How Can Parents Support Campers Through Feeling “Camp Sick?”

If your child comes home from sleepaway camp a little quieter or even sad, you are not alone. Many kids experience what’s often called “camp sickness” like homesickness, but in reverse. After weeks of laughter, routines, and friendships, coming home can feel like a transition.

As both a clinician and a parent of three campers, I see this every summer. Families are eager to get back into schedules, activities, and school prep but emotionally, campers may still be holding onto their camp world. Recognizing this as a common adjustment can help parents respond with patience and support.

Why Kids Feel “Camp Sick”

• Loss of the Bubble – Camp is a unique environment with constant activity and connection. Home life often feels quieter and less predictable.

• Friendship Gaps – Camp friendships form quickly and run deep. Campers may worry about staying close without daily contact.

• Leaving a Stronger Self Behind – At camp, children often take risks, try new things, and feel encouraged to take healthy risks. Returning home can feel like stepping away from that version of themselves, this could feel like loss of this side of themselves, grief even.

• Adjusting Back Home, Pace – After weeks of singing, cheering, and constant chatter, home may feel almost too quiet.

How Parents Can Help

• Validate Feelings – Let your child know it’s okay to feel sad about leaving camp. Try: “I can see how much you miss camp. That’s because it gave you so many great memories.”

• Keep Camp Connections Alive – Encourage calls, texts, or visits to camp friends. Look through photos and let them share stories (even if you don’t fully get the inside jokes).

• Create a Transition Tradition – Mark their return with a favorite meal, a family outing, or a small celebration of their summer.

• Look Ahead – Talk about next summer or recreate little camp traditions at home like “taco Tuesday” "canteen" or “campfire movie night.”

• Ease Back into Routine – Give them space for downtime while gently reintroducing school-year structure and expectations, with the schedule in mind, of course.

Choosing the Right Camp

Finding a camp that fits your child’s personality and needs makes a big difference. When children feel connected, the transition home becomes part of a positive growth experience that builds resilience year after year.