The contract is signed, the payment’s been made, and there’s no turning back now. Panic and anxiety might wash over you as you come to terms with the fact that your child is heading off to sleepaway camp. While sending your child away can feel daunting, it can also serve as a meaningful rite of passage. The first summer—along with the months leading up to it—holds significant weight. Kids learn to be responsible and navigate challenges independently, without a parent swooping in to save the day.
When my son, Jack, went off last year, it hit me much harder than I anticipated, even though he seemed ready. After dedicating a decade to raising my kids, the realization that one was leaving home stirred up a mini “empty-nest syndrome” within me.
On the day of departure, Jack expressed his first hint of trepidation, saying, “I’m not sure I can get on the bus.” Inside, I wanted to scream, “Stay home! I’ll look after you forever!” but I composed myself and reminded him that other new campers felt the same. With a mix of fear and excitement, he boarded the bus, waved goodbye, and was off. Meanwhile, I took my daughter to a morning movie, indulged her with popcorn and M&M’s, and shed a few tears while she enjoyed Monsters University.
I won’t pretend I didn’t spend the following two weeks refreshing my computer, scanning for photos of him and analyzing every posted image for signs of joy or distress. I eagerly awaited that first letter, and I confess I cried with each one that arrived. The entire experience was a whirlwind, but ultimately, both Jack and I emerged from it stronger. He had a fantastic time, growing in ways I hadn’t anticipated. My daughter missed him but relished her time being the sole focus of my attention at home.
If you find yourself in a similar situation, here are ten strategies to help you and your child navigate this transition more smoothly.
Before the Camp Begins…
- Choosing the Right Camp: With countless options available—co-ed vs. single gender, proximity to home, specialized programs, and more—it can be overwhelming. A wise friend who runs a sleepaway camp once told me, “In the end, they’re all just cabins in the woods.” Determine your “must-haves,” tour a few camps, and then trust your instincts. As long as the camp aligns with your priorities, you’re in good shape.
- Connect with a Local Camper: Reach out to a kid in your area who has attended the camp before. Having a familiar face can ease anxiety and provide insider knowledge that no camp brochure can offer. Do this a few weeks ahead of time so your child can pack any helpful items.
- Stick to the Essentials List: Follow the camp’s packing list closely and avoid bringing anything unnecessary. Old socks and slightly small clothes are perfect for camp; just ensure you label everything (namebubbles.com is a great resource). However, do consider including trendy items that all the kids will have, like popular socks—it’s worth it for your child’s peace of mind.
Once They’ve Arrived…
- Don’t Worry About Minor Issues: Things like daily showers, sunscreen application, and even hair grooming will be taken care of by camp staff. My son came back with a little extra sun on his face and some dirt, but a good wash took care of everything.
- Relax About Their Weight: Kids tend to lose weight at camp due to all the activity. If your child has specific eating concerns, check in with the camp director. Otherwise, counselors will notify you if there’s an issue. Rest assured, they’ll gain weight back quickly once home.
On Visiting Day…
- Ask the Right Questions: Instead of prying too deeply, keep it simple. Ask about their friends and how they feel. My first question after weeks apart was “Are you okay?” His simple response, “Yeah, I’m cool,” told me everything I needed to know.
- Avoid Overloading with Treats: While it’s tempting to turn your car into a candy store, check the camp’s policies on treats. It’s best to bring a few of your child’s favorites and perhaps a shared treat for the bunk, like a cookie cake.
- Don’t Inspect Their Space: Their bunks and bathrooms will be messy—there’s no escaping that. Save yourself the stress and skip the inspection.
- Leave Quickly: When it’s time to say goodbye, do so swiftly. Lingering can make it harder for both you and your child. A quick hug and a wave are all you need.
After They Return Home…
- Give Them Space: Some kids experience a difficult transition back home. Jack, however, slipped right back into life as if he had never left. After a couple of days, I was already ready to send him back!
Once a month or two has passed, it’s the perfect time to discuss everything you wanted to know about their camp experience. Over dinner in the fall, you can finally ask your burning questions. The experience will still be fresh in their mind, and you’ll likely find that most of your questions aren’t essential. The only question that really matters is whether they want to return next summer. Jack’s answer? “Oh yeah, I’m going back!”
Sleepaway camp can be a wonderful opportunity for your child to gain independence, and it can be equally beneficial for you as a parent. You will not only survive this experience—chances are you’ll thrive.
Summary
Sending your child to sleepaway camp can be both daunting and rewarding. By carefully selecting the right camp, connecting with other campers, and preparing for their departure and return, you can ease the transition for everyone involved. Remember that this experience is not only a chance for your child to grow but also for you to adjust to new dynamics at home.