Missing Home

Missing home is natural at any age and can usually be overcome. Our approach is to keep our campers engaged in fun, meaningful activities that keep campers present in the moment. We take every camper’s well-being seriously and and counselors are trained on a variety of methods that help campers navigate and overcome homesick feelings. Rest assured, if your camper’s homesickness significantly affects their camp experience, we will contact you.

Why Some Campers Miss Home

• Experience: Younger campers or those with little time away from home are more likely to miss home.
• Personality: Children who feel little control over emotions or are anxious may struggle more.
• Family: Parental anxiety, forced attendance, or major home stressors can increase homesickness.
• Attitude: Low expectations or negative first impressions can make adjustment harder.

Preparing Before Camp Can Help!

• Arrange sleepovers with family or friends to build confidence and independence.
• Share your own positive experiences away from home.
• Be realistic about the not-so-glamourous realities of summer camp such as shared living space, outdoor bathrooms, and communal meals.
• Help your child know what to expect: go over timelines, and let them know the counselors are here to help!
• Discuss that missing home is normal (and temporary!)
• Keep it upbeat! Avoid phrases like "I’ll cry the whole time you're gone" and instead emphasize that camp is a unique opportunity that they get to experience.
• Pack a cheerful photo from home or a letter to be opened on the first day.

The Dreaded Drop-Off

During drop off, keep goodbyes brief and positive. Long, emotional farewells make things harder for both you and your camper! Focus on the excitement and fun of going to camp.

During the Camp Session

Phone calls rarely help. Years of experience show that phone calls to or from home are not the solution, and in most cases only exacerbate negative feelings.

Receiving mail is a great way to help campers feel connected to home, especially if the content is upbeat and positive. Avoid topics that may make your child sad or worried. If your child writes to you about missing home, know that this is common and usually short-lived. If concerns persist, our staff will work with you to ensure your child feels supported.