He knew certain things about sending the children to camp. He knew they would pass a lot of time outdoors and that they would try new things. Meet new people and learn more about something you love. They would swim and laugh and stay up very late. These are the things I knew.
But after seeing how they arrive from the camp you learn to see more surprising things, things that had not crossed your mind.
Beyond the fun and the food, the stories by the campfire and the games they play that make them feel happy, these are the things I didn't see coming. And I'm going to start with the most difficult.
- They struggled, but it was worth it. I know this is not what we want for them, but it's actually a good thing. Think of a time when you had to work very hard for something. Once you failed and tried again. What happened? you learned You persevered. You got stronger. Yes, in the camp there was a fight. Maybe they didn't get the top bunk the way they wanted or couldn't stand up on the water skis. Maybe they missed their home. Much. But they made a friend who helped them feel less alone. Whatever the fight, it's a growth opportunity they wouldn't have had at home. And that makes the fight worthwhile.
- Speaking of growing up, they grew! They left looking like your baby, and somehow they come home looking more grown up. It doesn't matter if they were gone all summer or two days. Independence makes them grow. (Side note: They will still be your baby.)
- That last hug and that first hug are the best you've had in a long time, especially if your child is a preteen or teen. The hug just before they leave may be stronger than you imagined, so hug tight. And when they come back, just having your arms around them again, well, that's just magical.
- They suck. It doesn't matter if they went to day camp or spent three weeks in a cabin. Hygiene is different in the camp. Let's face it: it's almost non-existent. But they survived and you can send them straight into the shower when they get home.
- The laundry will surprise you. Somehow all your clothes will smell like wet gym shoes left in a trash can in the sun for a week. Not surprising considering they probably wear the same clothes most of the time and don't bother to change. General rule of thumb: if you went camping, wash it off. Clothes, sleeping bags, themselves. Everything is washed.
- They need to sleep. You will want to know everything. And they will be happy to tell you. For exactly 15 minutes. And then they will fall into a deep sleep, maybe even fall asleep through dinner and not wake up until the next day. There's nothing wrong with that: they're just exhausted from their adventures. It's okay though, because you'll go in and check on them like you did when they were little, brushing their hair back and kissing them on the forehead.
- They have friends you don't know. They met people. They made new friends. They will talk about these people as if you knew them. Just play along with them. It's easier for everyone.
- The money all went to the camp store, it was the best. And yes, they spent it all on candy. They'll be fine. Nothing happens for a few days...
- Your letters/emails/texts meant more to you than to them. If they don't remember what you wrote or just throw a nod of thanks your way, those communications served their purpose: They reminded them that you're always there for them and made you feel more connected.
- Even if it was “the best week of their life”, they are glad to be home. They spent the whole week on the go-go-go. Now, they have returned to where they are safe and loved and can relax. And they appreciate that too, even if they are not aware of it.