Not long ago, I placed my son Ethan on a bus heading to an overnight camp for two months. To be completely candid, the decision to send him was not entirely voluntary for either of us. While Ethan expressed enthusiasm at first, as the departure date neared, he changed his mind, and I found myself questioning whether this was the right choice. Although it may be a fantastic experience for him, I find myself grappling with some significant challenges of overnight camp. Here are my primary concerns:
1. Scarcity of Photos
Ethan seems to evade the camp photographer with the same fervor he reserves for avoiding chores. I diligently search nearly 1500 photographs every day, and I’m fortunate if I catch a glimpse of him in a crowd shot.
2. Impact of Few Photos
The limited photos I do find are scrutinized like critical evidence. Where most would see a clean uniform, I start to worry that he might not be eating, which could explain the absence of food stains. This leads me to wonder if he hasn’t changed clothes in days.
3. The Camp Letters I Receive
Ethan can tackle complex math problems, yet he struggles with the basics of sending a letter. I’ve had to send him diagrams on how to properly address an envelope, as all family members received letters missing return addresses, with the addressee and stamp inexplicably placed on the back. So far, I’ve received three letters: one requesting his tennis racket, another describing rainy weather and asking if I received his letters, and the third, a complaint about a bunkmate, signed “Respectfully, Ethan Bennett.”
4. The Letters I Send
Writing letters to my camper is no small feat when you must avoid sharing updates about home, lest you stir feelings of homesickness. Instead, my letters are filled with questions about his camp life, based solely on what I’ve gathered from the camp website photos. “I saw there were camp activities last weekend—what team were you on? Did you win any events? Have you gone canoeing? What are your counselors’ names?” I know he might not even read them and could toss them upon discovering there are no surprises hidden within.
5. The Dread of Visiting Day
Ah, Visiting Day—the source of my anxiety. I miss my son dearly and long to see him, but why do parents visit three weeks into camp, just as the kids are becoming comfortable? This setup feels cruel, as all the progress they’ve made in adjusting to camp life could be undone in a few short hours. I can’t help but picture a counselor prying Ethan off our car windshield as we drive away. If anyone knows of a case of chicken pox, please send it my way; I’m eager for a harmless excuse to avoid this emotional ordeal.
6. The Void Left by His Absence
This spring, there were countless moments when Ethan’s antics tested my patience, and I thought, “Just one more month until I get a breather!” However, I was utterly unprepared for the stillness that enveloped our home without him. Each time I glance at his tidy room, I’m reminded of how much I miss his lively, chaotic presence.
Despite these challenges, I genuinely believe sending Ethan to camp was the best decision for him. The photos reveal a happy child—enthusiastically participating in sports he’s never tried, bonding with new friends, and engaging in camp activities. My son confronted his fears of being away from home and came out thriving.
So, perhaps I don’t actually hate overnight camp after all.
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Summary:
Navigating the emotional landscape of sending a child to overnight camp can be challenging for parents. From the scarcity of photos and the peculiarities of letter-writing to the anxiety surrounding visiting day and the palpable void left at home, the experience is fraught with mixed feelings. Yet, the positive impact on the child’s growth and confidence can outweigh the difficulties, leading to a deeper understanding of the benefits of such experiences.
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