Every parent knows that there is a buzz in the air before a child heads off to camp! While a child may be wondering what they will do at camp and who they will meet, parents are left to wonder what they will wear and if they will bathe. As the leading authority of the camp industry, the American Camp Association (ACA) has tips and suggestions for parents about packing light.

ACA recommends that families prepare for camp together. Decisions about camp - from where to go to what to pack - should be a joint venture, keeping in mind the child's maturity. When children participate in the decision-making process, their likelihood of enjoying a positive experience is improved.

Below are six categories, from the toes up, to consider when packing for camp! Check out the complete packing list here . Before shopping and packing for camp, check with the camp director and review the camp packing lists to see what items are recommended or required.

1. Footwear is important for children at camp, especially when they are hiking, spelunking, running, and heading to the beach! ACA recommends families consider packing boots, tennis shoes, sandals, lots of socks, and dress shoes, if the camp requires them. And don't forget to break in shoes and boots before camp begins!

2. Headgear is a necessary packing item for camp in order to protect a camper from the sun and also bugs. ACA suggests that parents consider packing scarves, bandannas, baseball caps or a sunhat, as well as needed eyeglasses, sunglasses, and swimming goggles.

3. Clothing is a necessary component of camp, just don't expect any to return home clean! ACA recommends families include T-shirts, a swim suit, and shorts for hot days; a jacket, sweatshirt, jeans for cool or cold days; and a raincoat or poncho for rainy days. Also, long pants will protect a camper from poison ivy, bugs, and thorns during hikes. Check with the camp to see if dress clothes are required.

4. Bed and Bath is an aspect of camp that can't be ignored, as having fun and getting dirty go together for most kids! ACA recommends a camper bring towels, as well as a blanket, pillow, pillow cases, sheets, sleeping bag, laundry bag, and mattress pad.

5. Bathroom Kits are essential, even though there is no guarantee they will always get used as often as parents would hope. ACA recommends families provide campers with a brush and comb, shampoo, soap and soap container, toothbrush and holder, toothpaste, deodorant, insect repellent, feminine products, sun block, shaving gear, and lip balm with sun block in it.

6. Gear can keep a child entertained during those rainy or slow days. ACA recommends packing books and magazines, flashlights and batteries, frisbees or other toys, a water bottle, and writing materials. When considering electronics, musical instruments, and other special gear, check with the camp about policies.

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For advice from camp professional and child development experts about what to pack, and how to prepare for camp, visit ACA's family-dedicated website, www.CampParents.org.