Archives for 2025

Give the Gift of Camp!

December 2, 2025 by Jill Leave a Comment

What better gift for the holiday season than giving the gift of camp! This is a gift that grows with your child (or grandchild!) Children gain independence, problem-solving skills, and a sense of self that carries into the school year and beyond. You may see a little more confidence, a little more maturity — when your child returns home.

Here are a few ideas to present it as a surprise:

Camp-in-a-Box: tuck in a flashlight, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a note that says, “Get ready for your best summer yet!”
A Letter from the Future: write a playful note describing what next summer might look like — “You’re roasting marshmallows under the stars . . .”
Photo Clue: wrap a camp brochure or a photo from the camp website and tie it with a ribbon.
A Homemade Voucher: make your own “Summer 2026 Camp Adventure” certificate and slip it under the tree for Christmas or for one of your Chanukah presents!

Giving a camp experience is the best gift you can give. You’re giving a memory that will last a lifetime. It’s more than a gift but a real experience they will always remember.

If you’d like to give this gift but don’t know where to start, we can help. We work with families across the U.S. and abroad to match your children and teens with overnight camps and summer programs that fit their age, interests, and personality — all at no cost to you.

Let’s make this summer one they’ll never forget.
Reach out — we’d love to help you find the perfect gift!

Gratitude

November 10, 2025 by Gayle Shifrin Leave a Comment

This is the time of year when we are reminded to reflect on what we are grateful for in our
lives. Although it seems cliché, there are studies that show taking time for gratitude and
appreciation positively impacts our mental health. Starting small is a great way to begin
thinking about personal gratitude.

Gratitude can be as small as finding joy in the delicately falling leaves in this autumnal season. It
can be belly laughing with uninhibited joy as children effortlessly fall into a pile of leaves.
Finding your gratitude can start with simply taking a few minutes each day to reflect and think
about the simple pleasures that bring us joy.

Thinking about gratitude for the summer season can mean appreciation for all the
opportunities offered for children and teenagers. What a gift to be able to provide a summer
full of possibility and exploration. No matter the interest level, there is a summer program out
there to meet individual needs. A summer away from home allows a child to experience
tremendous growth, both interpersonally and intra-personally. Take a moment to appreciate
what an overnight summer camp or teen program can do for a child…being able to grow
independence and social skills is monumental. From the introverted kid to the extroverted kid,
summer programs foster a sense of belonging all while having fun.

If a summer opportunity is on the horizon for your child, appreciate the excitement and gift
they will be receiving, and be grateful for the experience and personal growth that will
inevitably follow. Tips on Trips and Camps advisors are happy to help you find the right
overnight camp, trip or academic experience for your child – ask us how!

Happy children playing with autumn leaves in park — Stock Photo © Syda ...

Leadership Develops through Summer Programs

October 24, 2025 by Jen Cippoletti Leave a Comment

“Demonstrating leadership” is on the minds of every student applying to college and their anxiety-riddled parents. We are told that colleges want to see prospective students show initiative, be a role model for their peers, and be recognized as a leader in their community. But not every kid can be captain of a varsity team, start a club, or spearhead a community service project. What’s more, leadership is not something that can be turned on at will but rather is a skill that is developed over time.

Summer is a wonderful time to practice the skills that can translate into leadership positions during the school year. Programs that encourage students to take responsibility, work together as a team, and persevere through discomfort all support the development of leadership skills.

A wilderness trip teaches kids that the success of the group depends on the willingness of each individual member to do their part. Setting up and breaking down camp, cooking for a group, planning a hiking route, and accounting for uncontrollable situations help foster independence, resilience, and accountability. Students learn that planning and preparation make the job easier, and that reaching the summit in the pouring rain is a well-earned accomplishment.

Sailing programs may sound like a fancy vacation, but in reality they are an important training ground for teamwork and leadership skill development. Close quarters require that everyone do their job, keep their space clean, and participate in the day-to-day functioning of the boat. Each student eventually helps lead the crew in navigating the route, delegating responsibilities, and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. What looks like a photo-worthy vacation is a result of effort and effective leadership.

As they enjoy time in nature with new friends in a tech-free environment, students don’t always realize that their fun, adventurous summer trip actually fosters real leadership skill development. Give your child a new experience and let them learn valuable life skills in the process. Tips on Trips and Camps advisors can help you find the perfect overnight summer program!

The Summer Friend

September 19, 2025 by Jen Cippoletti Leave a Comment

Making new friends is nearly always a goal of any parent sending a child on an overnight summer program. Yes, they want their child to try new things, develop independence, find inner resilience and grit, and improve on a skill, but they also want them to make new friends. For kids who struggle socially during the school year, the hope of making a new friend at camp or on a teen program is particularly important.

Friendships formed at camp come with no baggage, no strings attached. Kids are not saddled with whatever identity or social group they may have at home and can make a friend in the most organic way possible. And without the distractions of screens and social media, friendships develop in real life – what a concept! Friendships form at camp or on a teen program at a much faster pace than those formed at home. Communal living accelerates these bonds, whether it be in the cabin, in a tent on an adventure trip, or with a roommate on a teen tour or academic program.

These relationships endure and can be a source of comfort during difficult times of the year or when a kid just needs a break from their social group at home. I’ve loved watching my kids connect with their summer friends throughout the year. They immediately become the carefree, summer versions of themselves – they giggle, joke, drop all pretention, and cease caring about what they are wearing, the social pecking order, or if their posts received any “likes.” Having friends from other parts of the country and around the world broadens their perspective and breaks them out of their bubble, not to mention giving them lots of options for travel and visits.

The summer friend is yet another gift of an overnight camp, trip or academic experience – and one that keeps giving throughout the school year! Reach out to a Tips on Trips and Camps advisor – we can help match your child to the right overnight summer program and make a new friend too!

Home Sweet Home: Helping Your Camper Adjust To School, Friends and Family After an Amazing Camp Summer

August 19, 2025 by Lisa Collins Leave a Comment

You arrive at pick-up day, spot your camper in the crowd, and there it is — the big hug, the huge smile, the moment you’ve been waiting for. You also watch the long and tearful good-byes with camp friends and counselors – many of whom you’ve never met or even know their names!

Fast forward 48 hours. That same child is now sprawled on the couch, scrolling through camp photos, sighing and snapping camp friends non-stop. You’re thinking: Snap out of it! You’re home with your family and besties from school. Enough already! Welcome to the “post-camp transition.”

The Emotional Rollercoaster of Coming Home

Camp is an all-in experience: 24/7 friends, constant activities, a strict (but fun) schedule, and not a single reminder to “unload the dishwasher.” Even the cabin chore chart is colorful and fun and your unhelpful-at-home camper can’t stop talking about being the Cabin Sweeper. Coming home to the relative quiet of family life can feel like slamming the brakes after the joyful, non-stop full-speed ahead ride of camp life.

Post-Camp Blues: Why They’re a Good Sign

If your child is missing camp more than they missed you (deep breath, it’s not personal), it actually means they connected deeply — to friends, counselors, traditions, and even to themselves. Those bonds are part of what makes camp so magical. Missing it just means it mattered and building connections is one of the most important parts of building happy habits as kids grow.

From Camp Friends to School Friends — Navigating the Change

At camp, friendships are formed with 24-hour access and a total immersive shared experience. It is difficult for your camper to adjust back to friendships in the “real world” and feel as if those connections are as deep and meaningful. To navigate this transition, it’s helpful to honor those friendships while still reintroducing routines and school friends back into their everyday lives.

Allow downtime. Physical and emotional exhaustion and “social tiredness” are real.
Don’t force the stories. Kids often need space to process before they open up and they may even want to keep some of their camp stories just for themselves.
Just a few friends at first. Spending time with just one or two good friends as your camper transitions back to non-camp life helps to ease the re-entry. Think of how we feel coming back from a week’s vacation! Re-entry is hard!

Staying Connected

Help your camper keep in touch with their new friends. That could mean old-school letters (the kind they actually had to send at camp), text threads, video calls, or even planning a mini reunion if possible.

When to Step In and Offer Extra Support

A little sadness is normal. But if your child is still withdrawn, irritable, or unusually quiet after a couple of weeks — or if they seem to be losing interest in activities they usually love — it might be worth checking in with them more directly and, if needed, looping in a counselor, teacher, or mental health professional.

The Takeaway

Camp changes kids. They come home with dirty laundry, mosquito bites, mismatched socks — and a bigger sense of independence, resilience, and belonging. Adjusting takes time, but before long, those wistful sighs will give way to diving into fall…and planning next summer’s adventures!

Summer 2026 – We Can Help!

Summer 2026 planning is under way! Tips on Trips and Camps Advisors can help you find the right overnight camp, trip or academic experience for your child. We pride ourselves on finding the right fit for your child – we know that one size does not fit all. Every kid deserves to find their perfect match! Reach out to us to get started!

I just want one more summer…

August 14, 2025 by Jen Cippoletti Leave a Comment

My kids recently returned from camp, full of stories, songs, and memories – not to mention a lot of pine needles and sand! They have the glow that only comes from weeks spent outside with friends and no phones in sight. They are healthy, relaxed, and so happy. The tears shed from leaving their summer friends are real, but they know that they will see each other again next summer.

As an adult, we know all too well that the carefree summers of our youth are fleeting, and the real world creeps in real fast. Personally, I would love one more summer at camp – I can still sing all the songs, I would happily perform in a camp skit, and I’m definitely game (I think?) for an early morning island swim across the lake. I have a chart that is a good reminder of just how many summers are left before a child heads to college. In 4^thgrade, there are 9 left, but fast forward through middle school, and the same child in 8^th grade only has 5. What to do with these precious summers?

The great news is that there is so much to do! Traditional sleepaway camp is just one option. There are specialty camps like sports, arts, music, theater, sailing, and horseback riding. There are travel opportunities like adventure trips, teen tours, community service, language immersion, and deep cultural dives. Academic and career exploration on college campuses throughout the U.S. and abroad are also great options. And there is so much more!

We adults may be past those amazing summers (sniff!), but our kids still have this incredible time. Tips on Trips and Camps advisors are here to help you find the perfect overnight camp, trip, or academic experience for your child – ask us how!

How to Write the Best Letters to Your Kids at Sleepaway Camp: Tips from a Mom Who’s Writing a Lot of Them This Summer

July 28, 2025 by Romina Faulb Leave a Comment

Intro:
It’s almost end of July, and my kids have been at sleepaway camp for a few weeks—so letter writing is very much on my mind. My daughter is in her fourth summer away, and my son is in his second. They’re at different camps, but they love staying in touch with each other through letters—usually a mix of silly drawings, “I miss yous,” and what they had for dessert.

As a parent, I’ve found that writing to my kids at camp is one of the sweetest ways to stay connected—but it can also feel weirdly high-pressure. What do you say to make them smile without making them miss home too much? Over the years, I’ve picked up a few simple tricks (including sneaking in the occasional haiku) that help strike just the right tone. Whether it’s your child’s first time away or they’re seasoned campers, here are some helpful tips for writing letters they’ll actually look forward to opening.

1. Keep It Positive and Upbeat

Focus on the fun! Use an encouraging tone and mention all the exciting things they might be doing—like archery, swimming, campfires, or bunk games. Avoid anything that might make them feel worried or overly nostalgic.

Instead of:

“We all miss you so much. The house feels empty without you.”
Try:
“We can’t wait to hear all about your adventures! I bet your bunk is having a blast.”

2. Don’t Mention Too Much About Home

It’s tempting to update them on everything, but too many details—especially fun ones—can lead to FOMO. Try to avoid things like, “We went to your favorite restaurant,” or “Your cousins are visiting.” Keep the focus on their world, not what they’re missing.

3. Ask Specific, Camp-Focused Questions

Asking questions not only gives them something to write back about—it also helps you feel a little more connected to their experience.

Try:

“What’s your favorite camp meal so far?”
“Have you learned a new song or game?”
“What’s the funniest thing that’s happened in your cabin?”

4. Add Some Fun and Playfulness

Sometimes I’ll include a riddle or even a haiku in a letter or email—it doesn’t need to be perfect, just something unexpected and fun.

Example haiku:
Sunblock and bug spray
Smells like summer adventure
Did you win GaGa?

You could also:

Draw a (silly) picture
Include a scavenger hunt (“Find something shaped like a star, a rock with stripes, and a bug that’s not too scary.”)
Send a joke or tongue twister

5. Avoid the Guilt Trip

Even if you’re missing them like crazy, be mindful not to put that on them. Phrases like “It’s so hard without you” or “I wish you were here instead” can unintentionally make them feel torn between home and camp.

6. Remind Them You’re Proud

A quick note of encouragement can go a long way. Let them know how proud you are of their independence, curiosity, and bravery—especially if you know they were nervous going in.

“I’m so proud of you for trying something new.”
“I bet you’re learning and growing every day—and I love that for you!”

7. Be Mindful of Age and Personality

Younger campers or first-timers might appreciate more reassurance and playfulness. Older or more experienced kids might prefer shorter, less “mom-ish” notes. Trust your instinct—you know your camper best.

8. Use Snail Mail (or Camp Email) Strategically

Send a letter a few days before camp starts so it’s waiting when they arrive. Then stagger a few more through the session. If your camp offers one-way email, use it for quick check-ins, jokes, or simple encouragements. No pressure to write a novel every time—just being in their inbox can be enough.

Sample Letter Snippet:

Dear Theo,
I hope you’re having the BEST time at camp! I bet you’re already the champion at GaGa ball. Have you tried canoeing yet?
I’m so proud of you for being brave and adventurous. I can’t wait to hear about your bunkmates and your favorite campfire snack.

Here’s a joke: Why can’t you tell a secret in a cornfield?
Because the corn has ears!

Love you tons,
Mom

Outro:
A great camp letter doesn’t need to be long or fancy—it just needs to feel warm and supportive. With the right mix of fun, curiosity, and encouragement, your letters can be the highlight of your camper’s day. (And if you feel stuck, a bad drawing or a goofy haiku always helps.)

Helping Your Child Cope with Homesickness at Sleepaway Camp: Tips & Tricks for Parents

June 9, 2025 by Ronit Lubell Leave a Comment

Sending your child off to sleepaway camp can be a bittersweet experience. You’re excited for them to grow, explore, and make new friends—but it’s completely natural to worry about how they’ll handle being away from home, especially if homesickness kicks in.

The good news? Homesickness is incredibly common—and usually temporary. With the right support and preparation, most kids adjust within the first few days and go on to have a fun, fulfilling camp experience.

Here are some practical tips and tricks to help your child (and you!) cope with homesickness:

1. Normalize the Feeling

Before camp even begins, talk with your child about the possibility of feeling homesick. Reassure them that it’s a normal part of being away from home and doesn’t mean they’re doing anything wrong. Let them know that those feelings usually fade as they settle in and get involved.

💬 Try saying: “Lots of kids feel homesick at first—it just means you love home! But I know you’ll find your way and have fun.”

2. Practice Being Away

One of the best ways to prepare for sleepaway camp is to ease into it. Arrange sleepovers at a friend’s or relative’s house to help your child build confidence being away from home. It’s great practice for building independence in a lower-pressure setting.

3. Send Mail—Often

Getting mail is a huge morale booster at camp. Send letters filled with encouragement, light updates from home, and reminders that you’re proud of them. Small care packages (with camp-approved items) can also give your child something to look forward to.

📫 Avoid: Messages that say “We miss you so much it hurts” or “The house is so empty without you.” Instead, keep your tone positive and reassuring.

4. Avoid “Rescue Promises”

As tempting as it is to promise, “If you’re sad, I’ll come get you,” it can actually make homesickness worse. This can create an easy mental escape for your child and make it harder for them to fully invest in the camp experience.

Instead, communicate your confidence in their ability to adjust and remind them that you’re proud of their bravery.

5. Create a Visiting Day Wishlist

Give your child something exciting to look forward to. Whether it’s a special snack, a favorite toy, or a family activity for Visiting Day, letting them make a wishlist helps them think ahead with excitement instead of dwelling on missing home.

6. Trust the Camp Staff

Remember, camp staff are trained to deal with homesickness. Don’t hesitate to communicate with them if you’re concerned, but also trust that they have the tools to guide your child through the adjustment process. Often, it just takes a little time.

7. Stay Calm and Confident

Your child takes emotional cues from you. If you appear anxious or unsure about camp, they’ll pick up on that energy. Show them that you believe in their ability to thrive—and remind yourself, too.

Final Thoughts

Homesickness is often part of the journey—but it’s also an opportunity for growth. When kids learn they can overcome it, they walk away with confidence, resilience, and a newfound sense of independence. As a parent, your steady support can make all the difference.

Sleepaway camp might start with a few tears, but it often ends with lasting memories, new friendships, and a stronger, more self-assured child.

School’s Out: Shifting Gears and Getting Ready for Camp!

June 9, 2025 by Allison Carneal Leave a Comment

Another school year has wrapped — backpacks and pencil cases are cleaned out and stored for the summer, lost water bottles and massive duffle bags have mysteriously reappeared, and parents everywhere are wondering how the year flew by so fast. It’s that bittersweet time when we celebrate how much our kids have grown — academically, socially, emotionally — while getting ready for the joyful chaos of summer. Camp season is almost here, and we’re making the switch — from carpools to cabins, from busy schedules to sun-drenched days, from classrooms to campfires.

Getting kids involved in packing builds excitement and helps avoid last-minute forgotten items. It’s normal for even experienced campers to feel nervous, so we talk through what to expect and remind them that feeling excited and nervous at the same time is okay. Writing the first letter from home — a note to tuck into their bag that reminds them how proud you are and how excited you’ll be to hear about their adventures — can make all the difference.

Going to camp is more than a break — it’s a sign of independence and a way for kids to build self-confidence. It’s their chance to make new friendships and discover what they’re capable of – from learning to water ski to sleeping in a tent. It is also a time to put away cell phones and detox from the technology which holds them hostage during their ‘normal lives’.

After a year of helping families find the right camp fit, we’re wishing everyone a summer that’s joyful and peaceful and we hope that your child has the camp experience you were hoping for ! Happy summer to our Tips on Trips and Camps families. 😀

Looking for strong male role models? Summer programs have them.

May 27, 2025 by Jen Cippoletti Leave a Comment

The data is clear – young men and boys are struggling. They lag girls in school, with lower GPAs, graduation rates, and levels of college matriculation. They are also more likely to lack social connections. Later in life, young men report more loneliness, lower rates of participation in the workforce, and saddest of all, higher levels of suicide than women of the same age. On their podcast Lost Boys, hosts Scott Galloway and Anthony Scaramucci delve deep into the causes of the crisis and speak to several thought leaders on what can be done to support young men and boys. Their first guest, Richard Reeves, author of Of Boys and Men, highlights the lack of strong male role models as a key element of the problem.

As a summer program advisor who has sent hundreds of boys on life-changing, overnight summer experiences, my first thought was, “Summer programs are full of strong male role models!” Boys at camp have so many male role models: cabin counselors, division leaders, coaches, department heads, and many others at the administrative and director levels. In addition, the younger boys have older campers who function as big brothers, teaching them traditions and helping them work through conflict, forge friendships, and manage homesickness.

Teen travel programs are also an incredible source of male role models. Adventure programs offer leaders trained in wilderness survival and outdoor skills. They also guide students in appropriate risk-taking, working as a group, being prepared, and finding resilience in the face of adversity. Male leaders on teen tours or service programs help develop positive group dynamics, facilitate friendships, and create lasting memories of the experience.

As parents, we recognize the increasing struggles of boys, and we worry about the potential for social isolation and a lack of connection. Thankfully, overnight summer camps, trips, and academic experiences can help foster those social bonds and provide young men and boys with positive, supportive male role models.

Want to learn more? Tips on Trips and Camps advisors can help you find the right overnight program for your child!

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