Preparing Your Child For Their First School Camp

School camps are an exciting milestone in every child’s life. They offer a unique opportunity for adventure, independence, and bonding with classmates outside the typical school environment. As parents, however, it’s common to feel a mix of emotions when camp time approaches.

Some children are excited, eager to hop on the bus without a second thought, while others may feel anxious or unsure about leaving home for a few days. Similarly, as a parent, you might be concerned about practical matters such as health, safety, and supervision. Both reactions are entirely normal.

At Good Shepherd we always ensure to provide up-to-date information weeks ahead of any scheduled camp, and with additional reminders on Seesaw or via email, but if you have specific worries, consider:

Sleep and Routines: Our school camps are well structured, including breaks and bedtimes, but if your child struggles with sleep, consider packing something familiar from home, such as their pillow or a small stuffed toy, to ease the transition. You could even set up a tent in the backyard on a weekend and practice at home!
Health and Medical Needs: Ensure that you follow the school’s medical policy by providing up-to-date information on any medical conditions, medications, allergies, or dietary restrictions your child may have through the TASS Parent Portal. This will involve submitting the necessary forms and providing any necessary medications properly labelled to the front office ahead of camp. Our school will always have qualified first aid staff on site at camp, and teachers will carry all relevant medical information and emergency contact details to ensure your child’s needs are met.
Safety and Supervision: Our school ensures a high standard of safety with clear adult-to-child ratios and well-planned activities at camp. If you’re still unsure, ask your child’s teacher or school administration staff for details on camp supervision policies. You can also view our child safe policies on this website.

Below are some additional helpful tips and advice to ease your concerns and ensure your child has a fun and fulfilling camp experience. Following these helpful tips, and with thoughtful preparation, you can ensure their first school camp is not only a positive experience, but a memorable one too.

1. Start the Conversation Early

As soon as you learn about the upcoming camp, talk to your child about it.

How do they feel?
Are they excited?
Are there any worries on their mind?

Acknowledge their feelings without dismissing their concerns. Reassure them that it’s okay to be nervous but also highlight the fun and positive aspects of camp, such as exploring the outdoors, making new friends, and trying new activities. By discussing camp early on, you can address any concerns and provide reassurance. Sharing your own positive experiences of camps or similar activities can also help build their confidence.

A young girl is practising archery and is aiming at a target.

2. Reduce the Sense of the Unknown

A schedule or an outline of activities can be helpful, especially for younger children. Your child’s teacher will typically provide an itinerary around 2-4 weeks before the camp. Walk through the details with your child so they know when camp starts, what they will be doing, and when they’ll return. This can help children feel more in control and less overwhelmed by the unfamiliar setting.

**Quick Tip** Google the camp location together. Let your child see pictures of the dormitories, kitchen, and activity areas to give them a clearer idea of what to expect.

Two young students are standing together outside. They are holding a large python while on school camp.

3. Practice Sleepovers

If your child hasn’t spent much time away from home, organising a few sleepovers with family members or friends can be an excellent way to prepare them for camp. These smaller, more familiar experiences will help them adjust to being away from their usual environment.

**Quick Tip** Encourage your child to pack a favourite soft toy or comfort item. They can tuck it into their sleeping bag for some quiet reassurance without drawing attention.

Three young students are in a tent and smiling at the camera.

4. Build Independence with Practical Skills

Help your child brush up on everyday tasks they’ll need at camp.

Can they organise and pack their own bag?
Can they do their own hair?
Can they brush their teeth unsupervised?
Can they make up their own bed or operate a torch?

Simple skills like these will boost their confidence and help them manage independently during camp.

A young male student on school camp is pictured washing dishes in a little tub.

5. Set Realistic Expectations

Not every moment of camp will be filled with excitement. There will likely be ups and downs, and that’s okay. Talk to your child about the possibility of missing home or feeling tired, and help them develop strategies to handle any challenges that may arise, like taking themselves to a quite space between activities. By setting realistic expectations, your child can approach the experience with a balanced mindset.

Students are outside hiding behind hay bales, wearing red helmets and holding paint ball guns, as part of a paint ball game on an obstacle course.

6. Prepare Together

As camp day approaches, work together to gather the necessary items from the school’s packing list. Have your child participate with shopping, labelling, and packing. Not only will this give them a sense of ownership, but they’ll also know exactly where everything is packed, making it easier for them to stay organised and (hopefully) bring everything home!

A young girl is outside. She is sitting on a chair and smiling while holding a lizard.

7. Communicate with School Staff

If you or your child have concerns about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out to the school. Staff members are experienced in taking children on school camps and understand the natural anxiety that can come with it. Discuss any worries you have, and they can provide additional reassurance or specific information to help ease concerns.

A young student is hanging by a safety harness on a large flying fox while on camp. She is wearing a blue helmet. She is smiling and waving at the camera.

8. Embrace the Adventure

School camps are an incredible opportunity for children to step out of their comfort zones, build friendships, and explore nature. With a little preparation, you can ensure that your child approaches their first camp with excitement and readiness, setting the stage for unforgettable experiences and personal growth.

**Quick Tip** Ensure your child gets a good night’s sleep before camp. Being well-rested will make it easier for them to tackle the adventures ahead with enthusiasm and resilience.

By working together, teachers and parents can create a positive and memorable camp experience that enriches children’s learning and independence.

Looking for a primary school that nurtures all aspects of your child’s development?

Discover our dynamic learning environment, supportive community, and commitment to individual growth by booking a Principal’s Tour today. Secure your child’s place and join a school where their full potential can truly flourish.