kiddos having fun, but camp counselors like to have pictures to look back on all the kids that have been a part of their lives. But, it needs to be waterproof.
Storymatic Imagination Cards
Sometimes, it is hard to get the campers to open up and talk. These are great cards for counselors to get the kids talking and having fun, especially for newbies that don’t know what they are doing yet.
Portable Charger
This may not be a necessity, but you never know when it will come in handy. Even if you can get service out in the wilderness, it isn’t any good without a charger.
Tie-Dye Kit
This may not be as much for the counselor as it is for the kids, but this is something kids look forward to. If a newbie doesn’t have a tie dye kit, they may not be the favorite counselor.
Sondiko Torch
Let’s face it; getting a fire started is no easy task. Even the pros have a hard time sometimes. So, make it just a little easier on your kids’ counselor this year with a torch.
Set of 54 Mini Flashlights
A camp counselor can never have too many flashlights. This way, if one goes out, there is always another one. Plus, these are great for counselors to give each kid as they tell stories around the campfire.
Bees and Me Paracord Bracelet Kit
Here is another gift that isn’t so much for the counselor, but an item counselors will want to have. It’s something kids can do during their downtime.
Swiss Army Knife
There really is no need for an explanation here: A Swiss Army Knife is always needed!
Supergoop Everyday Sunscreen
This is one big tub of sunscreen, but if your kids are going to be out in the sun most of the time, they are going to need some sunscreen. Of course, the camp counselor will need some as well. So, this gift is one for everyone.
Deck of Playing Cards
One of my favorite parts of summer camp was staying up late, sneaking out of the cabin, and playing tons of card games with other rebels. Cards a great counselor tool for down time as well.
Stress Relief Balls
Let’s face it; dealing with kids is stressful. A stress ball is definitely a necessity for a newbie. Plus, a pack is great if there are some kiddos that need one, too.
Survival Gear Kit
This kit has everything one could ever need out in the wilderness. From a screwdriver and wrench to a compass and Saber card.
Febreze
Seriously, kids are smelly, especially when they have been outside all day. In fact, that funk doesn’t go away after a shower. Camp counselors will love a pack of Febreze.
Duct Tape
Whether taping a kid to the wall (JK) or taping a pair of soles to a shoe, Duct Tape always has a use and a purpose.
Toiletries
Some kids come without these things, so give as many as you can. Trust me; it is no fun dealing with smelly kids.
Laundry Bag
Laundry bags are great for camp counselors since they have to travel to the laundromat to do their laundry. This is a gift that will last their entire career.
Water Shoes
When you are camping, you are sure to step in some water somewhere, not to mention the lake. So, getting a pair of water shoes is a great gift.
Extra Swimsuits for Boys and Girls
It can be challenging for a counselor to do his job if kids don’t have proper swimming suits. Getting a few for both boys and girls can be a lifesaver for a new counselor.
Popup Tent
Putting up a tent takes a lot of time. Popup tents make it so much easier. They literally take about 5-10 minutes to set up. These are an excellent idea for camp counselors.
Permanent Markers
When you have a bunch of kids in one place, things are sure to get mixed up. A great way for counselors to prevent this mixup is to use permanent markers and label each kid’s items as they come in.
Writing supplies
Both the counselor and the kids will want to write home from time to time. Having writing supplies on hand makes this process easier for the camp counselor.
Bug Spray
Bugs are inevitable when you are camping. This means the bug spray is going to be long gone after a few days. So, stock your counselor up with this all-natural repellent.
First Aid Kit
This should probably be the top of the list of items to get a camp counselor. Although they may have one, a whole summer dealing with falls and scrapes is sure to wipe out a first aid kit.
Whistle
Nothing beats a personalized gift, and this gift is actually useful. When kids get rowdy, a whistle can be really handy, especially for a newbie.
Coffee Mug
Camp counselors definitely need coffee, so get them a special mug that tells them how awesome they are.
Camping T-Shirt
When you have to do laundry at the laundromat, camp counselors can never have too many T-shirts. So get them a special one.
Camp Keychain
Another cute gift to get a counselor is a camp keychain. Nothing bit but shows a token of your appreciation.
Camping Lantern
This lantern will hang in the tent, on a tree, or anywhere a camp counselor may need it. This is definitely a necessity.
Summer Camp Care Package
If in doubt, Amazon has the perfect summer camp care packages for counselors. So, grab one of those to help them out.
What other gifts or necessities have you given your kids’ camp counselor. We would love to know in the comments below!
