Posted by: Birch Rock Camp

100 Years of Happy Campers: Your guide to overcoming homesickness & anxiety

Congratulations on choosing Birch Rock Camp for your boy—you’ve found the perfect, traditional camp, now a century old! Starting sleepaway camp is like plunging into a cool Maine lake. It’s exhilarating, but can be a bit of a jolt. To help you and your son navigate this big event, we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on building resilience, conquering anxiety and homesickness, and fostering lifelong friendships.

How can I help my child prepare for their first time at sleepaway camp?

One of the best things you can do to prepare your son for something as momentous as sleepaway camp is simple: talk it up with him. Discuss both the fun and the challenges ahead. From practicing sleepovers to packing the trunk together, being proactive is key to a smooth transition.
Read More: 8 Ways to Build Your Son’s Confidence Before Sleepaway Camp Starts

How can my child independently manage homesickness at sleepaway camp?

Equip your son with a mental toolkit for Camp by sharing practical strategies he can use to find his footing independently. From focusing on the positive to  being a good listener, these tools turn the first-day jitters into a summer of self-confidence.
Read More: 6 Strategies for Your Son to Manage Homesickness at Camp

How do I handle my own anxiety when sending my son to sleepaway camp for the first time?

Sending your son to camp is a milestone for you just as much as it is for him. Explore these five strategies to help you navigate the proud and wistful feelings of the summer transition and find peace of mind as your child spreads his wings at Birch Rock.
Read More: 5 Strategies for Parents Coping with the First Camp Experience

How will Birch Rock Camp help my son manage his homesickness? 

Birch Rock is a small, tight-knit community of campers and staff who cherish hallowed rituals and traditions. From the historic Lodge and whitewashed cabins to our pristine lake and towering pines, every boy is closely observed and well-known. Everyone lives by our motto: Help the Other Fellow. At Birch Rock, our Directors and counselors are experts at helping your child conquer homesickness, turning discomfort into self-confidence.
Read More: Birch Rock’s Proven Methods for Managing Sleepaway Camp Anxiety

Some Quick Tips for an Awesome Summer

  • Before Camp: Avoid the “Pick-up Deal.” Telling your son you will come get him if he’s homesick undermines his own coping abilities. Instead, reassure him that the Birch Rock community is there to help him feel better, reinforcing the idea that he is capable of tackling new challenges.
  • During Camp: Dive into the Fun. Encourage your son to “plunge” into camp activities—whether it’s soccer, swimming, or campcraft. Focusing on the excitement of the activities keeps his mind in the moment and is the natural enemy of homesickness.
  • At Home: Reframe the Pangs. Remember that homesickness is simply a reflection of a happy home—and that is a wonderful thing. By allowing him to navigate a little discomfort now, you are giving him the big rewards of resilience, adventure, and self-reliance.

How Can We Help?

Our goal, summer after summer, is to help campers and their parents feel happy and confident. If you have questions about your son’s upcoming session, please reach out to Camp Director Mike Mattson.