Camp for my 8 year old

[Jenna1208]

Moms, I need some help. My 8 year old boy went to camp last year and he had a good time but when the subject came up for this year he said he didn't want to go because, "He can't do what he wants and he misses me too much." While, I am completely touched I don't feel like this is a valid reason to not go. It's a YMCA based camp so he learns about healthy eating, exercise and overall self sufficiency. I feel like it's detrimental to him growing and developing to venture on his own (obviously very supervised though) and learn who he is outside of the home. I also don't want to traumatize him. Thoughts??

[specialmom]

And maybe not a week long over night camp yet at that age.   good luck

[RockRose]

I agree that some kids aren't ready for camp at that age.  

It sounds to  me,  though,  that camp isn't really very fun.   I wonder if you could find a camp that has a reputation for kids looking forward to going all year long?  

[specialmom]

He's pretty young.  I NEVER went to camp and learned all of those things. Camp is supposed to be fun---  not a mandatory thing.  He tried it.  He is saying he doesn't want to go back.  I wouldn't make him myself and then you can revisit it next summer.  My oldest son went to camp just recently for three days.  he's 11.  He wants to go back for a another session in June (also a YMCA camp).  If he didn't like it when he went, I'd not make him go, ya know?  It's for fun to ADD to things.  I haven't sent his younger brother yet because he says he doesn't want to.  I'll try again next year.  

So, at 8, he's not outside of normal for still wanting to be home most.  He'll develop just fine---  don't push.  good luck