I rushed up the escalator, eager to reach the gate where my daughter’s flight was set to arrive. This was her first summer at sleepaway camp, and I had been anxiously awaiting updates on her experiences, from her bunkmates to the meals, even the adventures she was having. Most days, however, the mailbox offered nothing but junk mail and bills. The few letters I received were brief: “I like my counselors. We went swimming. I have hot chocolate for breakfast every day.”
Perhaps the short and simple messages indicated she was too busy enjoying camp to write more. Or maybe, just maybe, she was not having a good time and chose not to share that with me.
As soon as I spotted her, I waved enthusiastically and embraced her tightly. “I missed you!” I exclaimed. “How was camp?”
“I want to go for the whole month next year,” she replied, her hug less fervent than mine. There was no “I missed you too” or tears of joy upon our reunion.
I stepped back to really see my daughter. Her hair sported sun-kissed highlights, her cheeks radiated health, and she appeared taller. The once clingy, emotional child I had sent off two weeks earlier was now replaced by a composed, self-assured version. It struck me then: my daughter had just enjoyed a weeks-long experience that was solely hers, free from my influence. Throughout the summer, as I learned more about camp and observed her transformation, I realized how valuable this was.
Choosing to send your child to sleepaway camp is no small decision. It can be emotional for both parents and kids since spending more than a couple of days away from home can feel daunting. Then there’s the task of finding the right camp, not to mention the cost, which can rival an upscale family vacation. Yet, the benefits of providing your child with their own unique experience are immeasurable.
As one of three siblings, camp is the only space where my daughter can truly be herself, without the labels of being an older or younger sister. This environment allows her to explore her interests, form her own opinions, and connect with peers without any sibling or parental influence. Being placed in a cabin with 11 unfamiliar girls meant she had to quickly adapt to different personalities, learn to navigate social dynamics, and forge friendships, even with those she might not initially click with. While counselors are available to help, campers are generally encouraged to resolve their conflicts independently—a stark contrast to the adult mediation that often occurs at home. My daughters have returned from camp with enhanced confidence, improved social skills, and a willingness to embrace new challenges—even if it means facing initial failures. These are essential life skills tested in the unique environment of camp.
But sleepaway camp isn’t just beneficial for the kids; it also provides a refreshing break for me, serving as the perfect remedy to the chaotic end-of-school-year frenzy. Once my older daughters head off to camp, the home becomes quieter, our daily routine less hectic, and I find time to bond with my youngest. In between working from home, I indulge in reading, writing, and leisurely walks. I enjoy a significantly slower pace of life, allowing me to reflect on my experiences and embrace the joys of motherhood more fully.
The calmer atmosphere also positively impacts my marriage. With fewer kids around, my husband and I rediscover the simple pleasure of uninterrupted conversations or just relishing the tranquility of a less populated home. We can put our youngest to bed early and spend quality time together, rather than scrambling for a quick goodnight kiss in the dark.
As my daughters and I prepare for this year’s camp trip, excitement fills the air. They are eager to explore the grounds with friends, sneak snacks from the kitchen at midnight, and truly immerse themselves in carefree joy. For me, this time apart is an opportunity to savor my relationship with my husband and enjoy life at a more leisurely pace.
In summary, sending your children to sleepaway camp not only fosters their independence and social skills but also offers parents a chance to recharge and reconnect.