Is your teen nervous about going away to summer camp? Whether they are new or returning campers, deciding to go away to summer camp can be daunting for teens. 

This may come as a surprise to some readers, but teens are spending more hours a day at home now than in years past, and there are a few theories as to why. Firstly, screens provide entertainment at any hour of the day. Summer camp was often used to fill downtime during the summer, but there really isn't ever a reason to say "I'm bored" anymore; technology allows us to have endless entertainment at our fingertips. Between streaming accounts, social media, and online games, there's always something fun to do. Secondly, the pandemic shifted the world's view on time spent at home with friends and family, and there's been a surge in self-proclaimed "introverts." According to the Pew Research Institute, today's teens sleep more and spend more time on homework versus socializing or working. Texting and social media have made it possible to socialize anywhere and anytime, so while they may be socializing less outside of the home, they're still socializing, if not more, than before. In regard to work, many teens are postponing getting their jobs until after high school graduation in lieu of focusing their time and energy on their studies and special interests.

But you know it. And we know it: Summer camp is more than a time filler. 

Not only is it a time to rest and relax, but it's also an opportunity to self-reflect, grow in your relationship with the Lord, and meet new people face-to-face. So, if your teen is feeling anxious or unsure about this once-a-year opportunity, try out these tactics to prepare your teen for summer camp. You can gently and mentally prepare your teen for a traditional, all-American summer experience.

1. Visit the camp. If it's within driving distance, schedule a day trip to drive and see the campus. Make a day of it by planning a lunch at a fun restaurant or shopping for supplies. If it's not possible, do a virtual tour. Order pizza and spend the evening digging through the camp's website and social media accounts. 
2. Share your own experiences and stories. Make this a fun experience, and include your spouse for added support. Pull out some of your old camp photos and make a PowerPoint. Add popcorn and soda for a full cinematic experience!
3. Schedule a Zoom call with a camp director or staff member. This may be especially helpful if your teen has a mental health diagnosis and has specific concerns or fears that need to be addressed. Having a trusted adult at camp can provide them with a safety net in the event they begin to feel anxious, sad, or stressed while away.
4. Stay positive and provide continuous encouragement. It's not uncommon for teens to have wavering confidence. You may have a conversation where you leave thinking they are on board, only to find out the next day they are reconsidering again. 

If it's on your heart, we encourage you to try out one of these methods to prepare your teen for summer camp. Teens today may have entertainment at their fingertips 24/7, but there isn't anything that beats a week of singing worship songs, sharing testimonies, and leaning into Him with fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.