Sending your child to camp is a big milestone—for you and for them. As parents, we want to make the transition smooth, and often that means preparing our kids with the right mindset. But sometimes, in our effort to comfort, we say things that unintentionally set our campers up for struggle rather than success.

As parents, it’s natural to want our children to know how deeply we love them—and sometimes we try to express that by saying how much we’ll miss them while they’re away. Phrases like “I don’t know what I’ll do without you,” or “It’s going to be so quiet and lonely here,” or “I’ll be counting down the days until you get home” often come from a place of love. But to your child, those words can feel like a heavy suitcase of guilt they’re bringing with them to camp. Instead of helping them feel secure, these well-meaning sentiments can make them worry about how you’re doing without them and prevent them from fully engaging in camp.

This is what we call a “pick-up deal”—and it may be made with love, but it can undermine your camper’s confidence before they’ve even packed their bag. When a child hears this, what they often take away is, “I don’t think you can handle this” or “If it’s hard, you should quit.” And that’s not the message we want them to carry into such an important experience.

Camp is about more than just fun—it’s about growth.

Yes, your camper will play games, make crafts, sing songs, swim in the lake, and laugh a lot. They’ll try new activities, roast marshmallows, and form friendships they’ll never forget. But they’ll also encounter moments that stretch them. They may miss home or be uncomfortable at times. They might have to compromise with new friends or try something that makes them nervous. And through it all, they’ll grow. They’ll gain confidence. They’ll learn resilience. They’ll build independence. That’s the real magic of camp—and it starts with how you talk about it.

Here’s what to say instead:

• “You’re going to have so much fun!”

• “I can’t wait to hear all about the friends you make and the things you try.”

• “You might miss us a little—and that’s okay. We’ll be cheering you on from home!”

• “If you feel nervous or sad, your counselors and cabin friends are there to help you.”

• “You are so ready for this adventure.”

Here’s the good news - At Camp Highlander, Campers feel like they belong from day one.

Our first priority is making every camper feel welcome, safe, and part of something special. As soon as your child steps out of the car and through the camp tunnel, they’re met with excitement, warmth, and a community ready to embrace them. Their cabin becomes their home—a place where they can be themselves, try new things, and be celebrated for who they are. From the very first day, we help campers build friendships, gain confidence, and feel like they belong.

As a parent, the best gift you can give your child before camp isn’t a promise to rescue them—it’s a vote of confidence in their strength and spirit. So speak encouragement, speak excitement, and speak belief in their ability to handle both the highs and the hard parts of this adventure.

Because when you do, your camper will walk into Camp Highlander not just ready for fun—but ready to grow into exactly who they’re meant to be.