6 Reasons I’m Struggling with Overnight Camp

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Two weeks ago, I sent my son, Ethan, off to overnight camp for two months. To be candid, the decision to enroll him was not entirely voluntary for either of us. Initially, Ethan expressed excitement about going, but as the departure date approached, he had second thoughts, which led me to question whether this was the right choice. While he may be thriving at camp, I find myself grappling with the challenges of overnight camp. Here’s why:

1. Scarcity of Photos
   Ethan seems to evade the camp photographer with the same determination he shows when avoiding chores. I diligently check the camp’s daily photo uploads, combing through nearly 1,500 images, and I’m lucky if I spot him in a distant crowd shot.
2. Impact of Missing Photos
   The few photos I do find become subjects of intense scrutiny. While most would see him in a crisp uniform, I worry that his lack of food stains indicates he isn’t eating properly, leading me to wonder if he’s gone days without changing clothes.
3. The Letters I Receive
   Despite being adept at solving complex math problems, Ethan struggles with the basics of letter writing. I’ve resorted to sending him diagrams on how to address an envelope since his letters often arrive with missing return addresses. So far, I’ve received three letters: one requesting his tennis racket, a second mentioning rain and inquiring if I’d received his letters, and the third expressing frustration with a bunkmate, signed “Best, Ethan Larkins” — no love for mom.
4. The Letters I Write
   Writing to my camper is a challenge, as I must craft letters without sharing updates from home to avoid triggering homesickness. My letters are filled with questions about camp life based on the limited insights from the photos. “I noticed there were camp Olympics last weekend—what events did you participate in? Did you win anything? Who’s in your cabin?” I realize now that this barrage of unanswered questions resembles a celebrity stalker’s correspondence.
5. Visiting Day Dilemma
   Ah, Visiting Day—what a paradox! I yearn to see Ethan, but I dread the thought of visiting him just as he’s found his footing at camp. Why would parents come to visit when kids are finally adjusting to being away from home? It feels counterproductive, and I can only imagine the chaos that ensues when I leave, possibly envisioning a counselor prying Ethan from the car’s windshield as we drive away. If anyone has a case of chickenpox, please send it my way—I’m searching for a non-life-threatening excuse to avoid this emotional rollercoaster.
6. The Void of His Absence
   I often thought I would relish the peace and quiet without Ethan’s antics. However, I was unprepared for the overwhelming silence that fills our home in his absence. Every time I pass his room and see the neatly made bed, I’m reminded of how much I miss his lively, chaotic presence.

Despite these challenges, I recognize that sending Ethan to camp was the best decision for him. The joy I see in his camp photos—playing sports he’s never tried, bonding with new friends, and enthusiastically engaging in activities—shows that he has conquered his fears about being away from home.

In retrospect, maybe I don’t hate overnight camp after all.

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Summary

Navigating overnight camp has presented numerous challenges for both me and my son. From the scarcity of photos to the emotional rollercoaster of letters and visiting day, I’ve found myself struggling with his absence. However, witnessing Ethan’s happiness and growth while away reassures me that this experience is beneficial for him.