How Do I Know If My Child is Ready for Overnight Camp?
Tips and Encouragement from a Mental Health Perspective
1. Why Overnight Camp?
• Camp fosters independence, confidence, and lifelong friendships.
• Kids develop resilience by stepping out of their comfort zones and navigating new experiences and environments.
• The fun, structured activities boost overall mental health and emotional growth.
• Camp instills a variety of essential values, including tolerance, mutual respect, perseverance, teamwork, and empathy.
2. Preparing Your Child for Success at Camp
• PRACTICE INDEPENDENCE
Encourage your child to manage basic tasks, like packing a bag, choosing their clothes, or tidying their space.
• START SMALL
Plan sleepovers with friends or family to help them adjust to being away from home.
• TALK ABOUT IT
Share positive stories about camp, and encourage your child to share their hopes and worries.
• VISIT THE CAMP
If possible, visit the camp or explore their website to make the environment feel familiar.
• PARTNER WITH CAMP STAFF
Meet with the staff and consider connecting with members of the camp’s care and resource team, especially if your child receives services at home.
• MEDICATION
If your child takes medication during the year, camp may not be the best time to stop; consult with the camp staff and your child’s doctor before making any changes.
3. Building Emotional Readiness
• Teach simple coping skills for homesickness, like deep breathing or positive-self talk. For more ideas, reach out to the camp’s care and resource team.
• Create a “comfort kit” with photos, notes, or small reminders of home.
• Reassure your child that it’s normal to miss home and that adjusting can feel challenging at first, but that those feelings usually fade as they make friends and have fun.
4. Encouraging Social Growth
• Practice conversation starters and role-play making new friends.
• Emphasize the joy of teamwork and shared adventures in camp activities.
• Highlight how camp provides a safe space to try new things and build confidence.
• Remind your child that they’ve faced challenges before and persevered, showing their strength and resilience.
• Help your child embrace the value of teamwork and adaptability, understanding that things may not always go their way.
5. Supporting Physical and Mental Well-being
• Talk about the camp’s daily schedule so your child knows what to expect.
• Reassure your child that camp counselors are there to help with any concerns.
• Pack any comfort items or tools your child uses to manage anxiety, like fidget toys, earplugs, a weighted blanket, or doodle journal.
REMEMBER:
Every child is different, and readiness looks unique for everyone. Here’s how you can encourage your child:
• FRAME CAMP POSITIVELY: Focus on the exciting opportunities rather than fears.
• SET GOALS TOGETHER: Ask your child what they hope to learn or experience at camp.
• CELEBRATE MILESTONES: Whether it’s a successful sleepover or learning a new skill, recognize your child’s progress!
With thoughtful preparation and a focus on their well-being, your child is more likely to thrive at camp - turning it into an unforgettable adventure!
For more information about how to support those struggling with their mental health, please visit www.noshameonu.org. This resource is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. www.noshameonu.org