Sending your child to camp for the first time is a milestone – for them and for you. It can spark excitement, pride, and independence, but it can also bring nerves, questions, and uncertainty.
From wondering whether they’ll make friends to worrying about homesickness, first-time camp jitters are completely normal. The good news is that with thoughtful preparation and the right mindset, parents can help set their child up for a positive, confidence-building experience.
Knowledge is power
One of the most effective ways to ease anxiety (both yours and your child’s) is to make the unknown feel familiar. Understanding what camp will look like day-to-day can go a long way toward building confidence.
Jessica Miller Switzer, executive director of the Alberta Camping Association, says it is important to familiarize your child with the camp's activities and routines.
“Address their concerns and discuss the positive aspects of the camp,” she says.
“Let your child know that it's normal to feel homesick, but those feelings usually fade as they become more immersed in camp activities.”
Many camps provide families with a welcome package that outlines what a typical day looks like, including mealtimes, activities, cabin routines, and special theme days your child can look forward to. Reviewing this information together helps children visualize their experience and gives them concrete details to hold onto.
Give them back control
One of the scariest things about a new situation is feeling like you are not in control.
You can help restore some of that sense of control by involving your child in the preparation process. Allow them to choose what they want to take with them and let them pack their own bags, with help from the camp’s required item list.
Jessica says it can be helpful to let them pack a comfort item like a favorite toy or family photo.
“Reassure them that it's normal to feel a bit anxious, and it's an opportunity for growth,” she says. “Small decisions, like choosing pajamas, picking a flashlight, or selecting a book, help children feel ownership over the experience and remind them that camp is something they’re actively participating in, not something that’s “happening to them.”
Build excitement
It’s natural to feel apprehension, especially if this is your child’s first time at camp. But how parents frame the experience can shape how children feel about it.
Jessica says it’s important to avoid expressing your own anxieties about separation to your child.
“Develop a positive attitude towards new experiences,” she adds. “Build excitement by creating a countdown to the camp start date.”
Marking days off on a calendar or talking about upcoming activities can shift the focus from worry to anticipation. You can also share positive stories or experiences from others who enjoyed camp.
“If you attended camp as a child, share your positive experiences to create a connection,” says Jessica. At the same time, it’s important to set realistic expectations. Discuss with the child that not every moment will be perfect, but challenges are opportunities to learn and grow. This balanced approach helps children understand that discomfort doesn’t mean failure and that resilience often comes from working through hard moments.
Find a friend
For many first-time campers, knowing at least one familiar face can make a big difference. Reach out to parents from your child’s school or neighborhood to see if others are attending the same camp. Most camps allow parents to request that children bunk with one or more friends.
Even with a buddy along, remind your child that camp is also a chance to meet new people. They’ll meet lots of other kids and make new friends, often in ways that feel easier and more natural than in everyday settings.
Set them up for success
Camp is about fun, but it’s also a powerful opportunity for growth. Taking time before the big send-off to build resilience and independence can pay off once your child arrives.
“Encourage decision-making and problem-solving skills to boost your child's independence,” says Jessica.
This can be as simple as involving your child in solving a small family challenge, such as managing overlapping extracurricular schedules.
Social skills are also an important part of the camp experience. Campers spend extended time with children from many different backgrounds.
“Talk to your child about making new friends and being inclusive,” says Jessica.
“Roleplay social situations to boost their confidence.”
Know when to go
When drop-off day arrives, timing matters. Once your child is settled, it’s best to say goodbye and leave. Lingering can make separation harder for everyone. A confident, cheerful farewell helps set a positive tone and allows your child to begin bonding with counsellors and fellow campers.
After camp, take time to talk about what your child learned, enjoyed, and accomplished.
“Celebrate their achievements and growth during camp,” says Jessica.
Learn more at albertacamping.com.
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