The Biggest Fears Parents Have About Sleepaway Camp

March 19, 2025

The Biggest Fears Parents Have About Sleepaway Camp (And Why They Shouldn’t Worry)

Aaron Munoz

Thinking About Sending Your Kid to Camp? Let’s Talk About What’s Holding You Back.

You’re excited about the idea of sleepaway camp for your child. You’ve heard about the lifelong friendships, the confidence-building, and the incredible experiences they’ll have.

But if we’re being honest? You’re also a little nervous.

What if they hate it? What if they get homesick? What if they don’t make any friends?

You’re not alone, every parent has these fears before sending their child to camp. The good news? We’ve seen thousands of kids thrive, even the ones whose parents were 100% convinced they “weren’t ready.”

Let’s break down the biggest fears parents have about camp, and why you don’t have to worry.

Fear #1: “What if my child gets homesick?”

📌 The reality: Homesickness is normal—but it doesn’t last.
Most kids feel a little homesick at first. But within 24-48 hours, they’re so busy having fun that they don’t have time to miss home.

How we handle it:
✅ Counselors are trained to support homesick campers without making it worse.
✅ A full schedule of activities keeps them distracted & engaged.
✅ Bunkmates become family fast, making camp feel like a second home.

Read one of our latest blogs on how we help campers overcome homesickness at camp.

Fear #2: “What if they don’t make any friends?”

📌 The reality: Camp friendships form faster than school friendships.
Why? Because campers live, play, and grow together 24/7.

How we handle it:
✅ Icebreakers & team-building on day one (so no one feels left out).
✅ Camp traditions bond kids instantly—whether it’s roasting s’mores, playing capture the flag, or cheering for their team.

🚀 Parent Tip: If your child is shy, let us know. We’ll make sure they’re partnered and supported by the best counselors for them.

Fear #3: “What if they don’t like the food?”

📌 The reality: Camp food has come a long way since mystery meat in the cafeteria.
Most kids are surprised by how much they love the food.

How we handle it:
✅ Kid-approved menus (pasta bars, taco nights, fresh fruit, and plenty of options).
✅ Dietary needs? We’ve got you. Vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free? No problem, please connect with one of our directors.
✅ Year-Round Chef: We have a dedicated team that is with us year-round, in comparison to most camps where they are seasonal.

Fear #4: “What if my child struggles with independence?”

📌 The reality: Camp teaches independence in a way that feels safe.
Your child won’t be left to figure things out alone. Camp guides them toward independence step by step.

How we handle it:
✅ Daily routines provide structure & security.
✅ Counselors teach campers how to manage small tasks on their own.
✅ Kids gain confidence in making choices (like picking their activities!).

🚀 Parent Tip: Practice little things at home, like packing their own bag or picking out their clothes—to build independence before camp.

Fear #5: “What if something happens and I can’t talk to them?”

📌 The reality: Camp is a tech-free zone for a reason—and kids adjust quickly.
Yes, it might feel weird at first not texting your child every day. But that break from screens lets them be fully present, which is a game-changer.

How we handle it:
✅ Daily photo uploads so you can see what they’re up to.
✅ Letter writing so they can stay connected in a meaningful way.
✅ Camp Moms are always available if you need updates.

🚀 Parent Tip: Instead of worrying, use this time to enjoy a break from parenting stress (you deserve it).

Fear #6: “What if they don’t want to go back?”

📌 The reality: Most kids don’t want to leave.
Even the ones who were nervous at drop-off are begging to stay longer by the end.

Why? Because they:
✅ Gain confidence they never knew they had.
✅ Build friendships they’ll talk about all year.
✅ Have the time of their lives.

🚀 Parent Tip: Be ready, because next year, they’ll be counting down the days until camp starts again.