Tips for Separation at Camp and Beyond

By Dana Rosenbloom, M.S. Ed., owner Dana’s Kids

Every year thousands of children prepare to go off to camp, school, daycare, or vacations without their trusty parent by their side. This means a separation for the first, second, or hundredth time. No matter the child, the situation, and the parent, separating can be tough. Here are some helpful tips that can ease this separation at camp and beyond:

– A child will be comfortable when a parent feels comfortable and prepared.

– Embrace the decision you have made to send your child to camp and convey any questions or concerns the camp director.

– Reflect on your child’s temperament when deciding how and when to prepare them. Some children like to know what their day will look like and thrive being able to visit a camp prior to starting. Other children should be prepared with brief information and firm, confident reassurance just a few days before camp begins.

– If you do talk about camp ahead of time, discuss the familiar, enticing and positive things they will see and do there.

– If your child is anxious, acknowledge their feelings and keep moving forward. Engage in dinner conversation, finish the bedtime routine, leave for camp, etc.

– Setup a goodbye routine prior to camp and include it when you say goodbye to your child.

– Find out the last activity of the day and remind your child that you will see them after that.

– When you say you are going to leave, it’s important to follow through and go.

– Make a big deal out of your reunion with your child. “I came back! I said I’d be here after (fill in the activity) and I’m here. I always come back!”

For more information about preparing your child for separation at camp and beyond:

  • Listen to the babybites’ teleclass from June 1, 2011, by clicking here.
  • Read a post on this topic on Dana’s blog.

If you have specific questions or concerns, you can contact Dana at [email protected], follow her on Twitter: djrkids, or post your questions on the Dana’s Kids Facebook page.

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