At their first camp, and sometimes at subsequent camps, there is a chance that a participant will feel homesick, and that’s okay, it’s completely natural. It’s essential that, as families or responsible individuals, we have a conversation with our children about this before they arrive at summer camp. Although there is no single method, here are some tips that we as a team have found to work: Talking about feeling homesick and how to be okay Let them know that they can have a lot of fun while feeling homesick. We can explain that it is a feeling that won’t last forever and the pride they will feel after their time at camp for having risen to this challenge. Rehearse before you go out Organize outings to relatives’ or acquaintances’ houses in the days before. It’s a good idea to spend time away from home before summer camp starts and, above all, talk about it afterwards: how did you feel? Did you feel homesick? How did you handle that feeling? Comment on who they can talk to if they feel homesick. It’s best not to let that feeling linger throughout the day and wait until the lights go out at the end of the day. The sooner our team of group leaders know, the quicker they can make sure you have someone to talk to about your feelings. Sometimes a coping method is to keep you busy and engaged, so they can make sure you’re fully integrated into activities. For some children, talking to their family back home is all they need to get some positive encouragement; however, for other children, the situation can get worse. Although we will know the participants well by the end of their stay, no one knows them better than you. If your child is feeling homesick, trust our team to use our knowledge and experience. We will always seek to do the best for each and every one of them. Be strong as parents Hearing that our son or daughter is feeling down on the other end of the phone can be frustrating. We need you to trust the team, our instincts, and our experience. On a Sunday night, it’s not unusual to have a couple of homesick kids, and usually after a fun, activity-filled day on a Monday, home is a distant memory (sorry, families). The worst thing we can say to a child is, “I’ll come get you on Wednesday if you don’t handle it.” Try to take it day by day. And if you’re a little worried about your kids going to camp, don’t let them see it. We don’t want to create any doubts in their minds. Talk about how excited you are about this adventure they’re going to have, how you wish you had the opportunity to do so, etc. During their stay, they will have a wonderful time participating in activities, overcome obstacles, and return more independent than when they arrived.
