SLEEPAWAY CAMP READINESS WHAT PARENTS SHOULD LOOK FOR By Shannon Dean T he camp brochure makes it all look so alluring––sunlit cabins, kids grinning with excited faces, and on the parent or primary caregiver looking carefully at the child’s readiness, which depends on the previous experience that child has had away from home.”
40 2026 | ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER age to skills, it becomes easier to see what truly matters: a unique blend of independence, confidence, social skills, and emotional strength. Dr. Chris Thurber, author of The Summer Camp Handbook, notes, “The age at which a young person might go to overnight camp for the first time depends a lot on their previous life experiences. It really is going to depend arms tossed around new best friends. It’s easy to picture your child there, soaking up independence and adventure. But then the doubts creep in. Are they really ready? What if they’re homesick? What if they can’t fall asleep without me? If you’re asking these questions, you’re in good company. Many parents worry about camp readiness for good reason. It’s a huge step. But camp readiness rarely comes down to the number on your child’s birthday cake. It’s much more about devel- opmental readiness. In fact, when parents shift the focus from
With that in mind, here is a developmental checklist to help you see the full picture: The Independence Index: Beyond Tying Shoes: A natural starting point is day-to- day self-care. Can your child handle the basics? Can they brush their teeth well, take a thorough shower (hair included), or change their clothes without constantly being reminded? What about maintaining a bit of order? Can your child keep track of their stuff or regularly tidy their space? Camp doesn’t require perfection, but it does require awareness and effort. Experts say that while camp counselors are supportive, they can’t be expected to be valets or housekeeping staff. A child who has practiced simple routines at home arrives feeling capable rather than overwhelmed.
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