Matysik points out that it's normal for kids to get a little homesick, usually, homesickness passes as the child gets involved in activities and begins to make new friends. I think it's a good idea for parents to talk to their kids about their own camp experiences when they were young. Matysik said it might be a good idea to visit the camp in advance and encourage slightly older children to tell a first-time camper what camp is like. Parents can also ease their natural concerns about sending a child off to camp by making a point of meeting some of the staff - particularly their own child's camp counselor. First consider your child's interests.
Some camps have a special focus or theme - sports, music or foreign languages, for example.
Other camps offer traditional summer camp recreational activities. Parents also need to consider the quality of the program and the safety of their children. They should consider the reputation of the group that runs the camp or seek out references from families who have sent children in previous years. Other camps follow the ACA guidelines even if they are not members of the organization. Most camps will send a list of things to bring and a list of things to leave at home.