What is the Best Age for Kids to Camp?

The ideal age to send your children to camp will depend on both their level of maturity and how comfortable you are with letting go. However, when done properly, a summer camp experience may teach a child of any age important life lessons. Before a child attends sleepaway camp, Kishline advises parents of reluctant children to try family camping excursions, attend camp information sessions, and speak with other families about their programs.

Ages 5 to 9

Children can start to become less dependent on their parents and learn how to take care of themselves at this age. By participating in camp activities, they can increase their endurance, and by forming social bonds with other children and counselors, they can improve their social skills. They may also feel a little homesick, but if they can overcome this with the help of supportive adults, it will help them get ready for bigger challenges later on, such as college or employment that require them to live away from home. Children of this age can also relearn how to pass the time without the assistance of devices, realizing that the sights and sounds of nature offer a wealth of stimulation. Engaging in problem-solving activities can enhance their cognitive abilities, while physical activity can help them with their fine and gross motor skills. Still, children this age are too young to go to overnight camps by themselves. For them, the best options are to try out local day camps that have been recognized by the American Camp Association or go on a family camping vacation. In this manner, before attempting a sleepaway camp, they will become accustomed to the notion of spending time away from their parents.

Ages 10 to 12

Your youngster is ready for an independent camping trip if they are eleven years old or older. They are well capable of being safe and making their own decisions throughout this period. At sleepovers, they probably don't mind spending the night somewhere other than home, and they might even be advocating for a camp session. According to the ACA, they are old enough to comprehend and accept the obligations associated with attending camp. To pique your kids' interest, if they're apprehensive, show them a few camp brochures and videos. Attending a camp within its operating hours is also beneficial. Observing energetic children having a good time outside will provide them with the knowledge they need to make an informed choice. Encourage children to disconnect from technology and explore the surrounding natural environment as well! Children of all ages like learning how to pass the time when they are not constantly distracted by their iPads and cellphones. They will discover that there's nothing more captivating than what they can see on a screen—nature!

13 to 15 years old

Children at this age must be emotionally developed enough to trust the camp staff to look after them when they are away from their parents for extended periods of time. This is like the emotional maturity needed for education, just less demanding and more enjoyable. At this age, children also begin to gain greater independence and self-sufficiency that they may use in the outside world. Kids should learn healthy ways to control their emotions, and camp provides a distraction-free environment for a range of social activities that help them achieve this. Additionally, they learn to rely on their own resources as well as those of their peers, which can strengthen their resilience. If your child isn't comfortable attending sleepaway camp at this age, try taking them on a family camping trip or a day camp session with you before trying again later. If they feel ready, you can also try a shorter session.

16 to 18 years old

Children in this age range are prepared to take on the challenges of camp. They can overcome homesickness and are old enough to comprehend the value of independence. Additionally, this is a great opportunity for children to understand the importance of maintaining relationships with existing friends and forming new ones. It's crucial to allow your kids time to get used to the notion of camp if they are apprehensive. But you ought to support them if they're enthusiastic. Try showing them informational pamphlets and images of the camp, as well as introducing them to it via sleepovers or family camping excursions. Another excellent way to reassure kids that they'll be secure and well-cared for while they're away from home is to attend an open house for summer camp. Recall that experiencing homesickness for a week or two at camp is preferable to having them experience it as a freshman in college or university. Who knows, maybe they'll decide to return after fifteen years!