Summer is rapidly approaching and many parents are considering overnight camps for the first time for their children. Even though June is a month away, it is not too soon to think about preparing your child for being away from you.
“Overnight summer camps can be a great experience,” said Dr. Susan Hickman, local clinical psychologist. “However, just because you believe your child is old enough does not mean he is necessarily ready. For an extremely shy or anxious child who has never experienced an extended stay away from home, an overnight camp could be a more fearful than fun experience. The old fashioned “sink or swim” attitude can do more harm than good for a child who already has a shaky foundation. You do not want to supply your children with such a negative experience that future opportunities are forfeited.”
As you assess your child’s readiness Dr. Hickman suggests you first consider whether or not he wants to go away to camp. If you believe your child is ready and excited about the opportunity, the next step is engaging your child in every step of the process including selecting the camp to attend.
“I encourage parents to work with their child to find out about the camp, what type of activities will happen, how much free time is available, how much communication is allowed between child and parent, etc.,” said Dr. Hickman. “I also encourage parents to ask questions concerning the camp’s discipline policy, background checks on workers, training or required experience for staff and how closely children are supervised. The more information you have on the front end, the easier it will be on you and your child when he is away.”
If you have a shy or anxious child, consider sending him to camp with a neighborhood friend, sibling, church peer or school buddy. Going to camp with someone familiar can make camp less scary.
Once you have made the decision about which camp your child will attend begin the process of preparing them to make the most of the experience.
“Parents should be realistic about the camp experience including the fact that there will be highs and lows – it may not be fun all the time,” said Dr. Hickman. “Openly listen to and discuss any concerns your child may have. Know that while a child may be excited about camp, it is normal to have fears and concerns about new experiences, being away from you, meeting new kids, not being able to talk with you everyday, etc.”
Some children may be anxious about being cared for if they get sick or in the event of an emergency. It is helpful for parents to assure their child that the camp has specific contact information and training for dealing with these types of situations.
One thing Dr. Hickman says parents may not take into consideration is the fact that it isn’t just the children who experience separation anxiety.
“Sometimes parents are caught by surprise when they have feelings of anxiety as they leave their child for the week,” said Dr. Hickman. “This is normal. I encourage parents to talk with other parents who have already been through this process and to plan pleasurable activities for themselves in order to keep worrying to a minimum. This is a great opportunity for parents to have some much needed down time or to participate in activities in which they normally cannot indulge.”
Last, but certainly not least, when your child returns from camp a celebration is in order. Plan a special welcome home dinner or ice cream run where you can listen to your child tell you about their week, the highs and the lows. Don’t miss the opportunity to tell them how proud you are of them for making it through the entire week.
