It’s that time of year again for parents to figure out what to do wih their children during the summer months when most schools are not in session.
At summer camps, kids play sports, particpate in water activities, arts & craft, campfires and…homesickness. Yes, the bad news is kids do get homesick at camp. The good news is homesickness is a natural part of the camping experience and is not really a bad thing. Camp is all about accomplishments, getting to know other kids and doing things for the first time. There are times when kids begin to wonder what Mom, Dad and the dog are doing back at home. It’s not easy for parents to hear the homesick voice when the kids call them. Handling homesickness is one of the most important task for camp directors.
A parent’s naural response is to try and keep their children from experiencing negative emotions. This response holds them back from personal growth. When kids learn to work through feelings of homesickness with the help of trained and caring camp staff, they experience growth and transformation. Enjoying planned daily activities with new friends and trying new things cause children to grow in ways that surprise their parents and well as themselves. Kids who are away from the parents can be scared and successful, homesick and happy.
Here are a few tips tips on how to lower the chances of your children becoming homesick at summer camp:
Make sure they are ready. A good rule of thumb is most 8 and 9 years are ready for overnight camp if they have been okay spending some nights away from home.
Have them choose the camp. If you involve the child in the camp selection process, it is likely they will enjoy the camp that is selected.
Sign up with a friend if they want. If your child has a friend or two that wants to go to camp with them, talk to the parents and coordinate signing them up together. Having a friend at an overnight camp can make a world of difference.
Be positive at drop-off. Be happy and composed while saying goodbye and stay away from putting ideas of homesickness in their head.
Write letters instead of calling. Talking with your child over the phone will increase the likeliness of homesickness. The best think to do is write letters to them.
Remember that being homesick at an overnight camp is just part of growing up. Don’t panic! Your child simply misses the things he loves about being at home. They will be stronger at the end of the camp.
