While homesickness is a normal part of the camp experience, the separation can be hard on parents, too. Here are a few tips to help you cope.
Acknowledge in a positive way that you will miss your child. You can say to them, "I will miss you, but I know you’ll have a good time."
Don’t let your anxiety rub off on your kid. If your child realizes how anxious or upset you are that they will be gone, he or she may feel they need to be concerned as well and may be more likely to become homesick.
Don’t go into panic mode if you receive a homesick letter. Homesick letters are extremely common, especially during the first few days a child is away.
Don’t worry if your child hasn’t sent you a letter. It’s much more likely for kids who are homesick to write home than the kids who are busy having fun. If you haven’t received a letter, they’re probably too busy being involved.
Honor any no-phone policies your child’s camp may have. It is often helpful in building confidence and independence in your child. Talking with family members often triggers homesickness in campers.
And, most importantly, follow your own advice. You’ve probably told your children that if they feel homesick, talking to other campers and joining in activities will help take their minds off it. With the kids off at camp, you have more time to do things you normally don’t. Go take a new fitness class. Call a friend you don’t normally get to talk to. Keep busy!
