Now that your child has made the all-important decision to “go away” to camp, you might be wondering how best to prepare for summer. And, often times, it is you – the parent – who is more nervous for their child’s first sleep away camping experience. Don’t worry, though! Here are some tips to ensure a successful summer experience – both for your child and for you:

 

• If you are experiencing fear or anxiety about sending your child off to camp, discuss it with your spouse or friends (not your child). Sensing that you are worried will only worry your child.

 

• Avoid statements like “I’m going to miss you terribly”. While you might believe that you are reassuring your child, you don’t want her to feel guilty about leaving you.

 

• It is okay to let your child know that he might experience some homesickness and that it is normal and natural for most kids. Talk to the camp to find out how they handle homesickness and let your child know that there will be a counselor or even a “camp mom” whose sole job is to comfort homesick campers.

 

• If you were a camper once yourself, you could heighten your child’s interest in camp by pointing out some of the exciting things you remember about your own camping experiences.

 

• Do NOT offer to pick your child up if she is not having a good time. Avoid statements such as “If you don’t like camp, you can come home.”

 

• Arrange times when your child can “practice” being away from home prior to camp, even if it’s just a sleepover at a friend’s house.

 

• Tell the camp administrators that your child may be predisposed to homesickness due to unusual circumstances at home (e.g. a pending divorce, a permanent move, or a serious illness in the family).

 

• Ask how you can find out if your child is having a good time. Each camp is different. Many camps post photos on their website to reassure parents that their children are indeed participating and having fun. Others might arrange to have a first-time camper call home, particularly if you have specific concerns.

 

• Camps’ policies about emails, letters, packages and phone calls also vary. Review these policies with your child in advance, so that they know what to expect once they arrive.

 

• If your child is still attached to a “blankie” or a certain stuffed animal, she might be hesitant to take it with her to camp fearing that she is the only one still with a security item. Pack it in a pillowcase or a bag, however, so that she knows she will have it if she needs it at camp. She might even end up comparing her lovey with her cabin mate’s, once they have bonded and feel a little more comfortable.

 

• Make your child a small photo album with pictures of family members and the family pet, or tape the pictures to the inside of their trunk (where they can always take a peek).

 

• Give your child pre-addressed, stamped envelopes or postcards. And, send a letter in the mail before your child arrives at camp so that a welcome message will be waiting there on their first night of camp.