I bounded up the escalator steps, eager to reach the gate where my daughter’s plane would soon arrive. This was her first summer at sleepaway camp, and for weeks, I had been anxiously anticipating updates about her bunkmates, camp meals, and all the exciting activities she had been up to. Unfortunately, my daily mail check yielded little more than the usual bills and furniture catalogs, punctuated by an occasional flyer from a local realtor. The few letters she managed to send were brief: “I love my counselors! We went swimming. I have hot chocolate for breakfast every day.”
Perhaps her concise updates were a sign she was too busy enjoying herself to elaborate. Or maybe she wasn’t having fun at all and simply chose not to share.
When I finally spotted her, I waved enthusiastically and rushed to envelop her in a warm hug. “I missed you!” I exclaimed. “How was camp?”
“I want to go for the whole month next year,” she responded, her embrace less fervent than mine. There was no reciprocation of my sentiments—no “I missed you too,” no tears of joy.
As we stepped back, I took a moment to truly observe her. The highlights in her chestnut hair, her radiant cheeks, and even the slight increase in her height caught my attention. The 9½-year-old before me radiated confidence and calmness—so different from the occasionally clingy, tearful child I had sent off two weeks prior. It suddenly hit me: my daughter had just undergone a transformative experience, one that was uniquely hers. Throughout the summer, as I learned more about her time at camp, I realized just how valuable this experience was.
The Benefits of Sleepaway Camp
Enrolling kids in sleepaway camp is a significant decision. The emotional weight is felt by both parents and children. Being away from home for an extended period can be daunting. Choosing the right camp adds another layer of complexity, and let’s not forget the costs, which can rival a luxurious family getaway depending on the duration of the stay. Yet, despite these challenges, the benefits of providing your child with an independent experience are immense.
For my daughter, who has two sisters, camp is a rare opportunity to be her true self without the titles of “younger” or “older sister.” It’s a space where she can explore her interests, form her opinions, and choose her friends without any familial influence. Being placed in a cabin with 11 unfamiliar girls pushed her to learn how to navigate social dynamics, forge friendships with those she connected with, and resolve conflicts independently. Unlike the constant adult mediation that often occurs at home, camp encourages campers to work through disagreements on their own. This environment has helped my daughters return home with enhanced self-assurance, better social skills, and a willingness to embrace new activities—sometimes even failing at first. These are essential life lessons that camp cultivates.
A Respite for Parents
Sleepaway camp isn’t just beneficial for the kids; it also provides a much-needed respite for me. The chaos of the school year gives way to a quieter home, allowing me to savor quality time with my youngest daughter. Amid working from home, I find time to read, write, and enjoy leisurely walks. This period of separation rejuvenates me, making me appreciate my children and motherhood in a way that the daily hustle often obscures.
The slower pace also positively impacts my marriage. With fewer kids around, my husband and I enjoy more uninterrupted conversations and moments of tranquility. We can put our youngest to bed early and enjoy each other’s company without the usual rush.
Looking Forward
As my children and I review the camp packing lists for the upcoming year, excitement fills the air. They can’t wait to explore the campgrounds, sneak into the kitchen at midnight, and relish their carefree adventures. Meanwhile, I look forward to the cherished time apart, the opportunity to bond with my husband, and a more relaxed daily rhythm. It truly feels like a win-win situation.
In summary, sending your kids to sleepaway camp offers them the chance to grow independently, learn essential life skills, and build confidence while providing parents with a well-deserved break. Embrace this opportunity for both you and your children!
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