Is My Child Ready for Summer Camp?

How do we know when the time is right to send our children to summer camp?

Often the children themselves will start to express an interest in attending camp. The motivation may be inspired by a friend who has been to camp, they may have seen summer camp brochures or have seen and heard radio or television ads. Many parents and grandparents spark the interest when they reflect back on their own pleasant camp memories. Parents might start considering the option when they sense their kids are bored and restless during summer holidays.

Other kids fun experiences will be more compelling than what parents say

If you think camp is a good option for your child but you’ve never had the experience yourself you may want to enlist the help of another child who has attended camp to relate their experiences. Perhaps a friend or neighbor’s child who has been to camp can help your child appreciate what a fun time they had … we hate to admit it but kids give more credence to other kids when it comes to deciding what is fun and what’s not. Make it an informal get together and don’t force the subject, just lead the conversation in that direction and let the kids ask the questions … they will often reveal any concerns they may have and just as often the child who has been to camp will alleviate their misgivings and leave your child with a favorable outlook.

What if you think camp is a good idea but your child seems uninterested?

The key here is to find out the reasons that your child might be hesitant or wary about going away to camp. If your child does not show genuine interest in attending camp on their own you can bring up the subject in normal conversation asking something like: “your friend Bobby went to camp last summer and had fun, would you like to go this summer for a couple of weeks?”

The child’s response to your question might reveal why they are reluctant to go away to camp. Many young children are somewhat insecure about leaving home for an extended period for the first time. They could be anxious about meeting and making new friends or it could be as simple as the fact that they are not interested in the activities offerred. Whatever the reason make sure to address the concern because while it may seem trivial to you it is an important issue for the child.

As mentioned earlier having your child speak to another who has already experienced the fun of summer camp can do much to allay their concerns. Some camps allow visits when they are in session and this can be a big help in reducing anxiety and showing the child first hand and ahead of time the experience will be rewarding. Make sure that your child feels they are part of the decision making process rather than simply forcing the issue.