Is My Child Ready for Overnight Summer Camp?

Key Points

• Most kids start attending sleepaway camp between ages 7 and 10
• The younger they start, the smoother the transition typically is
• Independent self-care, eagerness, and interest are all signs of readiness
• Send them as soon as they are ready

Families often wonder what the right age is to start sending their kids to overnight camp. While most start between the ages of 7 and 10, the simple answer is to send them as soon as they’re ready. Typically the younger they start, the easier the transition is and greater long-term growth they’ll have. But every child is different so here are some key signs to help you know if your child is ready to start overnight camp:

Are they eager to go? Are they asking about camp?

If they’re asking questions about camp or showing even the slightest interest in going, that is a clear sign they are ready. Foster this excitement by talking with them about it and maybe even looking at some camps together.

Have they had successful nights away from home?

All kids should be comfortable sleeping away from home before starting overnight camp. If they’ve had successful sleepovers away from home (and you) at a friend’s or relative’s without major distress, they’re ready.

Are they independent with daily tasks?

If your child can brush their teeth, shower, dress themselves, and manage their belongings on their own, they’re ready. The more self-reliant they are, the more success they’ll have at camp. If they’re not quite there yet, that’s okay, just allow them opportunities to practice self-sufficiency at home before camp.

Are they emotionally at grade level?

Do they handle minor setbacks well? Are they generally well-behaved at school? Can they communicate their needs and follow directions easily? If the answer is yes to all these, they are ready. If the answer is no to any, it’s not a deal breaker, but be sure to express those challenges with the camp before enrolling.

Are they open to trying new things and experiences?

Overnight camp is all about new experiences–new friends, new environments, new adventures– so the more open they are to them, the more success and fun they will have. Your kid doesn’t need to be first in line but if they have some willingness to try new things, they’re ready.

If you answered ‘yes’ to most of these, your child is ready for a successful overnight camp experience. However, if you answered ‘no’ more than once, you might consider waiting a year or starting them with day camp first. Remember, the more ready and willing your child is, the more likely they are to have the best summer ever.