Harold Robert Meyer and The ADD Resource Center 05/27/2025
Transforming ADHD Challenges into Strengths
Preparing your child for their first sleepaway camp experience requires thoughtful planning that extends beyond simple packing lists. Research indicates that successful camp transitions involve preparing not just the camper, but also siblings who remain at home and parents who must navigate their own emotional responses115. The most effective preparation strategies focus on building independence, addressing anxiety proactively, and creating realistic expectations about the camp experience. Studies show that children who receive comprehensive preparation are significantly more likely to have positive camp experiences and develop lasting confidence411.
Sleepaway camp represents a crucial developmental milestone that can profoundly impact your child’s independence, social skills, and self-confidence. However, inadequate preparation can lead to premature camp departures, with homesickness being the primary reason children leave camp early810. The ripple effects extend throughout your family system—siblings may experience anxiety about separation, while parents often struggle with their own emotions about letting go18. Harold Meyer from the ADD Resource Center emphasizes that proper preparation is particularly crucial for children with attention differences, as structured preparation can significantly improve their camp success rates7.
Research from established camp organizations reveals several critical preparation elements that determine camp success:
Timing and Communication: Families should begin preparation conversations 2-3 months before camp starts, allowing children time to process and ask questions111.
Independence Building: Children who practice self-care skills at home demonstrate better adaptation to camp routines415.
Sibling Dynamics: Families with multiple children must consider whether siblings should attend the same camp or different programs based on their individual personalities and relationships18.
Parental Mindset: Your emotional approach significantly influences your child’s camp readiness—confident parents typically have more successful campers1.
Your preparation journey begins with creating positive anticipation rather than anxiety. Start by exploring your chosen camp’s website together, viewing photos, and reading about activities1. If possible, attend open houses or arrange pre-camp visits to familiarize your child with the physical environment912. This visual preparation helps reduce the fear of unknown surroundings that often contributes to homesickness.
Engage in “What Would You Do If” scenarios to help your child develop problem-solving skills8. For example, ask how they would handle losing their water bottle or feeling lonely during rest time. These role-playing exercises build confidence and provide mental frameworks for managing camp challenges.
Never dismiss your child’s worries as insignificant. Instead, create safe spaces for honest conversations about their concerns110. Common fears include not knowing where bathrooms are located, making friends, or sleeping in unfamiliar surroundings. Address each concern with specific information and practical solutions.
Importantly, avoid making promises you cannot keep, such as “I’ll come get you if you don’t like it”10. This well-intentioned reassurance actually undermines your child’s confidence and provides an easy escape route rather than encouraging perseverance through natural adjustment periods.
Camp success heavily depends on your child’s ability to manage basic self-care tasks independently. Begin practicing essential skills months before departure415:
Sleeping arrangements often present the biggest adjustment challenge for first-time campers. If your child typically sleeps alone, arrange practice sleepovers with friends or relatives well before camp20. However, research shows that sleepover success doesn’t necessarily predict camp success, as camp environments provide more structured support systems4.
Create familiarity with camp bedding by using sleeping bags or different pillows at home for several nights before departure12. Discuss what bedtime routines will look like at camp, emphasizing similarities to home routines while acknowledging differences.
Siblings remaining at home often experience their own form of separation anxiety, particularly if they’re close in age to the departing camper6. Acknowledge these feelings and create special plans for one-on-one time during the camp period. This focused attention helps siblings feel valued rather than forgotten.
For families considering sending multiple children to camp, evaluate whether they should attend together or separately18. Siblings who consistently get along and share interests may benefit from shared camp experiences, while those who compete or depend too heavily on each other might thrive better in separate environments.
Help siblings understand their important role in supporting the camper. Encourage them to contribute to preparation activities like helping pack or creating encouraging notes for the camp trunk8. This involvement transforms potential resentment into supportive participation.
Your emotional state significantly influences your child’s camp readiness. Children are remarkably perceptive and will mirror your anxieties about their camp experience111. Focus on expressing confidence in your child’s abilities while privately processing your own concerns with other adults.
Avoid discussing your worries in front of your child, as this can inadvertently increase their anxiety levels. Instead, emphasize your excitement about their upcoming adventures and your confidence in their ability to handle new challenges.
Prepare yourself for the emotional reality of drop-off day. Research shows that lengthy, emotional goodbyes often increase children’s distress116. Plan for brief, positive farewells that emphasize your excitement to hear about their experiences rather than your sadness about separation.
Many camps provide structured drop-off procedures designed to ease transitions for both children and parents5. Familiarize yourself with these procedures in advance and trust the camp staff’s expertise in managing these transitions.
Establish realistic communication expectations before camp begins. Many camps limit phone contact specifically because research demonstrates that frequent communication often prolongs homesickness rather than alleviating it11. Instead, focus on written communication like letters or emails, which allow children to process feelings without immediate pressure to respond.
Begin your camp planning early, as premier programs often reach capacity by March, and financial aid operates on first-come, first-served bases7. Investigate scholarship opportunities through camps themselves, community organizations like YMCA/YMHA/JCC, religious institutions, and specialized foundations like The Fresh Air Fund.
Consider payment strategies including Dependent Care FSA funds, extended payment plans, and multi-child discounts to make camp more financially accessible7.
While camps provide detailed packing lists, experienced camp families suggest several overlooked items19: extra sting cream and bug repellent, Tide To-Go sticks for laundry pre-treatment, clear containers for organizing small items, and towels with Velcro closures for easier shower management.
Most importantly, avoid packing items you care deeply about, as camp environments inevitably lead to lost or damaged belongings19. Focus on comfortable, practical items that help your child feel confident and prepared.
Disclaimer:
Our content is intended solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be viewed as a substitute for professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee that errors or omissions are absent. Our content may utilize artificial intelligence tools, which can result in inaccurate or incomplete information. Users are encouraged to verify all information independently.
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