So your child is heading to overnight summer camp for the first time, congrats mama! This is a huge milestone, not just for your child but for you too. Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, emotional (or all of the above), you’re not alone.
First-time camp can bring big feelings—and a million questions:
Is my child ready? What if they get homesick? Can I call them? What do I even pack?!
Breathe. You’ve got this. And Kidventure’s overnight camp is an amazing choice for first-time campers. It’s designed to help kids grow, stretch, laugh, and gain a ton of confidence—and it all starts with the right prep at home.
Here are three real-world, mom-tested strategies to help you prep your child (and yourself!) for an unforgettable summer camp experience.
Start the Camp Conversation Early (and Keep It Going)
Let’s be real: kids don’t magically feel excited and confident about sleeping away from home just because we signed them up. It takes intentional conversation—and more than one!
Talk About What Camp Will Really Be Like
Sit down with your child and walk through what camp looks like—where they’ll sleep, what a typical day includes, what the food is like, how showers work, etc. Knowing what to expect helps squash those “what if” worries before they spiral.
You could even look at photos or videos from Kidventure’s website together or draw a “camp map” together to visualize what it might look like.
Pro Tip: Ask them what they’re wondering about. Questions like:
- “What if I don’t make friends?”
- “What if I miss you?”
- “What if I forget something?”
Encourage open dialogue and validate their feelings—don’t rush to solve or fix everything. Sometimes kids just need to know it’s okay to be nervous.
The night before my daughter’s first overnight camp, she packed her favorite stuffed bunny, then burst into tears at bedtime. She wasn’t sure if she was scared, excited, or both. We cuddled up and read a book about being brave—even when you’re scared—and I reminded her that her camp counselor’s job was to be her “camp mom.” I still slipped a tiny note into her sock that said, “You’ve got this.” She found it on night two and later told me it helped her feel like I was right there.
When to Start
Start these chats at least a month before camp. You want time for things to sink in, and to normalize the idea that camp is both exciting and a little bit challenging.
Emotional Prep Toolkit for First-Time Campers
Build Independence Before They Leave
If you want your child to feel strong and capable at camp, now’s the time to help them build up those “I’ve got this” muscles.
Let Them Practice “Life Skills”
These don’t have to be huge things, but small tasks practiced at home give kids major confidence at camp.
First-Time Camp Readiness Checklist
When my son packed his own camp bag for the first time, I let him lead—and wow, the choices. He packed six comic books, one sock, and a box of granola bars. But with a little guidance (and a double-check from me), he learned how to think about what he’d actually need. Now, he’s the first to say, “I’ve got my stuff handled,” whenever we go anywhere. That little bit of pre-camp packing ownership made a huge difference.
Try Practice Sleepovers
Overnight camp is a big leap if your child has never slept away from home. Try a few sleepover practice runs—overnights with grandparents, cousins, or trusted family friends. Let them experience being away, then talk through how it went.
Talk About Friendship Skills
Many kids wonder, “What if I don’t make friends?” Help them feel more confident by practicing these friendly openers:
- “Hi, I’m [name]. Want to hang out?”
- “Can I join your game?”
- “What’s your favorite part of camp so far?”
Encourage eye contact, asking questions, and being inclusive. It’s all about small, brave steps.
Discuss Safety & Boundaries
Talk honestly with your child about:
- Who to go to when they need help
- What “safe touch” means
- Why rules are important
- How to say “no” if something doesn’t feel right
Use everyday language and real-world examples they understand. Reassure them that counselors are there to keep them safe, and they can always ask questions.
Get Practical: Pack Smart + Set Expectations
Now let’s talk about what to actually send to camp—and how to prepare both of you emotionally for the big drop-off.
Involve Your Child in Packing
Packing together builds independence and gets them excited. Plus, they’ll know exactly where their stuff is (and hopefully remember to use it!).
What to Pack for First-Time Sleepaway Camp
- Comfortable clothes for all weather
- Extra underwear and socks
- Sleeping bag & pillow
- Toiletries (toothbrush, shampoo, deodorant)
- Sunscreen & bug spray
- Closed-toe shoes + flip-flops for shower
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Disposable camera (optional, no phones)
- Small comfort item (stuffed animal or photo)
- Pre-addressed stamped envelopes or notes from home
- Kidventure packing list (check their official site!)
Let your child help lay things out, label them, and choose personal touches like their favorite T-shirt or bedtime book.
Set Realistic Expectations
Before drop-off, talk about what to expect emotionally and physically:
- Homesickness is normal (and doesn’t last forever)
- It’s okay to forget things—they’ll adapt
- Camp is full of ups and downs—that’s part of the growth
- Counselors are there to help every step of the way
Stay Connected (in Healthy Ways)
While most camps (like Kidventure) limit phone access, you can:
- Send letters or postcards
- Tuck small notes into socks or books
- Leave a surprise note in their toiletries kit
Just make sure your notes are light and positive:
“We’re so proud of you! The dog misses your snuggles.”
Avoid guilt-laden lines like “I’m so lonely without you”—those can trigger homesickness.
First-Time Overnight Camp FAQ for Houston Moms
What’s the best age for my child’s first overnight camp?
Most kids do great at camp around ages 7–10, but it’s really about readiness—not age. If your child is curious about camp, does well with sleepovers, and can handle basic routines like brushing teeth and getting dressed independently, it might be time.
How do I know if my child is emotionally ready for overnight camp?
Readiness shows up in small ways: Are they resilient after a hard day at school? Do they bounce back from being homesick at grandma’s house? Can they speak up when they need help? These signs all point to a camper who’s ready to thrive.
How early should we start preparing for camp?
Start prepping 4–6 weeks out. Use that time to build independence, talk about feelings, do a test overnight or two, and get your packing list started. This pacing helps camp feel like a big adventure, not a surprise.
How does Kidventure handle homesickness?
Counselors are trained pros at spotting and supporting homesick campers. They’ll listen, redirect, and help kids connect through games, shared meals, and team activities. Most homesickness fades within the first day or two. You’ll be contacted only if your child truly needs you.
Can I call my child during camp?
Nope—and that’s a good thing. Kidventure is tech-free to help campers unplug, connect, and build independence. Instead, tuck a few sweet notes in their socks or send a postcard midweek. You can always contact staff if you have concerns.
What if there’s a hurricane or heat wave in Houston?
Welcome to Texas! Kidventure monitors weather closely and has solid safety plans, including shaded areas, indoor activities, and hydration breaks. You’ll be notified if any major weather event affects drop-off, pickup, or the schedule.
What are the most important things to pack for Houston’s summer weather?
Think light and layered. Pack breathable shirts, shorts, and a hoodie or light jacket for cooler mornings. Don’t forget rain gear, bug spray (hello, mosquitoes), a refillable water bottle, and plenty of sunscreen.
How do I help my child if they’re nervous about making friends?
Remind them that every camper is new on day one. Practice a few friendly openers at home, and reassure them that camp is full of shared activities designed to help friendships happen naturally. Counselors are great at helping kids connect.
Final Thoughts: Camp is Growth with a Side of Mud and Marshmallows
Mama, sending your kiddo to their first overnight summer camp isn’t just a parenting milestone—it’s a powerful gift. You’re helping them discover resilience, confidence, independence, and a whole lot of joy.
You’re not just packing their duffel—you’re packing their courage and curiosity. And when they come home covered in dirt, filled with stories, and walking a little taller, you’ll know you both did something amazing.
Kidventure is built for first-time campers, with the structure, heart, and fun to help them thrive.
