There are many ways a child may react after coming home from camp. The two most common that I have witnessed are the kids who come home with an increased sense of independence and confidence and those who come home “campsick” and are already counting down to next summer. Let’s break down what each of these may look like and some tips for parents as your child is experiencing this transition!

Your child has just spent weeks or even months trying and accomplishing new things ranging from new sports and activities to new chores and taking care of themselves in ways they haven’t before. They may want to show you some of their recently discovered talents by pitching in around the house, similarly to how they did in their cabin, continuing the new hobbies they enjoyed at camp, or acting in ways to display an increase in their maturity and confidence after spending the summer away. This newfound maturity may result in a few power struggles around your home. If this does occur, it is important to remember that for most kids, these behaviors are short-lived and likely a part of the “honeymoon phase” that occurs immediately following the child’s return from camp as they are adjusting back to their normal routine.

In addition to the previously described child who is feeling excited and confident upon their return from camp, it is not abnormal for children to display signs of sadness, difficulty adjusting back to their home routine, or even complaining about being back home. These feelings and behaviors are often a result of missing their camp friends and the independence of being away at camp. The important thing to remember if your child is acting differently than before they left for camp is that this transition is temporary! So, then the question is, what can you do to best support them during this transition?

● Recognize new things that have emerged within your child (confidence, maturity, skills, friendships)

● Do not take it personally if your child is feeling sad about being home! As discussed above, this is a typical emotion for a child to display during a transition.

● Talk with your child about their camp experiences (the good, bad, funny, scary, difficult, etc.).

● Help your child maintain relationships and stay in contact with the friends they made at camp.

● Allow your child time and space to process the growth and self-discovery that occurred as a result of all the new experiences they had at camp. Eventually, they will be ready to share this growth with you and the world!

● The rules at camp were different than those in your household, so it is likely that your child will come home with a different set of rules in mind. If possible, practice leniency and understanding as your child adjusts back to their home routine and expectations.

● Allow your child to rest after a fun summer filled with structure, activities, and new experiences. A good night’s sleep can do wonders for a child’s physical, emotional, and behavioral well-being!

● The end of camp is often a signal that the upcoming school year is approaching, which can cause stress for some children. If you notice your child feeling anxious or dreadful, it is important that you acknowledge and validate their feelings, help them prepare by developing and practicing a new routine for the school year, and engage in activities that help get them excited for school to begin.

Important note: if you feel your child’s behavior is different than their own baseline and it persists for longer than several weeks, it may be a sign to seek professional help for your child as they navigate this transition and the stress that accompanies it.

Final Thoughts: Stay Supported

At Inspire Counseling Center, we specialize in supporting kids and adolescents as they navigate new environments, transitions, and relationships. From anxiety and campsickness to ADHD, executive functioning, behavior and boundary-setting—we’re here to help.
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