Step 1

Google

Search the Internet for “plan a trip on public transportation.” Google Transit is excellent and you’ll also find city specific sites.  Psst:  The camp bus doesn't count.

Step 2

Options

Plan least 2 alternatives for on-time arrival, i.e., departure time or location, route, or mode, i.e., bus vs. subway.

Step 3

Verify

Check with the camp director to ensure their willing to support this. Assuming they are, let’s move on to step 4.

Step 4

4 Sets

Collect 4 sets of maps, timetables, and rider tips.

1. Child’s backpack
2. Your purse
3. Camp director
4. Posted to the fridge

Step 5

Ask

Ask your child. Choice is an essential ingredient for ownership. Ask her to consider taking public transportation to camp. Let her know that you’ll practice with her and reassure her that you have confidence in her ability to handle the greater responsibility. 

Your child may initially love the idea and then second-guess herself. Make sure you’re ready to support fluctuations in confidence and her inevitable mistakes before extending the invitation.

Step 6

Practice

Make at least 1 practice run together. Simulate the actual journey, i.e., time of day, back pack, clothes worn, etc.

Step 7

Back Up

Step back farther by following the bus in your car until she’s ready to go solo.

Step 8

Notify

Notify the camp director that your child is ready to start using public transportation and provide a set of the documents along with instructions to call you should your child need support.

Step 9

Let Go

When your child says he’s ready, let it happen. Yikes! Breath and relax, he’s prepared and will be okay. Acknowledge your nerves. Be clear that your nervousness is normal parent anxiety and has little to do with your confidence in his readiness.

Trouble letting go? This transition is just like letting go at the kindergarten door. Maybe you weren’t ready, but he was. Let him reassure you for a change or wait to let go until you feel better.

Step 10

Yay!