How to Know When Your Child Is Ready for Camp: A Gentle Guide to Growing Independence

Sending your child to camp—especially for the first time—can feel like a big step. For many parents, the question isn’t just “Which camp is best?” but “Is my child ready?”

At Camp Mákemáke, we believe readiness isn’t measured by age or how tough your child seems—it’s found in small, everyday signs of growing independence.

It’s in the little moments: when your child packs their own overnight bag, remembers to feed the dog without being reminded, or starts talking excitedly about meeting new friends. These subtle milestones often point to something bigger: your child is ready for a new kind of adventure—one where they can explore, grow, and thrive in a place that feels uniquely theirs.

As Dr. Maria Montessori wisely said, “Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed.” Camp offers children the space to try, stumble, and succeed on their own—supported by mentors who believe in them every step of the way.

Here are a few key signs your child might be ready for the camp experience:

🌿 1. They’re curious about spending time away from homeIf your child talks about sleepovers, class trips, or asks what camp is like, that curiosity is a sign they’re beginning to feel confident in new environments.

🔄 2. They can follow basic routinesBeing able to get dressed, brush teeth, or tidy their belongings without too much prompting shows your child is learning to take responsibility for themselves—a big part of daily life at camp.

🗣️ 3. They know how to ask for helpThis is a huge milestone in emotional maturity. If your child can speak up when they’re unsure, uncomfortable, or need assistance, they’re equipped with one of the most important tools for being away from home: self-advocacy.

🤝 4. They’re open to new people and experiencesCamp is all about connection. If your child shows interest in making new friends, trying unfamiliar activities, or exploring the outdoors, they’re likely ready to dive into camp life with curiosity and openness.

🧘 5. They’re learning to manage emotionsIndependence doesn’t mean being emotionless—it means recognizing feelings and knowing how to cope with them. If your child can express when they’re sad, anxious, or excited—and accept support—they’re building the emotional toolkit to adapt and thrive at camp.

It’s perfectly normal for both children and parents to feel a little nervous before that first drop-off. But readiness doesn’t mean being fearless—it means being willing. At Camp Mákemáke, we meet children right where they are, and help them grow from there—with muddy shoes, forest trails, and warm campfire circles along the way.