Dear Counselor:

When you’re talking about sending your child to an overnight camp, how young is too young?

To camp overnight, or not to camp overnight - that is the question.  The good news is there are so many camp options available for kids today you are bound to find one that is a good fit for your child and their interests.  The bad news is there are so many camp options available for kids today you are bound to become confused in trying to select the best one for your child.

So, let’s begin by considering day camp vs. overnight camp.  I believe children are more ready for overnight camp beginning around the 7th or 8th grade (6th grade is definitely more of a gray area).  I feel elementary school is simply too young.  Readiness can be determined by considering such factors as age, social development, cognitive development and emotional maturity.  Of course, exceptions do prove the rule and, ultimately, you know your child best.

Whether you are considering an overnight camp or simply a day camp, it is time for you, as parents, to do your homework.  Talk with other family members or trusted friends who have sent their child to the camp you are considering.  If you don’t have the benefit of knowing anyone who has sent a child there before (or even if you do), visit the camp, meet the staff, check out the facilities, etc. NEVER send a child to any camp sight unseen (virtual visits DO NOT count).

Other factors to consider when selecting a camp for your child may include: your comfort level as a parent; interests of your child, cost, location, and schedule.

Some of our greatest childhood memories can be of our summer camp experiences.  Let’s make sure, as parents, we do our best to help keep it that way for our children!

Our counselor has a B.A. in Psychology and a Masters in Education and Counseling.  “Dear Counselor” has been a school counselor for 13 years and works with grades K-12.