Even for young children who have been in a day care, preschool, or school environment, the idea of going to a day camp program may intimidate a child and cause anxiety. Carol E. Watkins, M.D. in “Separation Anxiety in Young Children,” published January 1, 2001 on HealthyPlace.com, points out that in some preschoolers, the anxiety of watching a parent leave them may last three to four minutes. If a parent prepares a child for the new environment ahead of time, the process can be made smoother.
Factors That May Contribute to Separation Anxiety
Watkins lists a variety of causes for separation anxiety in young children, not all actually deal with a child missing a parent’s presence. Family changes such as the birth of a sibling, a divorce, death, or a family member’s illness can all contribute to a child feeling anxious. These things can’t be changed, nor should the child be shielded from the information. Let the instructor know what is going on in the child’s life before showing up on the first day, this way, both they and the parent can come up with actions that could help the child.
Also, let the instructors know if there are changes to the household routine. This could be anything from visiting relatives to a parent’s new job or work schedule. If a child is tired because of lack of sleep, a recent return from vacation, or an exerting weekend, let the instructor know to expect some crankiness. If the child is in a new environment, the staff won’t know how the child normally behaves and may judge them as difficult.
Get Ready for the First Day of Camp
To Prepare a Preschooler or Kindergartener for a Day Camp Experience, help the child learn what to expect of where he will be going. Visit the site in advance of attending the camp. Even though camp may not be in session, see if there is someone on staff who can welcome the child and perhaps point out where the child will sit at lunch, play games, listen to stories, etc. A to-the-minute schedule isn’t necessary, but it can be helpful to know that the day starts with songs and segues into a story.
Also, make certain that the child has everything he needs for camp. Even for a day camp experience, children may need to bring a raincoat or an extra change of underwear. Young children may feel better if they have a small stuffed animal to play with or talk to if they don’t know any other child at the camp.
Additional Ways to Reduce a Fear of Change
Avoid sending a child to a different program each week. By the time he learns one routine, a new one is being presented to him. The child may feel uncomfortable dealing with new counselors, new campers, new expectations, and a new location. If a child is attending multiple weeks of camp, keep it at one or no more than two sites.
If appropriate, allow the child to help shop for a new item to take with him to camp – perhaps new sneakers or a backpack. Help build the child’s excitement and understanding that he will be in a new environment.
Perhaps the most difficult thing for parents is to avoid giving in and removing the child from the camp after observing crying, screaming, and clinging for several minutes. Reassure the child that he will be okay. Avoid belittling the child for his anxiety. Avoid prolonging the departure or returning to the area to check on the child. Parents should also avoid sneaking away from the area while the child is being distracted by the instructor.
Ask a staff person to gently hold the child so the parent can leave without being followed. Call after an hour to check on the child’s status. Parents can also create a ritual with the child to indicate that they are going their separate ways for several hours. This, however, needs to be established before the child feels trepidation in the new environment.
Young children may feel anxious about entering into a day camp setting. By allowing the child to know what to expect and, if necessary, leaving the child in a firm and loving way, the child can enjoy the new experience of being in camp.
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