2. Bullies
Empower your kids with the knowledge that bullies exist everywhere, and the skills to either walk away or stand up for themselves. Unfortunately, bullies often target those who express their homesickness (see above), so let your child know that, if this happens, it probably means the bully is feeling even more homesick than they are! “For over 100 years camps and schools have patted homesick kids on the back, tried to keep them busy and hoped it will go away,” says Dr. Thurber. Knowing that the emotional needs of children at camp can easily be overlooked, encourage your child to be compassionate with others, but to also conduct him or herself with firm self-preservation.
