Episode Details

Camp is packed with little social landmines that adults forget are even there. Where can I sit? Can I touch someone’s stuff? How do I join a game without getting shut down? If your child is heading to summer camp and you’re worried they might feel overwhelmed, I share a simple way to prepare them for what camp really demands: the hidden rules.

We talk through practical camp readiness skills that help kids feel steady fast, including personal space, respecting belongings, staying with the group, following directions, hygiene, and handling homesickness. For kids with social challenges, ADHD, executive function struggles, or communication differences, we get extra concrete: practice conversations and quick role-plays like “Can I sit here?” “Can I play too?” and “Can I help?” These tiny scripts can prevent big blowups and make friendship moments feel doable.

We also cover an essential pre-camp topic many parents avoid: personal safety. I explain how to keep the conversation age-appropriate and calm while still being clear about body safety rules, okay touch vs not okay touch, and why kids never need to keep secrets about uncomfortable situations. You’ll also hear where to find trusted resources designed for our community.

If you want your kid to pack more than socks and toiletries, this is your reminder to pack their social toolbox too. Subscribe, share this with a friend who’s sending a child to camp, and leave a review so more families can find these summer camp parenting tips.