First Time Camper

It is very common for first-time overnight campers to be nervous. In addition to our general recommendations list for preparing your child for camp, here is a more in-depth list of things you can do to help your child shake off the nerves of attending an overnight camp for the first time. 

1. Try Sleepovers

We highly recommend having your child experience sleeping away from home prior to their first time at overnight camp. Camp is a great place to get more comfortable with sleeping away from home, but it is not always the best place to try it for the first time. We recommend spending the night at a trusted friend’s house or spending a weekend at a relative's home to start.

2. Talk to them about the new feelings they may experience

It is very common for campers to experience homesickness, anxiety, or other unfamiliar feelings. Talking about these feelings, explaining that they are normal, and offering strategies to cope might help them to feel better can make a huge difference. Also, remind your camper that everyone who works at camp is there to help with these feelings. Our staff is trained to support your camper through this new experience and help them problem-solve when they are feeling homesick. Learning about these feelings beforehand can be very helpful!

3. Communicate your concerns with camp staff

We recommend letting your camper's cabin counselors know if you think your camper may get homesick. You camper’s counselors will appreciate the heads up and will keep an extra close eye for signs of homesickness.

4. Give them a couple of things to remind them of home

A photo, stuffed animal, drawing, or any small item that reminds them of home can help them get through feelings of homesickness. 

We encourage families to send snail mail! This is a great way for you to ask your camper questions about their time at camp, and in return, for your camper to share all the fun they're having! Pre-write a few letters and send them in the mail ahead of time or drop off a care package at check-in.

5. Avoid "The Promise"

Many parents tell their campers that they will come get them if they are not happy. We understand that it feels like the best thing to do at times, but the statement can send the message to your child that you don’t believe in their ability to succeed at camp. It also sets up unrealistic and low expectations about camp. These messages can make campers prepare themselves to have a bad time, instead of giving camp a chance, working through the hard feelings, and developing their sense of independence.

If a camper becomes deeply homesick to the point that they are unable to participate in camp activities, camp staff will communicate with parents/guardians to figure out a plan of action and how to best support their camper through their session.

Here at Camp Downer, we are committed to creating a fun, and safe environment for campers to experience overnight camp, and we are dedicated to helping campers want to return for another summer!