Summer Camp Blues

The front page of the Tulsa World newspaper today was filled with images of the weekend ice storm in Oklahoma. Inside, however, was a great article about fighting homesickness at camp. The key, according to a study published in the American Academy of Pediatrics, is the parents' role in preparing their son or daughter before camp. Here are five key points quoted from the article by Lisa Smith:

1. Involve children in the decision to spend time away from home, so that the child has a sense of control.
2. Tell children that homesickness is normal, but that they can use strategies such as writing letters home, sharing their feelings with other people and thinking about the benefits of camp to help.
3. Parents should arrange for a practice time away from home before camp.
4. Don't make a pick-up plan or "a deal" with a child to bring him home if he doesn't like the experience of being away. This undermines the child's sense that a parent has confidence in his ability to be on his own.
5. Don't make negative or anxious comments about the separation to children.

In my experience, number four has been a common pitfall among anxious parents and campers. The key is to recognize your role as a parent in setting your son up for a successful summer away from home. If you are a first time camp parent, or even if your son is an old-timer, this is some great advice.