According to the American Camp Association, with approximately 12,000 camps throughout the United States, each year more than 11 million children and parents benefit from a summer camp experience. For most youngsters, it is a fun and rewarding time, with both physical and emotional benefits, but for some the thought of leaving and being away from home can induce anxiety.

“Summer camp can be a platform for emotional growth and developmental transition in a child’s life,” said Dr. Larry Rosenberg, Clinical Director of the Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut. “In some ways it serves as a microcosm of adult society where children become independent, make friends, build self confidence and learn skills that will enrich their lives.”

The Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut, a non-profit mental health resource serving children, teenagers, and their families, offers the following tips to help parents ensure a full and rewarding camp experience and to deal with anxiety-related issues that may arise:

• Involve children in camp selection and preparation – This will help make sure that the camp will match the child’s personality, temperament and interests. The more involved they are, the less likely they are to experience fear or anxiety.
• Avoid potential negative experiences – Encouraging children to try new things is beneficial, forcing them is not. Pushing children into situations where they feel frightened or uncomfortable can take a toll on their self-esteem.
• Anticipate fears and start a conversation – Talking about what to expect will help reduce a child’s anxiety even before camp begins. Ask about specific fears and together form a game plan to address them, for example, packing extra clothes if bedwetting is an issue.
• Problems with other campers – If your child having issues with other campers, encourage him or her to work it out themselves before you intervene. Remember, part of camp is about learning how to deal with new people and new situations.
• Homesickness – This is a normal reaction, especially for first time campers. Criticizing children or telling them to “muscle” through it can sometimes make them feel worse. It is better to be supportive, reassuring and consistent. For most children, these feelings will pass in a few days, once they begin to have fun in their new surroundings.

The fact is that most children enjoy camp, keep in touch with their summer friends and look forward to it year after year. Use of these tips, along with careful planning and preparation can help ensure a positive experience.