Discussion Questions:

• Do you feel you’re ready to go to summer camp? Would you be more interested in a day camp, or a camp where you could spend the night?

• If you want to go to sleepaway camp, how long do you think you’d like to stay? How far away from here would you want to go? What type of camp, or any camp in particular, sounds fun to you?

• Even though you’re excited about the idea of sleepaway camp, I don’t know if I’m comfortable with you being away from home. Can you understand why I would feel this way? Can we talk about day camps that might be a good alternative?

• Which activities are you most excited to try at camp?

• How do you think you’ll make friends at camp?

• Do you have any specific worries about what camp will be like or how you’ll fit in?

• If you’re nervous about being away from home, is there anything I can do to help you? How can you deal with feelings of homesickness when you get to camp?

• Camp is all about fun, but it’s also a serious commitment. What do you think are some of the responsibilities you’ll have as a camper?

Remember:
-- Kids are usually ready for camp when THEY express interest.

--Making a promise to come pick your child up from camp if he or she does not like it can be counterproductive, keeping him or her from making a real commitment to the experience.