How Parents Can Help Kids Prepare for Their First Sleepaway Camp
Sending your child to sleepaway camp for the first time is a big step—for both you and your child. While it’s a chance for growth, independence, and fun, it can also bring anxiety, especially for kids who have never been away from home. At Sunrise Counseling in Dallas, Texas, we understand how emotional this milestone can be. With the right preparation, your child can have a positive and memorable experience.
Here are some tips to help your child get ready for sleepaway camp—emotionally, mentally, and practically.
1. Normalize the Nerves
It’s completely normal for kids (and parents) to feel nervous before camp. Let your child know that it’s okay to feel scared or unsure. Share stories from your own childhood or talk about other kids who’ve gone to camp and had a great time. Validating their feelings helps them feel seen and supported.
For help managing emotions, visit our page on Child Counseling Services.
2. Start Practicing Independence at Home
To help your child feel more confident about being away from home:
Encourage them to sleep over at a relative’s or friend’s house.
Have them pack their own bag for short outings.
Teach them how to manage basic self-care tasks, like brushing teeth or making their bed.
Building independence before camp eases the transition and boosts self-esteem.
3. Get Them Involved in the Packing Process
Involve your child in packing for camp. Let them help choose their clothes, toiletries, and comfort items like a favorite stuffed animal or family photo. Familiar items can reduce homesickness and make camp feel a little more like home.
Tip: Use the camp’s packing list as a guide and label everything.
4. Talk About What to Expect at Camp
Kids fear the unknown. The more they understand what camp will be like, the less anxious they’ll feel. Look at the camp’s website together, review the daily schedule, talk about activities, and explain what camp counselors do.
If possible, attend an open house or meet-the-counselors day. Seeing the camp beforehand can make it feel less intimidating.
5. Address Separation Anxiety
If your child tends to struggle with separation anxiety, start preparing several weeks in advance. Try gradual separation activities and affirm that they are safe even when you’re not right there. You can also write them letters in advance to read at camp.
At Sunrise Counseling in Dallas, our licensed therapists work with children who experience separation anxiety and help families build strategies for success.
6. Create a Positive Send-Off Ritual
Saying goodbye at drop-off can be emotional. Keep your goodbye short, upbeat, and confident—even if you’re feeling teary inside. Kids often mirror their parents’ emotions. A confident goodbye gives them permission to enjoy the experience.
7. Avoid Rescue Plans
It’s tempting to say, “If you don’t like it, we’ll come pick you up,” but this can undermine their confidence. Instead, reassure them that they can handle it—and that you believe in their ability to have fun, make friends, and try new things.
When to Seek Extra Support
If your child has intense fears about going to sleepaway camp or has a history of anxiety, consider reaching out to a licensed child therapist. At Sunrise Counseling in Dallas, Texas, we offer supportive counseling for kids and parents navigating transitions like summer camp, school changes, and other emotional challenges.
You can contact us here to learn more or book a consultation.
Final Thoughts
Your child’s first time at sleepaway camp is a major milestone—one that can lead to growth, confidence, and lifelong memories. With empathy, preparation, and emotional support, you can help them step into this new experience with courage.
If you’re in the Dallas area and want help navigating parenting challenges, contact Sunrise Counseling in Dallas, Texas today. We’re here to support your family.
1. Contact Sunrise Counseling
2. Meet with one of our caring therapists
Mental Health Services at Sunrise Counseling in Dallas, TX
Sunrise Counseling offers a variety of mental health services in our Dallas TX-based therapy office and offers telehealth therapy to those residing in Texas and Colorado. Mental health services we provide at Sunrise Counseling include: