Everyone gets homesick from time to time, but if your child seems especially shy, anxious, or clingy, you may fear that he or she isn't ready for an overnight trip. However, camp gives many kids their first taste of independence in a safe and supervised environment, which teaches them that living away from Mom and Dad isn't as scary as it seems.

Camp counselors are highly trained in dealing with homesickness, and they know how to comfort, encourage, and distract campers with fun games. By the end of the week, you may find that your nervous child doesn't want to leave!

Communicate with your kids about their fears, and if they call you on the second day, gently encourage them to give it another shot. If they’re just not ready, try sending them to a day camp as “practice” before they attempt an overnight one.