Ready for Camp? How To Make Your Child’s First Overnight Camp Experience a Success

Every parent wants his or her child’s first overnight camping experience to be successful and a springboard into many other positive experiences.

Age is one factor to consider, but emotional maturity, interest in camp, and level of personal independence are also key indicators. Some children are ready for camp at the age of five or six (finishing kindergarten), but others are more successful if they wait until the ages of eight to ten years old.

Much depends on the child and the parents. I’ve seen many children who would like to attend camp, but mom and dad are not ready. The reverse is also true.

Take your cue from your children. In many cases, they’re able to determine their readiness before a parent does. If they’re interested and excited about the possibility, it’s a good chance they’re ready. Always involve your child in the decision making process. Look over the camp brochure with your child and visit the website to gauge their enthusiasm.

Questions to Consider

• Has your child spent a night or two with a friend or relative? Children who have been away from parents are more likely to be good candidates for an overnight camp experience. If they are uncomfortable spending one night at a friend’s house without calling you, they are not ready for overnight camp.If your child is interested but hesitant, sometimes it is helpful to see if any of his or her friends are also attending, which will provide more security at the beginning. If possible, a visit or tour of the camp will help familiarize your child with the site, dining room, and cabins, which will also provide more security on the first day.
• How responsible and independent is your child? Can he keep track of his own things, tie his shoes, and change his clothes. Is he able to seek help from other adults or authority figures? There are always counselors and adults available at camp to help, guide, and mentor, but there will be less one-on-one attention than when dealing with just mom or dad.

Even if you were eager to go to overnight camp at the age of nine, it doesn’t necessarily mean your child will be too.

Setting Your Child Up for Success

Consider sending your child for a shorter session for his first time at overnight camp. First time campers should be able to find a program that has a five to ten day session. Leave your child hungry for more by not overdoing it and make that first experience a success.

While your child is at camp, your correspondence with her by letter or email should be upbeat and positive. Use statements like, “I know you’re having a great time,” and/or “Hoping you’re making lots of new friends and having fun!”

Never promise your child that you will pick him or her up if homesick. Homesickness is normal and you want to set your child up for success. Reassure your child that you will be there on closing day and can’t wait to see and hear all about camp. If you are concerned about homesickness, discuss it with the camp director and see how the camp staff handles those situations.

Camp creates a safe environment for growth and great memories for you and your child. With good preparation and timing, your child’s first overnight stay should be a valuable growth experience.

Will your child go to Summer camp this year? How did you decide when they were ready? Love to hear your comments!

By Grant Bullard for www.sixtysecondparent-wnc.com – Grant is the Director of Gwynn Valley Camp, which is located in Brevard, NC, and accredited by the American Camp Association.

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