At Peña Txuri Surf Eskola, we’ve been welcoming boys and girls to our surf camps for many years, and if we’ve learned anything, it’s that the camp begins long before arriving at the beach. It starts at home, with excitement, nerves, questions… and yes, sometimes also with some parental mistakes that, although well-intentioned, can affect their children’s experience.
Here we share the most common mistakes we’ve detected and our tips as a school to avoid them and help you make the experience unforgettable, in a good way.
- Thinking that surfing is the only important thing
Yes, we’re at a surf camp. But no, it’s not just about surfing. Coexistence, friendships, group activities, respect for the environment, and personal growth are equally important. Sometimes parents focus so much on surfing technique that they forget it’s a complete life experience.
🟦 Tip: Talk at home not only about the waves but about what it means to spend several days away, share a room, make new friends, try new things. Preparing the heart is as important as preparing the board.
- Packing half the house (or not enough)
Some children arrive with a trekking backpack ready for the Himalayas. Others with barely a change of clothes and no towel. Both extremes are common. In a surf camp, the important thing is to have just what’s needed: comfortable, functional clothing suitable for the northern climate.
🟦 Tip: Follow the list we provide from the school. Add sunscreen, spare swimwear, a large towel, a raincoat, and a few sweatshirts. Avoid the unnecessary. Simplicity in packing is also part of the learning process.
Índice
3. Not emotionally preparing the child
It’s very common to underestimate the emotional impact of going to a camp for the first time. For many, it’s their first trip alone, and although they may experience it with excitement, there can also be fear, insecurity, or nerves.
🟦 Tip: In the days leading up, create positive conversations. Talk about the instructors, what daily life will be like, what might happen if they feel sad one day. Give them tools to manage the unexpected. Confidence begins at home.
4. Wanting to control the experience during the stay
We perfectly understand that you want to know how your children are doing, but there’s a fine line between being informed and interfering with their adaptation. Daily calls, messages, or video calls can interrupt the natural group dynamic and make it difficult for the child to feel truly independent.
🟦 Tip: At Peña Txuri, we keep you informed through established channels. Trust us and give space. While you’re wondering if they’ve eaten well, they’re probably playing, laughing, or surfing their best wave of the day.
- Forcing them to go if they don’t want to
Some children aren’t ready for a camp, and that’s okay. Insisting or imposing it without previously addressing fears or resistance can generate a negative memory that isn’t worth it.
🟦 Tip: Listen, understand, and dialogue. Sometimes they need time. Sometimes, just understanding. If the child isn’t ready, it’s not a failure. And if they are but are afraid, help them cross that bridge without pushing.
- Not sharing important information with the school
We sometimes encounter allergies, dietary needs, sleep problems, or behaviors that parents don’t mention… and that can risk the child’s well-being or coexistence.
🟦 Tip: Be transparent. Everything you tell us is treated professionally. The more information we have, the better we can take care of your child. It’s not about judging, but about supporting.
7. Leaving everything to the last minute
Sometimes, with just two days to go, there are those who still haven’t sent in the documentation, bought a swimsuit, or even read the school’s emails. Last-minute stress ends up affecting everyone: parents, children, and instructors.
🟦 Tip: Anticipate. Organize yourself with a week’s margin. Review the lists, ask what you don’t understand, and ensure your child arrives with everything prepared. That initial order creates security for everyone.
At Peña Txuri, the camp begins long before surfing
For us, supporting families is also part of the surf camp. We see how, when parents are well-informed, organized, and relaxed, children arrive with more confidence. And when the family trusts, everything flows better.
If you’re thinking of enrolling your child in our camp, congratulations. You’re gifting them an experience they probably will never forget. And if you also avoid these common mistakes, they’ll experience it with excitement, freedom, and learning.
🌊 See you at the beach, with well-packed backpacks, well-discussed emotions, and high enthusiasm!