Camp Sick – Tips for your child returning back home after camp!

August 10, 2026    Camp News Camp Wekeela Camps in Maine Maine Summer Camps Testimonials 0 Comments

Please know, coming home from camp is a big transition — not just for your camper, but for you, too. As exciting as it is to have them back, it’s important to give them space to adjust. Here are a few helpful DO’s and DON’Ts to keep in mind:

DON’T: Over Schedule

Your child may be exhausted. The end of camp is often packed with high-energy events, and the final night is usually emotional — with little sleep as campers stay up late saying goodbye, sharing memories, and writing bus/plane notes for the trip home. Wake ups on departure day may also begin early.

Tip: Hold off on restaurant outings, extended family visits, or any big plans. Skip the appointment the next morning — chances are, they’ll want to sleep in. A lot.

DON’T: Over-Grill or Interrogate

It’s natural to want to hear everything right away — but your child may not be ready to share it just yet. Camp is a special world, and stepping out of that “camp bubble” takes time.

Tip: Keep it low-key. Trust that stories will come — sometimes days, weeks, or even months later. Let them lead.

DO: Anticipate “Campsickness”

Leaving camp can be hard. Campers form deep friendships, build independence, and experience joy in a unique way. It’s normal to feel a little down after it ends — a feeling often called “campsickness.”

Tip: Some kids will bounce back quickly; others may need time to adjust. Let them take the lead in staying in touch with camp friends — whether it’s FaceTime, phone calls, or just reminiscing

DO: Learn about camp traditions.

Your camper will come home with a lot of stories and new cheers, learn them and engage in them – you may have fun yourself!

Tip: Just go along with it, you may not have a clue what the chants are, but if you get excited your camper will appreciate it!

DON’T: Overstress on lost & found.

Stuff will get lost at camp, it’s natural with so many people. Don’t get too worried.

Tip: Wash everything that comes home in their bag.

DO: Give your camper big hugs and kisses, they missed you too!

They will want affection and attention (even teenagers), you missed them and that is perfectly normal

Tip: Make sure to get the contact sheets so you can connect with their camp friend’s parents too.

Bottom Line:

Let them ease back in. Give them space, sleep, and time. The stories (and the smiles) will come.