reported feeling homesick at some point.
Independence also shows up in how they handle small setbacks. When they spill a drink, do they instantly seek an adult, or do they go find a paper towel on their own? Those small moments of initiative offer big clues about readiness. Are They Socially Ready?: While indepen- dence matters, social readiness plays an equally important role. Overnight camp is one long group project, with shared cab- ins, shared meals, and shared activities. Social readiness isn’t just about having friends. It’s about navigating constant interaction. Think about your child’s ability to compro- mise, share, take turns, and bounce back after conflict. Kids who can weather minor social bumps tend to thrive in camp. In fact, a study in the Journal of Applied De- velopmental Psychology found that chil- dren with stronger social problem-solving skills were not only happier at camp but also felt less lonely. It’s also helpful to consider how your child views new experiences. If their fear of missing out on what their friends at home are doing outweighs their excitement for adventure, camp may feel more stressful than fun. Conversely, a child who lights up at novelty is often ready to dive right in. Finally, observe their general coping style. When they face something tough, do they try again, or do they shut down quickly? Camp strengthens resilience, but that growth starts with being able to tolerate small frustrations, like missing the bulls- eye in archery, navigating cabin disagree- ments, or learning a challenging new skill. The Emotional Resilience Meter: Antici- pating Homesickness: Even mature kids feel shaky at times, and experts say that homesickness at camp is very normal. In one study, 83% of sleepaway campers
ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER | 2026 41 Ultimately, sending your child to sleep- away camp is an act of trust––trust in them, in the camp, and in the growth that comes from stepping into something new. When they come home taller (figuratively, or maybe literally) and bursting with sto- ries, you’ll know the decision was worth it. Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, co-author of The Whole-Brain Child, encourages parents to reflect on whether their concerns are rooted in their child’s discomfort or their own. She explains that children build true resilience with “the right kind of adversity with the right kind of support” ––exactly what the right camp can provide. If You’re Still Unsure: If you’re still on the fence, there are ways to ease into camp, like: •Try a shorter session. Some camps offer three or four-day beginner programs that give kids the full experience without the long separation. •Invite a friend to sign up too. A familiar face can soften the transition and boost confidence. The goal isn’t to avoid homesickness. It’s to equip your child to handle it. Think about their past experiences away from home. Have they regularly spent the night at Grandma’s or had sleepovers with friends? These “practice separations” build confidence. Another key factor is your own readiness. Children read their parents’ emotional temperature with startling accuracy. If you’re anxious, they will be too. •Try a day camp with an optional over- night. Even one night away can be a great test run.
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online