Separation Anxiety: Ensuring that Your Child Arrives for Camp Happily

Are you and your child facing challenges when it comes to school or introducing them to new places and activities?

As a provider of children's camps, we often encounter young children who feel nervous and clingy to their parents during drop-offs, especially at the beginning of the camp week.

We all dread tearful and tantrum-filled goodbyes, even though we know how much fun your child will have once they adapt and become comfortable in the environment. We understand that it can be a stressful time for you as well, as you watch your child struggle to be away from the safety and comfort of home.

You may have concerns such as:

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“Will my child be taken care of?”

“What if he/she starts crying once I leave?”

“Why is my child hesitant to participate in activities? Are they having fun?” 

“Should I stay or leave and let them adapt with the support team?”

“I wonder if my child will eventually join in the activities...”

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It's important to know that separation anxiety is normal during early childhood. It usually begins around six to eight months of age and lasts until about two and a half to four years of age. (1)

In this newsletter, we want to provide you with a glimpse into some common thoughts and worries from children's perspectives when they display reluctance to leave you for school or activities. Understanding their point of view can help you empathize with their behaviors:

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"What is this new place? It's so big and noisy! I'm scared!"

"Where are all my friends? Who are all these people?"

"This isn't my regular school. Why are Mom and Dad leaving without me?"

"What are we going to do here?"

"Why is Mommy leaving me here? I don't know anyone!"

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Perhaps you can relate to these experiences of tearful goodbyes with your child. Let's remember that it is natural for your children to feel anxious in a new environment, especially without your presence. This also demonstrates the strength of your relationship and the bonds of trust they have with you as their parent or primary caregiver. While it's natural for parents to feel guilt in such circumstances, we can also view this as an opportunity to help your child learn to cope and grow in independence.

Here are some tips to help your child adapt better to new activities, people, and environments, with a focus on helping them find security through understanding and regulating their emotions with your support:

TELL YOUR CHILD WHAT TO EXPECT  IN THE NEW ENVIRONMENT

Imagine being left alone in an unfamiliar place surrounded by strangers. It can be scary! To ease this transition, have conversations with your child to let them know about the new activity or school they will be starting. Show them photos and videos, and discuss what they can expect beforehand.

DESCRIBE THE DAY AND PROVIDE REASSURANCES THAT YOU’LL PICK THEM UP AFTER

Share the schedule with your child, building excitement and anticipation for the upcoming activities. Running through the day's routines in advance allows them to feel a sense of control and security, especially on the first day in a new environment. Let them know when you'll be picking them up and how you'll spend the rest of the day together.

BRING AN OBJECT OF COMFORT

Help your child feel secure by allowing them to bring a small object that brings them comfort when they're away from you. It could be a favorite toy, a soft toy, a family photo, or even a favorite snack to enjoy during snack time.

MAKE GOODBYES HAPPY AND POSITIVE

Children are sensitive to our emotions. Express joy and excitement for their fun day ahead instead of allowing them to sense tension or worry. Smile, remind them of what they have to look forward to, and confidently wave goodbye.

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We understand that you and your child may be nervous about coming to camp, especially if it's your first time. Rest assured that we have outstanding and caring staff who will ensure your child is comfortable and settles into camp quickly. Taking care of your children is a huge responsibility, and we take it incredibly seriously. Our mission at Camp Beaumont is to create inspiring adventures throughout the school holidays, and to achieve that, we have highly trained camp staff on hand to help all campers settle in.

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