Five Best Tips for
First-Time Success at Camp
Sending a child away to camp for the first time is a major
milestone for most families, one that is often marked by excitement,
anticipation, and perhaps even some anxiety. However, when children are taking positive risks in a safe
and nurturing camp environment, they have little time to miss home and a lot of
time dedicated to fun, growing, and learning. Prepare your child for the time
of his or her life with the following tips from camp professionals and child
development experts:
1. Talk to your child before camp. “What does your child expect
to do at camp? Learning about the camp experience ahead of time allows you to
create positive expectations. Also, talking with your child about these kinds of issues is a great way
to show support as your child gets ready to take this important step on the
road to being more resilient and self-reliant. For you as a parent, it can give
you more peace of mind as you allow your child to participate safely in a
broader world.”
–Peg L. Smith, ACA CEO
2. Prepare children for issues that come up so they know what to
do in your absence. “Share with your child that everyone has good days and bad
days, and if they are having a problem, their counselor is there to help them.
Make sure they understand that if the counselor doesn’t know what might be
troubling them, he/she can’t help. Ask your child to be honest and to ask for
what they need.”
–Bob Ditter, family therapist
3. Practice, practice, practice! “Encourage your child’s
independence throughout the year. Practice separations, such as sleepovers at a
friend’s or grandma’s house, which can simulate the camp environment.”
–Peg
L. Smith, ACA CEO
4. Making new friends at camp. “If your child is shy about
meeting new kids, encourage them to get to know others by being a good
listener. Also, remind them that not everyone in the cabin, bunk, or group has
to be their friend, and they don’t have to be everyone else’s friend, as long
as they treat one another with respect.”
–Bob Ditter, family therapist
5. Homesickness can be prevented. “Tell your child that some feelings of homesickness are
normal! When children arrive at camp with a repertoire of coping strategies and
some practice time away from home under their belts, they are ready for those
normal feelings of homesickness. Keep in mind that only seven percent of
homesickness cases are severe.”
–Ann Sheets, ACA President#
