Is my child ready for an Overnight Camp Experience?

Written by Krista Van Weezep

Overnight Camp is a significant and exciting milestone in a child’s life, offering numerous benefits. It can boost confidence, foster relationships, provide joy, and give your child an opportunity to make lasting memories. There are so many positive aspects to the camp experience, but for many parents it can feel like a big step. You might be asking yourself, “how do I know if my child is ready?” You might not even be sure if you’re ready. From our experience, a child’s first time at Overnight Camp is often harder for the parent. Each child’s readiness varies, and some may adjust more quickly than others. As you navigate this decision, we want to highlight a few things that may indicate your child is ready for their first stay at Overnight Camp.

One of the first signs that a child might be ready for Overnight Camp is their interest and curiosity. Perhaps they have a friend or older sibling who went last summer, or you’ve shared stories about your own camp experiences and now they are showing excitement and asking questions about having their own camp adventure. They might have a mix of emotions, which is completely normal, but if their enthusiasm and curiosity is more prominent than anxious thoughts, that’s a good sign. Encourage them to share any concerns or expectations, and keep the communication open!

A child’s independence is an important factor to consider when deciding if they are ready for Overnight Camp. This independence can show up in their ability to problem solve, manage simple routines, and complete basic personal hygiene tasks (such as using the washroom, brushing teeth, and changing clothes). While at camp, helpful staff will be there to assist with supportive reminders, but a child who can handle these things without assistance is generally more prepared for the experience. Keep in mind, your child will grow and develop more as camp draws closer. Continue encouraging them in their independence to build their confidence and prepare them for their time away from home.

If your child is able to successfully spend the night away from home, it is a good indicator that they might be ready for camp. Children who have had sleepovers with friends, family, or babysitters are often better equipped to manage homesickness or separation anxiety if it occurs. It is completely normal for children to have these types of feelings while away from home for extended periods, especially in a new environment. It is always a good idea to encourage them to be open about their feelings, and to reassure them that it’s okay to feel this way. Cabin leaders are trained in supporting and comforting campers through these feelings. Homesickness will often lessen as a child becomes more engaged in camp activities, and becomes more familiar with their cabin leader and peers. If your child is apprehensive about their time away from home, we recommend packing a comforting item, like a favourite stuffy or family photo. Cabin leaders are always happy to know if a special item has been packed with the camper so that they can remind the camper that they have it with them.

Overnight Camp is filled with fun experiences and a variety of activities, with campers following a structured schedule. It is beneficial if your child is capable of following instructions and shifting between activities. We provide support as needed for campers to feel engaged in the program. Evaluating how your child handles structure while in school, church, or family outings is a great way to decipher how they will handle their participation in the programming at Overnight Camp.

Camp is a social environment where your child will have the opportunity to interact with many new peers. If your child has strong social skills they are more likely to initiate conversation, form friendships, feel confident in group settings, and handle conflict if it does arise. Cabin leaders are there to assist campers by modeling behavior, and showing them how to communicate with one another. Many camp activities require collaboration, and kids with good social skills can work effectively in groups, enhancing their overall experience. Keep in mind that kids are continually developing their social abilities, and many parents have shared that their child’s camp experience served as a significant catalyst for social growth. 

Junior Camp at Forest Cliff

is a great introductory option for those in grades 1-3. This is a three day program that allows campers to become comfortable and grow in their independence while still getting to enjoy the experience of Overnight Camp. As you reach your final decision, take the time to communicate openly with your child. Assess their comfort level, and walk through their feelings and expectations together. To familiarize yourself and your child with what camp is like, join us at the Forest Cliff Open House in June and check out our experience overview videos online (link). We hope you feel confident in registering for a memorable overnight session at Forest Cliff Camp. As always, if you have any questions about our experiences, feel free to get in touch!