Hide letters inside pockets, sleeping bag, shoes.
The season for summer camps is about to begin. My youngest (9 years old) is going for the first time to an overnight camp. This is a big deal.
One of things I will do is hide little notes throughout his suitcase, sleeping bag, and in his shoes. My hope is that this is not only funny to him, but will let him know how proud we are of him, going to camp on his own. There is a risk though, that the notes will cause him to be homesick.
Keep reading for ideas on how to avoid the ‘homesick letter syndrome.’
Avoid causing a wave of homesickness with these 8 tips:
Any paper will do to write your youngster a letter, but I just can’t resist this camp stationery by Ecojot. Not only the most adorable paper ever, but their journal can be sent along with your camper for them to jot down memories, doodles, notes while at camp. What a great treasure for them to look back on later.
1. Parents, keep your emotions in check, no matter how much you are missing them, don’t get all gushy in the letter. Opt for “Can’t wait to hear about all the fun things you are doing at camp” vs. “I miss you so much I can’t stand it.”
2. Talk and ask about campfires, songs, food, counselors, crafts, activities. Asking lots of questions is a good thing. Avoid talking too much about what is going on at home so your camper doesn’t feel they are missing out on anything or begin to wish for home.
3. Send a letter before camp actually begins. This is such fun as it will be waiting for your camper on day one. When camp is only a week long, if you wait to mail your letter after your camper is gone, the letter may not actually arrive until almost the end of camp.
4. Do check camp policy on sending campers letters.
5. Don’t expect a letter back, but you can always provide a self addressed envelope, including a stamp, to make it easy should your camper decide to write back.
6. Get creative and send your camper a letter from the family pet.
7. Draw your letter. A picture of your camper as you imagine them trying out archery or swimming. Maybe throw in some knock-knock jokes.
8. Don’t over think it. Just write. You will delight your child by giving them the experience of opening mail just for them.
Fun camp stationery
Ecojot’s new summer camp writing paper is available exclusively at Paper Source while another line (equally charming) is found directly via Ecojot or if you are in the Toronto area, stop by Presto Paper & Home to stock up on camp stationery.
Did you go to summer camp as a kid? What is your best memory?