“Camp is a place where friends are made, memories are created, and dreams take flight” -Unknown
Camp, ready or not?! I was excited to write about this topic, yet felt a little out of place as I am a mom of an almost 8 year old and a 4 year old, so we have not navigated overnight camp, yet. From a developmental/emotional standpoint I am familiar with when to know if your child is ready to be away for several nights, but wanted to provide information from mom friends who have already taken this journey. SPECIAL thanks to a few of you (you know who you are-wink wink) who provided input, because as we all know, every kid is different! I am hopeful this information will be helpful to any mom who is wondering if their child may or may not be ready for overnight camp! Below are some valuable thoughts to consider as you navigate this sensitive topic.
Signs they are likely ready:
-show age appropriate responsibility with personal hygiene
-have had a successful sleepover in the past
-feels confident to be away from parents
-is trusting of others adult chaperones
-is excited to be with friends
-they trust themselves, even with a healthy amount of anxiety
-have had a successful night with a babysitter putting them to bed
-is flexible in navigating new situations
-independent
Ways to prep before overnight camp:
-spend the night with a friend of a trusted parent or other family member, such as a grandparent
-try day camp (GREAT idea!)
-practice packing their luggage (this gives them some control and makes it fun)
-make sure medical needs are able to be managed, if necessary
What to do to help ease some nerves even if they are ready:
-put encouraging notes in their luggage (I thought this was SO sweet of one mama who did this!)
-if it’s an overnight camp and you happen to know a parent chaperone, see if they can update you from time to time (HUGE plus if this is possible!)
-possibly have a friend/cousin/sibling who is going (gives them a sense of security knowing they aren’t alone)
-go through logistics of what overnight camp is and means; allow them to be a part of the process whether that means watching a virtual tour, reading a pamphlet, or talking to others who have been before.
-talk through safety concerns or how to ask for help, if/when needed.
The truth is, sometimes us as parents are more worried for our kid than they are. Trust yourself and your kids, parents! At the end of it all, it truly depends on your child. After talking to other moms, it seems a lot of kids are ready by ages 7-9, yet some will be ready sooner or later. Open conversation around the subject is key; kids typically like to have a sense of control and this can help with such a new and BIG transition. Sometimes gently pushing them to go can be so effective with combating their anxiety. It can allow them to build their confidence, simply by being away from parents overnight!
Remember to hold on tight – overnight camp is just the beginning of letting go and allowing your (not so little one) to fly!
