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The calendar flips to summer, and suddenly, your child’s first sleepaway camp is just around the corner. Your little adventurer is heading off for their first big solo experience. It’s exciting, emotional, and, let’s be honest, just a tiny bit terrifying. For them, it’s the thrill of new friends, campfires, and bunk beds. For you, it might feel like you’re prepping them for a moon mission.
But don’t worry with the right preparation, those pre-camp jitters can turn into confidence. Here’s how to make sure both the child and you are ready for their big summer adventure.
Step 1: The Mental Prep – Easing Those Butterflies
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Paint the Picture: Talk about camp like it’s the start of an epic quest while sharing your own childhood camp tales. If your child has never been away from home, try a trial sleepover at a relative’s or friend’s house.
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Normalize the Nerves: It’s perfectly okay to feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Acknowledge those emotions with empathy: “It’s normal to feel a little nervous—even the bravest campers do at first!”
Step 2: The Packing List – Less Is More (But Not Too Little)
The Essentials: Most camps provide a packing list, but here are the universal must-haves. Turn packing into a fun event with music, snacks, and a suitcase full of possibilities. Create a checklist and involve your child. Knowing where their flashlight and favorite socks are gives them a sense of control.
Essentials usually include:
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Sturdy clothes for all weather (including a rain jacket and warm layers)
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Comfortable shoes and sandals
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Multiple sets of socks and undergarments
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Bathing suits, towels, and sunscreen
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Sleeping bag, pillow, and a favorite blanket or stuffed animal
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Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo)
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Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
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Reusable water bottle
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Any required medications, clearly labeled
Pro Tip: Label everything. Even socks. Especially socks.
The "Don’t Overpack" Rule: Kids will definitely lose things, so pack enough for the session, but don’t send their entire wardrobe. Roll clothes to save space and avoid wrinkles.
Add Comfort Items: A favorite book, a family photo, or a small keepsake can offer comfort on homesick nights.
Step 3: The Emotional Prep – Goodbyes Without the Drama
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The Drop-Off Strategy: Keep farewells short and sweet. Lingering only increases anxiety. A confident hug, with a cheerful “You’re going to have so much fun!” and a positive exit work best.
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The Communication Plan: Check the camp’s policies. Most discourage phone calls, as homesickness tends to spike after hearing a parent’s voice. Letters or care packages, however, are camp gold.
Fun idea: Pre-write a few notes or jokes for your child to open during their stay.
Step 4: The Homesickness Game Plan
Pre-Camp Pep Talk: Remind your child that homesickness is normal and temporary. Offer simple coping strategies:
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“When you miss home, dive into an activity!”
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“Find a buddy—chances are someone else feels the same way.”
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“We’ll be right here when you get back!”
Trust the Counselors: Camp staff are trained pros. They’ll keep your child engaged, supported, and having so much fun that homesickness barely stands a chance.
Step 5: The Parent Survival Guide
Stay Busy: The first 24 hours are the hardest for you. Plan something fun: a movie night, dinner out, or that hike you’ve been putting off.
Practice Independence at Home: In the weeks before camp, encourage your child to handle small tasks independently, like making their bed, organizing their belongings, and packing their backpack. Even choosing their outfit builds confidence.
The Big Day: Drop-Off and Goodbyes
When it's finally time to say goodbye, stay upbeat. Offer smiles instead of tears, and remind your camper of all the excitement that lies ahead. A confident goodbye helps them feel secure about their new adventure.
Summary:
A child’s first sleepaway camp is more than just a summer getaway—it’s a milestone of growth, resilience, and independence. With thoughtful preparation, open conversations, and a well-packed bag, you’ll help set the stage for a summer they’ll never forget.
And when they come back—sun-kissed, confident, and full of stories—you’ll both realize just how much growing happened in those few short days.
Camp doesn't have to end with the summer. To help your child keep that spirit of exploration alive all year long, platforms like Wondrfly offer incredible extracurricular activities for kids, from drama classes to coding boot camps, making every day a new adventure.
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