The Simple Life

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• Listen to, and for, your child's concerns about camp. If he or she has questions, answer them simply and honestly. Acknowledge that feelings of nervousness and missing the routines of home are normal.
• Discuss camp with your child in a positive manner frequently before she leaves. Noting all the plusses of camp, including meeting new friends, learning new skills, being outdoors and just having a summer full of adventure and independence will build your child's confidence and eagerness to attend camp.
• If your child has never spent the night away from home, arrange overnights with friends to prepare him or her for sleeping away from mom and dad.
• Consider that your child may be extremely shy about undressing and showering in front of others at camp. Find out if your camp of choice has communal showers or dressing rooms. If so, be sure to prepare your child beforehand. To reduce this stress before her or she goes off to camp, take your child to a community pool or gym locker room to let him or her see what these communal situations are like.
• Familiarize your child with his or her travel schedule and arrangements for arriving at camp, especially if travel to the camp is independent train by public transport.
• Come up with ways to help your child deal with potential homesickness. For example, bury a surprise family photo in your child's "to-camp" gear with the words, "See you next week. Have a great time" written on the back. Even something as simple as adding a package of his or her favorite candy or snack will make your child feel special and cared for.
• Finally, remember to plan special time for yourself, with other children or with your spouse or friends while your child is away at camp. You all deserve to gain from this break in routine!

Peggy Middendorf is a parent of two and editor of a regional parenting magazine. Contact Peggy at middendorf@mindspring.com.