You’ve packed the lunch, labeled the water bottle, and even tracked down that one sock your child insists on wearing for “good luck.” Camp day is here—but your child is still hovering near the door with camp anxiety.

“What if I don’t make any friends?”

If that question sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Whether your child is off to a half-day art program or a full week of day camp, it’s completely normal for nerves to show up alongside the excitement. And as a parent or educator, it can be hard to know how to help.

But with a little preparation—and your presence—you can help shift their mindset from worry to readiness.

In my work with families, I’ve noticed a small strategy that makes a big difference: kids who draw their own daily timeline often feel calmer. Seeing what’s ahead takes some of the edge off the unknown.

Why Uncertainty Feels So Big

Kids rely on routines. So when their typical structure gets swapped for something new, their sense of control can take a hit. Camp jitters aren’t usually about the activities themselves—it’s the unfamiliar pieces: new faces, new rules, new rhythms.

For neurodivergent kids or those with executive functioning challenges, that unpredictability can feel even more overwhelming. The good news? A little clarity can go a long way in helping them feel grounded.

Steps to Build Predictability & Confidence

These strategies don’t require fancy tools—just a bit of time and a willingness to meet your child where they are.

1. Walk Through the Camp Day

Start by looking through any welcome emails or handouts from the camp together. Then sketch out a rough outline of the day on paper:

• Drop-off
• Crafts
• Snack
• Outdoor play
• Pick-up

Talk through each part: “After crafts, you’ll grab your water bottle and head outside for games.”

  Why it helps: A visual plan turns abstract ideas into something your child can picture and prepare for. It gives them a sense of control in a new setting and helps ease camp anxiety.

2. Role-Play the Little Moments

Some kids worry most about the social parts of camp. Try a little low-key role-play to help them feel more ready:

• Practice saying, “Hi, I’m ____. Can I join you?”
• Act out asking for help if something’s unclear
• Use dolls, toys, or even drawn stick figures to model friendly group play

You can even create a short social story: “First, I get my name tag. Then I go to the table. I say hello. Then I sit and start the craft.”

Why it helps: These mini rehearsals make unfamiliar moments feel more manageable. You’re giving them a script to reach for if nerves kick in.

3. Pack Together, Not in a Rush

Let your child help pack their bag the day before. It doesn’t have to be complicated:

• Choose a favourite snack or a small comfort item
• Use a visual checklist to go over what’s packed
• Label everything together

If your child benefits from sensory support, consider adding:

• A squeeze ball or textured fidget
• Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs

  Why it helps: Being involved in packing gives your child a sense of readiness. It’s about helping them feel equipped, not overwhelmed.

4. Create a Drop-Off Ritual You Both Like

Mornings can be chaotic, but a small, consistent goodbye ritual can help both of you start the day on a steadier note.

• A note in their lunchbox
• A quick hug or high five
• A goodbye phrase you always use

5. Let Them Know It’s Okay to Feel Nervous

Sometimes the best thing we can do is simply normalize what they’re feeling.

• Say, “It’s okay to be nervous. That just means something important is happening.”
• Share a personal story—something from your own childhood, or even your first day at a new job
• Remind them: “Lots of kids feel camp anxiety before it starts—it’s part of being brave and it usually gets better after the first day or two.”

  Why it helps: Validating emotions shows them they don’t have to hide their feelings. It builds trust—and helps those feelings move through.

A Hopeful Next Step

Camp can be an amazing opportunity: new friends, fresh experiences, and a boost in independence. But like any big transition, it takes a bit of work to get there. A few simple routines, a little planning, and a lot of empathy can help your child step into the unknown feeling supported and brave.

Try this today: Draw out a simple “day at camp” timeline together and let your child decorate it. Giving them ownership over the process can turn worry into something more manageable—and even fun.

If your child continues to struggle with executive functioning challenges that extend beyond typical pre-camp jitters, professional support can make a significant difference. West Coast Centre for Learning offers specialized summer camps and programs designed to help children develop these crucial skills in a supportive environment. Additionally, fall programs are now enrolling with a 10% early-bird discount available until August 15, providing ongoing support for students who benefit from structured, evidence-based approaches to learning and development.

About the Author

Kelly Satran (BA, BEd, MEd, MSc) Kelly is an educator with a heart for helping learners grow. She holds a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Education, and Master’s in Education and Pediatric Psychosocial Care. Completing her studies at Brock University and McMaster University, Kelly brings over five years of hands-on teaching experience to her work. As a former special education resource teacher and current academic tutor in Niagara, Kelly is passionate about equipping learners with the tools they need to succeed, especially those who may need extra support.

As an executive functioning coach for West Coast Centre for Learning, Kelly specializes in helping students develop crucial organizational and self-regulation skills through personalized, strengths-based approaches.