Hey, Mom and Dad—
Let's talk about something parents rarely admit out loud: you're allowed to enjoy the time your child is at camp.
In fact, you should enjoy it.
This might be the final post in our series on managing "childsickness" (that's what camp experts Chris Thurber and Jon Malinowski call it in The Summer Camp Handbook), but it might be the most important one. Because here's the truth: when you take care of yourself and genuinely enjoy your time while your child is away, you model healthy independence—for both of you.
So far in this series, we've covered five strategies for easing separation anxiety during your child's camp stay. Today, we're wrapping up with two more essential tips that give you permission to do something radical: relax.
Stay Busy (But Not Too Busy)
Having plans when your child is at camp matters. Even if your plan is simply "quiet time at home," claim it. Schedule it. Do it.
Maybe you have other kids at home who aren't attending camp this year—this is your chance to give them individual attention they don't usually get. Or maybe you're finally taking that vacation you've been postponing, or catching up with friends you haven't seen in months.
Even if your daily routine doesn't change much during your child's camp session, find pockets of joy:
- See that movie everyone's been talking about
- Tackle the project you've been putting off for months
- Meet a friend for coffee without checking your watch every five minutes
- Take a day trip somewhere you've always wanted to explore
None of this will keep your mind completely off your child—and that's fine. But staying busy helps you think positively and reminds you that life continues (and thrives) even when you're apart.
Take Care of Yourself
Here's your permission slip: take time that's just for you.
Read the book that's been sitting on your nightstand. Take a bath without anyone knocking on the door. Go for a walk without a destination. Sleep in. Binge the show your kid hates. Order takeout and eat it straight from the container.
These quiet moments don't come around often. When they do, don't waste them feeling guilty.
Some parents struggle with this. They feel selfish enjoying themselves while their child is away. But let's reframe that thinking: Your child isn't doing something dangerous or unsupervised. They're having the time of their life at summer camp—making friends, learning skills, growing more independent by the day.
If they're out there enjoying themselves (and they are), why shouldn't you do the same?
Taking care of yourself during camp isn't selfish—it's essential. You're recharging so you can show up fully present when they return home, bursting with stories you can't wait to hear.
The Takeaway
Camp is a gift for your child—a chance to grow, explore, and discover who they are away from home.
But it's also a gift for you—a chance to rediscover who you are beyond "Mom" or "Dad," to rest, to reconnect with your partner or friends, and to appreciate the space that lets you miss your child just enough to make the reunion even sweeter.
So go ahead. Enjoy yourself. Your kid is having a blast—you should too.
When they come home taller, more confident, and full of camp songs you'll hear on repeat for weeks, you'll be rested, recharged, and ready to soak up every single story.
Need More Help Managing Separation?
If you're looking for more guidance on preparing yourself (and your camper) for a successful camp experience, check out these resources:
The Summer Camp Handbook — The definitive guide for parents and campers, packed with expert advice from Chris Thurber and Jon Malinowski.
Shop Camp Essentials — Get everything your camper needs to feel comfortable, confident, and ready for adventure.
This concludes our Tips and Advice series about easing the separation during your child's camp stay. Thanks for following along—and for trusting us to be part of your family's summer camp journey.
Happy camping (for them) and happy resting (for you)!
- John
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