Setting off for an adventure camp can be a thrilling prospect for your child. However, it’s not uncommon for nerves to kick in, leading to feelings of homesickness. This is a completely natural experience for many children when they’re away from home for an extended period, like during a summer camp or a school trip.
As parents, witnessing our children struggle with homesickness can be tough. But there are several steps we can take to help them overcome it so they fully enjoy their time at camp, build confidence, learn new skills, and make lasting friendships!
What is homesickness?
Homesickness is more than just missing home; it’s a complex mix of emotions including sadness, anxiety, and a longing for familiarity. It can manifest differently in each child, ranging from mild feelings of unease to more severe symptoms like crying, physical discomfort, or difficulty sleeping. Understanding what homesickness involves is the first step in helping our children cope effectively.
Tips for homesickness
To make sure your child remains upbeat and has an incredible adventure, here are some tips for homesickness at camp:
Practice overnight stays
Before sending your child off to adventure camp, consider arranging sleepovers with friends or relatives in the months leading up to their trip. This helps alleviate some of their anxiety about spending nights away from home and boosts their confidence in dealing with separation. Check out our blog on the benefits of overnight school camps to explore the exciting experiences awaiting your child during their stay!
Involve them in decisions
One of the best homesickness tips for parents is to empower their children by including them in decisions regarding their upcoming camping trip. When kids have a say in choosing a camp that suits their interests, and pack their own bags, it makes them feel more involved and comfortable, all while building anticipation. Need more information? Dive into our guide to outdoor adventure camps for kids, covering everything from accommodations to the best age to send your child to camp and much more!
Address concerns
Encourage open communication by addressing any concerns or fears your child may have. This could be anything from worries about fitting in or making friends and missing family members to experiencing new challenges and unfamiliar surroundings. Listen attentively and provide lots of words of encouragement to help alleviate their anxieties. If your child is travelling with their school or a group, contact the trip leader for assistance with any questions or concerns.
Take a comforting item
Pack a comforting item from home, such as a favourite stuffed animal or pillow, a cherished family photo, or a handwritten note. Having a tangible reminder of home can provide comfort, reassurance and familiarity during moments of homesickness, especially at bedtime.
Stay connected
Finally, maintain communication with your child while they’re away, whether through letters, emails, or scheduled phone calls. Make sure to focus on the positive aspects of camp and allow them space to grow in confidence. However, reassuring them that you’re always there for support can help alleviate homesickness and foster a stronger bond between you.
Book your child’s adventure camp today!
Now that you’re equipped with these homesickness tips, it’s time to book your child’s adventure camp with confidence! PGL have been successfully organising camps in Australia since 2014 and our experienced staff provide ample support for campers adjusting to life away from home.
We prioritise safety and fun above all else, offering a wide variety of engaging outdoor activities suitable for all ages, whether on a school camp, holiday camp, or group camp adventure.
We run camps in Victoria at (PGL Campaspe Downs & PGL Camp Rumbug) and Queensland at (PGL Kindilan)! So, contact us today and watch your child thrive!
