It's almost that time of year again, summer camp is around the corner. This brings up mixed emotions for kids, parents and families on how to navigate this, especially if it is your first time sending your kids off to camp! Your kid(s) may be anxious and you may be anxious, which is completely normal and expected. Some parents and kids have a harder time adjusting than others and there is nothing wrong with that, oftentimes it is short lived. This blog will explore some tips on how to prepare yourself and your child for summer camp!
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Preparing your kids for separation anxiety
Get your child ready to tackle separation anxiety head-on. It's typical for children to feel a bit anxious when they head off to summer camp, especially if it's their first time. Ease their worries by discussing all the exciting experiences they'll have and the friendships they'll make. Remember, it's natural for both you and your child to feel homesickness, especially if it's the first time being apart. Talking about this with your child and normalizing that these emotions may come up can be very helpful. Be ready to confront your own emotions as well as you support your kids through this new adventure.
Remind your kids that you will be coming to pick them up at the end of camp, so they don't have to worry about being away from home for too long. By preparing them for separation anxiety, you can help make their camp experience more enjoyable. Also if there is a family day at camp you plan on attending let them know so they can look forward to that.
Communication is key
Camps may limit the use of cell-phones or calls, if your child has a phone it may be best they not use it. Take advantage of this chance to revive the lost tradition of letter writing by equipping your child with pens, paper, envelopes, and stamps before they head off to camp. Encourage them to write to you, sharing their experiences, the activities they're enjoying, the friends they're making, and the lessons they're learning. This practice not only hones their writing skills but also creates precious written memories that they'll cherish as they grow older. You should write to them as well!
If you receive an S.O.S. letter (or even several), remain calm. This does not mean you have to rush up there to pick them up. Remember, camp staff are experienced in dealing with homesickness. Their priority is ensuring your child has a great time. It's alright to contact the camp office once or twice. However, the purpose of the call should be to confirm that they're aware of your child's homesickness or give any helpful information, they will take it from there.
If your child experiences psychiatric or learning challenges, it's important not to keep them hidden. Ensure that the camp staff and counselors are informed about any relevant details to prevent issues and enhance their overall experience. Are they nervous in the water? Are they anxious around horses? Additionally, reassure your child that counselors are available to assist them, whether it's a simple question or a more significant concern.
Setting clear expectations and get excited!
Initiating a conversation with your child about what to anticipate at summer camp is important. They might feel anxious or apprehensive, especially if it is their first time going, so offering reassurance is key. Outline the daily activities, sleeping arrangements, schedule and how they'll interact with other campers. By doing so, you can enhance their comfort level and increase the likelihood of them enjoying the entire experience. This preparation ensures they will anticipate returning year after year.
Assist your child in embracing the excitement of camp, join them on a shopping trip for new gear and encourage them to look forward to the enjoyable aspects of camp. Encourage them to create a "bucket list" of activities to focus on while they're at camp, even if it's just for the day, to help steer their thoughts towards positivity rather than dwelling on any negative ones.
Encourage your children to make new friends
Summer camp offers a fantastic chance for kids to forge new friendships. Encourage your child to embrace meeting new people and engaging in activities together. Doing so will enrich their camp adventure, leaving them with cherished memories. It's an ideal opportunity for your child to socialize and expand their circle of friends while enjoying the summer to the fullest. If you went to summer camp yourself, feel free to share your own positive experiences of making and keeping friends from all over!
Manage your own separation anxiety and worries
Remember children are capable of coping with change and are resilient! Your worries about your child may not be reality so try not to project your own worries onto them. What you want to share with your child is your confidence in them and the overall positive summer experience.
Maintaining mental health and emotions is important. Rather than focusing on concerns about your child at camp, redirect that energy into productive tasks and projects at home to stay busy.
Your newfound free time can be utilized to:
Focus on your other children
Enhance quality moments with your partner
Focus on work
Enjoy other hobbies
It is expected you may be thinking about your kids and worried about their well being. Remind yourself that they are safe and probably having the time of their lives!
To further help you with your own separation anxiety during this time of change, check out our blog, “How To Feel Less Anxious About Change”.
Have confidence in your decision to send your kids to summer camp
Remembering why you made the decision to send them to summer camp is very helpful! Also recognize the research that went into choosing the right camp and making the decision, trust your judgment! Trusting the staff and your child is crucial when sending them off to summer camp. It's natural to worry about their well-being, but remember that camps often have experienced and trained staff who prioritize the safety and happiness of the campers.
Giving your child the opportunity to experience new environments and challenges can be incredibly beneficial for their personal growth and development. So, while it's important to stay informed and involved, it's equally important to have faith in the camp and your child's abilities to navigate their own experiences.
Send them off with a hug and item
Prior to sending your child off to summer camp, it's important to offer them a warm hug and goodbye. It is recommended that goodbyes shouldn’t linger for too long but it is important to do this and not to sneak off. This warm gesture communicates your love and support for their camp adventure. Additionally, leaving them with a heartfelt letter before their departure can be helpful for them to read when they miss you. Within it, you can convey your affection and encouragement, providing a cherished item for them to revisit in years to come.
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