Summertime is a season of excitement and adventure for children, and for many, attending summer camp is a much-anticipated milestone. While camp offers opportunities for growth, fun and new friendships, it also comes with emotional challenges.
Tessa Truxillo, NP, with Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health offers essential tips to ensure your child’s camp experience is safe and enjoyable.
Preparing for Homesickness
Homesickness is a common experience for many children heading to camp for the first time. Truxillo suggests addressing this proactively by discussing the range of emotions your child might encounter.
By talking about these feelings beforehand, you help normalize them and make your child feel understood and supported. Reassure your child that it’s okay to miss home and that these feelings will pass as they get involved in camp activities.
The Comfort of Home
Packing a comfort item from home can be incredibly soothing for young campers (and even those who are older, returning campers).
Whether it’s a favorite stuffed animal, a family photo or a cherished blanket, having a familiar object can provide a sense of security and ease the transition into the new camp environment. This small touch of home can make a big difference in helping your child feel more at ease.
Dealing with Kid-Sickness as a Parent
While children may experience homesickness, parents often deal with “kid-sickness” – the anxiety or sadness of being separated from their child.
Truxillo advises parents to stay positive both when preparing for camp and at drop-off. Your attitude can significantly influence your child’s feelings about camp. Displaying confidence and excitement can help your child feel more secure about the adventure ahead.
Remember, it’s important to give your child the space to grow and enjoy their camp experience independently.
By preparing both emotionally and practically, you can help ensure that summer camp is a positive and enriching experience for your child.
