The paperwork is completed, the fees are paid, and there’s no going back. The overwhelming feelings of panic, fear, and anxiety start to bubble up as you realize your child is headed to sleepaway camp.
Sending your child off to camp can feel like a significant milestone, especially during their first summer. It’s a chance for them to learn independence and responsibility, all while managing challenges without their parent to intervene. Last summer, my son, Jake, was eager to go, but for me, letting go of my eldest was far more difficult than I anticipated. After taking a decade off work to focus on my children, seeing one of them leave felt like a small taste of “empty-nest syndrome.”
As departure day approached, Jake exhibited his first sign of nervousness, stating, “I’m not sure I can get on the bus.” My instinct screamed, “Stay home! I’ll take care of you forever!” However, I composed myself, reassuring him that all the other kids were feeling similar jitters. With a wave, he boarded the bus, and I did what any rational parent might do: I took my daughter to an early movie, bought her popcorn and M&M’s, and cried during the showing of Toy Story 4.
I won’t pretend I didn’t spend two weeks refreshing my computer screen for updates and analyzing every picture for signs of joy or distress. I anxiously awaited that first letter, which brought tears of relief and joy. This cycle continued for seven weeks. Ultimately, we all emerged from the experience changed for the better. Jake thrived, and my daughter enjoyed her time as the solo child at home, soaking in the attention. If you find yourself preparing for a similar journey, here are ten tips to ease the transition for everyone involved.
Before Camp Starts…
- Choosing the Right Camp: With so many options, it can be overwhelming – co-ed, single-sex, local, far away, specialized programs. A wise camp owner once told me, “At the end of the day, they are all just cabins in the woods.” Identify your top priorities, visit a few camps, and trust your instincts. As long as the camp aligns with your essentials, it’s just a cabin in the woods.
- Connect with Local Campers: Try to connect with a child in your area who is also going to the same camp. Having a familiar face can make a huge difference. Returning campers can provide insights that camp brochures won’t tell you. Make these connections a few weeks before camp starts to sneak in any last-minute essentials into their bags.
- Stick to the Packing List: When you receive the camp packing list, stick to it. Use items you already have, even if they are a bit worn. Label everything you care about (namebubbles.com is great for this). However, if there’s a trend like popular socks that all the kids have, consider including those to help your child fit in without stressing about the other details.
While They’re at Camp…
- Let Go of the Little Things: Don’t stress too much about sunscreen, hygiene, or hair care. Camp staff typically ensures that these basics are taken care of. My son came home a bit sun-kissed and with a slight odor, but a good wash took care of everything.
- Trust the Process: Kids often lose weight at camp due to constant activity, so don’t panic if they seem slimmer. If your child has specific eating concerns, communicate with the camp director. Otherwise, know they’ll be back to their usual selves soon after returning home.
On Visiting Day…
- Choose Your Questions Wisely: Ask open-ended questions like, “Are you having fun?” instead of leading with concerns. When I asked Jake if he was okay after three weeks, he simply replied, “Yeah, Mom, I’m good.” This reassured me more than any detailed conversation would have.
- Control the Candy Craze: It’s tempting to bring a ton of treats, but check the camp’s policy first. Some camps limit candy, so bring a few favorites and perhaps a treat to share with the bunk. A cookie cake is a fun idea, and a small gift like a new hat can brighten your child’s day.
- Avoid Inspecting Their Space: The cabins and bathrooms will likely be messy. Spare yourself the stress of seeing the chaos.
- Make Your Departure Quick: When it’s time to leave, don’t linger. Say goodbye quickly and let them get back to their friends. It’s often harder for them to see you leave than it is for you to walk away.
After They Return…
- Give Them Space: Some kids may struggle with readjusting after camp. Jake seemed to slide back into home life as if he had never left. A few days after his return, I was already contemplating sending him back. Wait a few weeks to ask all the questions you’ve been holding back; by then, the experience will still be fresh in their memory.
Ultimately, sleepaway camp is a fantastic opportunity for children to grow, and it offers parents a chance for growth as well. You will both emerge stronger from the experience.
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In summary, while preparing for your child’s first experience at sleepaway camp can feel daunting, with the right strategies and mindset, the experience can be rewarding for both children and parents.