Helping Little Ones Ease Into Big Summer Fun

As the school year winds down and summer approaches, it’s time to start thinking about camp. If your little one is heading to day camp for the first time, or even if they’ve gone before, you might notice some mixed feelings. That’s perfectly normal! Change can feel big, especially for little kids. But the good news? There’s so much to love about camp.

What Makes Camp So Great?

Camp is full of exciting opportunities:

🎨 Arts and crafts

🏃 Outdoor games and sports

🪁 Outside fun

🧃 Picnic lunches

💛 New friends

🌈 Fun traditions

For preschoolers and young children, camp is more than just play; it offers a structured routine, new role models, and a chance to explore a fresh environment. It’s a wonderful blend of learning, socializing, and having fun.

Wondering If Your Child Is Ready for Camp?

Here are a few signs that your child may be ready to take the leap:

✅ They Enjoy Playing With Other Kids

If your child is beginning to share, take turns, or engage in make-believe with friends, they may thrive in the fun of camp.

✅ They’ve Been in a Group Setting

Preschool or daycare means your child is probably already familiar with group routines, transitions, and listening to adults other than their parents. That’s a great head start for camp life!

🚀 Even Without Prior Experience...

If your child hasn’t been in a daycare or preschool setting before, camp is a wonderful first step. It helps children learn that other adults, like counselors, can be safe, caring role models too.

Nervous About Camp? So Is Your Child…And That’s Okay!

Transitions can be tricky, even for confident kids. Here are some gentle ways to help ease nerves and build excitement:

🗣 Talk About It

Ask your child what they think camp will be like. What sounds fun? What are they unsure about? Use this as a chance to validate their feelings and open a two-way conversation.

📚 Tell a Story

Make up a story about a child (maybe named after your child!) who was nervous about camp, but ended up having a great time. Stories are a powerful tool to help young children process emotions.

🧸 Try Role Play

Use stuffed animals, drawings, or pretend play to “act out” what camp might be like. Walk through drop-off, snack time, or meeting a new friend.

🎒 Get Them Involved

Give your child a sense of control. Let them help pack their lunch or choose their backpack. Ask what special item (like a small toy or drawing) they want to bring to feel safe and connected.

🎨 Visit Before Camp Starts

If possible, tour the camp ahead of time. Let your child explore the space so it feels more familiar on day one.

Helping Kids Cope With Camp Jitters

Preschoolers are still learning how to understand and express their emotions. Here’s how you can support their emotional growth during this transition:

• Normalize fear: “It’s okay to feel nervous about something new.”

• Give tools: “Let’s practice kicking a soccer ball if that’s what you’re worried about.”

• Reflect after day one: “What surprised you today? What did you like best? What would make tomorrow even better?”

• Set the tone: Show confidence in the camp and in your child’s ability to handle it. Your calm energy goes a long way!

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Final Thoughts

The start of summer can be both exciting and overwhelming, for kids and parents! But with preparation, encouragement, and empathy, your child can walk into camp feeling ready, supported, and brave.

Camp is a great way to build independence, social skills, and confidence, while having loads of fun. If you’re excited and positive about the experience, your child will likely follow your lead.

Here’s to a summer filled with sunny days, big smiles, sweet new memories, and no more camp jitters!

Need support with your toddler’s sleep or behavior challenges?

Let’s talk. I’m here to help guide your family through transitions big and small.

Sweet Dreams!😴👶

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