Questions Kids Ask About Camp

"Will I make friends? What if I don't like the food? What if I miss you?" Here's how to answer the questions they're actually asking—and the fears behind them.

A Quick Note Before We Start

When kids ask questions about camp, they're often not looking for detailed information— they're looking for reassurance. Answer the question they asked, but also address the feeling behind it.

Questions About Making Friends

"What if nobody likes me?"

This is the #1 fear. What they're really asking: "Will I belong?"

Try saying: "Making friends at camp is actually easier than at school. You're all living together, doing fun stuff together, and everyone is a little nervous at first— so everyone is looking for friends. Your cabin mates will become your friends because you'll share so much together."

"What if my cabin mates are mean?"

They're worried about being stuck with bullies.

Try saying: "Your counselor is there to make sure everyone is treated well. If someone is being mean, you tell your counselor and they'll handle it. But honestly? Most kids at camp are there because they want to have fun, and being mean isn't fun for anyone. You'll probably be surprised how nice people are."

"What if I don't know anyone?"

This is actually an advantage in disguise.

Try saying: "That's the cool thing about camp—everyone is starting fresh. Nobody knows anyone's history. You get to just be yourself, and people will like you for who you are right now. Some of the best friendships happen when both people are new."

Questions About Missing Home

"What if I miss you too much?"

They need to know missing home is normal AND manageable.

Try saying: "You probably will miss us sometimes—that's totally normal and it means you love us. But here's what happens: you'll be so busy doing fun stuff that the missing feeling doesn't stick around long. It's like when you're having a great time at a friend's house and you kind of forget to think about home. Most kids feel homesick for a little bit, and then they're having too much fun to keep feeling it."

"Can I call you if I'm sad?"

Be honest about the phone policy, but reframe it.

Try saying: "Camp has rules about phone calls so kids can really be present and make friends instead of calling home constantly. But if something is really wrong, the counselors can help you talk to us. What helps more is knowing I'll be writing you letters, and you can write back, and before you know it, you'll be home telling me all your stories."

"Can you come get me if I hate it?"

This is tricky. Don't promise an easy exit, but don't dismiss their fear either.

Try saying: "I really believe you're going to like it, even if the first day or two feels hard. Let's make a deal: give it an honest try. Do all the activities, try to make friends, and give it a couple days. If something is really, truly wrong—like you're sick or unsafe—of course we can talk about it. But usually kids who feel like quitting on day two are having the time of their lives by day four."

Questions About Sleep & Nighttime

"What if I can't fall asleep?"

Try saying: "The first night might feel a little strange because you're in a new place. That's normal. But you'll be so tired from all the running around and activities that your body will want to sleep. Plus, your counselor will be right there in the cabin if you need anything. By the second night, it'll feel normal."

"Will it be dark and scary?"

Try saying: "It might be darker than home because camps are often in the woods, but that's also part of the adventure. You'll have a flashlight, and there are usually night lights or pathway lights. Plus, you're not alone—there's a whole cabin of kids and a counselor right there. And the stars are amazing when it's that dark!"

"What about my nightlight/stuffed animal/special thing?"

Try saying: "You can absolutely bring your [stuffed animal/blanket]. Lots of kids bring something from home—it's not babyish. It's smart. Just pick something you wouldn't be devastated to lose, since things sometimes get mixed up at camp."

Questions About Food

"What if I don't like the food?"

Try saying: "Camp food is usually pretty kid-friendly—think hamburgers, pizza, chicken nuggets, pasta. There's almost always something you'll recognize. And usually there's a salad bar or other options if you don't like the main thing. You won't starve, I promise. And honestly? Food tastes better when you're super hungry from activities."

"What about my allergies?"

Try saying: "We've already told the camp about your allergies, and they have it on your health form. The kitchen knows what you can't eat and they'll make sure you have safe options. Your counselor knows too. A lot of kids have allergies at camp—they're used to handling it."

Questions About Activities

"What if I'm bad at stuff?"

Try saying: "Camp isn't school—nobody is grading you. Most activities are things almost everyone is learning for the first time. Nobody expects you to be good at archery on day one. The counselors are there to teach you, and everyone is learning together. The point is to try new things, not to be perfect at them."

"What if I'm scared to try something?"

Try saying: "You don't have to do anything that feels truly unsafe to you. But here's what I hope you'll try: when something feels a little scary, see if you can try it anyway. That scared feeling before you try something new is often followed by a really proud feeling after you do it. The counselors won't force you, but they'll encourage you. Some of the best camp memories come from doing things you almost didn't try."

What They're Really Asking

Behind all these questions is usually one big question: "Will I be okay?"

Your job isn't to guarantee a perfect experience—it's to communicate that you believe in their ability to handle whatever comes. Your confidence gives them confidence.

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