Getting Ready for School Camp

At Holy Cross School, we’re approaching that exciting time of year when our Grade 5 and Grade 6 students head off to school camp. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to learn, grow, and explore in a fun and supportive environment away from home.

Why camp is such a great experience?

Camp offers so much more than just fun and games. It also helps students develop important life skills, such as:

• Making new friends and working as a team, students connect across their whole year level.
• Developing independence as they take more responsibility for their own self-care.
• Trying new things and learning practical skills as they engage in a range new of activities.
• Building resilience and self-confidence, as they face new challenges.

However, as the camp date gets closer, some students may start to feel nervous about being away from home, even those who usually seem quite confident. Some common worries that students have talked about include:

• Who will I share a dormitory or cabin with?
• What happens if I don’t get teamed with my friends?
• What if I feel homesick?
• Will I like the food there?
• What if I can't do the activities?

What we do know is that with a bit of preparation, and extra support for those who need it, you can help your child feel more confident, comfortable, and ready for the adventure ahead.

Here are some tips to help your child feel camp-ready:

Involve them in packing

When you get the list of what to pack, ask them to help you find (or shop for) what they need. Then label everything together so they know what belongs to them. It's good for them to help prepare and pack, but this also helps them be aware of all the things that need to come back home!

Pack a little comfort

For some students, taking something that they find comforting and will help them settle at night can be very beneficial e.g., packing a favourite small soft toy from home can help ease anxious thoughts. The toy can be placed at the bottom of a sleeping bag, so your child has the comfort of knowing it is there, without having to let the rest of the camp know! Some children also like to wear a parent’s t-shirt or jumper to sleep in.

Write a short note

A short letter or a funny bedtime note from you can make them feel special and supported while they’re away.

Explore the camp together online

Visit the camp websites with your child to help them picture what the place looks like. Seeing the cabins, dining areas, and bathrooms ahead of time can ease worries.

• • Grade 5 Camp: Camp Paterson
  • Grade 6 Camp: Barron River Campus

Talk with their teacher
If your child has specific worries, reach out to their teacher so we can plan any extra support they may need.

Be positive and encouraging
Let your child know you believe they’ll have a great time. Tell them you’re looking forward to hearing all about it when they get back!

Listen to their worries
If your child shares a worry, focus on listening and letting them know their feelings are valid. Sometimes, just feeling heard is all they need.

Camp is a wonderful chance for your child to discover new strengths, build confidence, and grow in ways that aren’t always possible in the classroom. Many children come home full of stories, new friendships, and a renewed sense of independence, ready to take on even bigger adventures ahead.