Page 6 - 2026 Camp Emerson Family Handbook

responsibility for keeping their living areas clean, that there are scheduled activities, etc. If your child
asks a question you can
’t answer, call us! We
’
re happy to give you more information and discuss
strategies to help your child successfully transition to camp. Here are a few strategies to support your
camper:
➢
Simulate Camp At Home. Especially supportive for younger campers! Make preparation for
camp a family bonding opportunity. Camp out in the living room! Share highs and lows at the end
of the day. Arrange a sleepover with a friend so your child can experience sleeping outside their
home. Have a night where everyone sleeps in a sleeping bag!
➢
Visit Camp. Visit if possible! This is an opportunity for you to meet our staff, tour camp, ask
questions, and build excitement. We are also happy to come meet you at your home, video chat, or
talk on the phone. Call or email us to arrange a meeting.
➢
Provide Camp Emerson With Complete Information. It is imperative that camp has complete,
accurate information about any emotional, behavioral, medical, or physical situations your
camper may be experiencing. Withholding such information handicaps our ability to effectively
care for your camper. Disclosure significantly increases your camper
’
s chances for success and
happiness at camp. We take confidentiality very seriously and take many measures to protect your
camper
’
s information.
➢
Limit Screen Time Before Camp. Virtual experiences (social media, video games, etc.) release
dopamine, a hormone that causes humans to feel pleasure. The more dopamine released in the
brain, the more addicting a device or game, and the less appealing or dull the real world can seem
afterwards. Intense video games can especially trigger the release of large amounts of cortisol and
adrenaline. This can fatigue the prefrontal cortex, impairing children
’
s ability to make decisions
and regulate emotions, two skills essential for navigating the complex landscape of summer
camp. Furthermore, kids can feel discomfort when transitioning from heavy screen time to
screen free spaces. We suggest limiting screen time in the week leading up to camp to ensure
your child is as comfortable and engaged as possible when they arrive on check-in day.
How To Say Goodbye
Saying goodbye to your child at camp is a precious and personal moment. Many parents suddenly feel
emotional when this moment arrives. This is good! It means you love and care for your child very much.
When saying goodbye, it is important to focus on how to best transition your camper to their first
moments without you at camp. Here are some suggestions:
➢
Express your love. Your love is critical to your camper
’
s self-esteem and self-confidence.
➢
Be confident and positive about the camp experience. If you express doubts about leaving
them, they will have doubts about leaving you.
➢
Practice. If you know that saying goodbye to your child will be hard for you, that’
s ok! Practicing
what you will say with a partner, friend, or another family member will be helpful when the
moment arrives.
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