Posted by: Birch Rock Camp

Deciding to send your child to overnight camp is exciting… and a little terrifying. You want them to grow and gain confidence, but you also don’t want to push them before they’re ready.

I’ve learned this firsthand with my son, William.

Homesickness Isn’t a Red Flag

William’s first year of camp at age 8 had moments of homesickness. He’s written the “I miss you” letter. He’s had a tough time here and there. And every single time, he’s worked through it and, honestly, very quickly.

What I’ve realized is this: feeling homesick doesn’t mean a child isn’t ready. It means they’re human.

What matters more is whether they can move through those feelings with the support that fellow campers and staff provide at Birch Rock Camp. William loves camp. He talks about his friends all year. He counts down the days. For him, the adventure, independence, and friendships far outweigh the fear of missing home. The homesickness is a small chapter in a much bigger and exciting story.

Independence Isn’t About Doing Everything Perfectly

Before sending him, I worried about the little things like remembering towels, keeping track of clothes, and brushing teeth without reminders. But Birch Rock Camp has a way of helping boys rise to expectations.

William has grown so much simply by being in a place where he’s trusted to try. It’s not about perfection, it’s about willingness. If your child shows even small signs of wanting to do things on their own, that’s a powerful indicator they can thrive.

What About a Younger Sibling?

This year, his younger brother (age 7) is going too.

Do I wonder if he’s ready? Of course. But I also see the way he watches his big brother. He wants that independence. He wants the stories, the friendships, the fun that Birch Rock Camp provides.

I know there may be tears at drop-off. There may be wobbly moments. But I also know how much growth can happen in those spaces. And seeing how William has navigated homesickness while still loving every part of camp gives me confidence that his younger brother can do the same.

Talk With Them — and Trust Yourself

The most helpful thing we’ve done is talk openly about what camp feels like as a family. Both the fun parts and the hard parts. Not pretending homesickness won’t happen, but reminding them they can handle it.

At the end of the day, readiness isn’t about guaranteeing a tear-free experience. It’s about believing your child has the tools and the support to grow through it.

For William, the good of camp has always outweighed the fear of missing home. And that’s how I know we made the right call.

If you’re on the fence, trust your gut. You know your child best. Sometimes the bravest step for them and for us is letting them go and watching them surprise us.