A few weeks at Camp serves as a way for kids to feel capable and confident away from home. They are making new friends, learning to manage social situations, and taking care of their things (sorting laundry, hanging dry towels, keeping track of shoes, etc). Some campers fall right into routine and adjust to camp life, while for some kids, this is a big leap. Enter letter-writing at camp. While this might seem old school to some, writing letters to your camper supports their emotional well being and serves as a record for their time at camp!
Why is Letter-Writing Important?
At Camp Jeanne d’Arc we use an e-letter writing platform called Campanion which makes communicating with campers super easy – no trips to the post office, no delayed arrival of letters, and it provides an easy way for campers to respond. But why is letter-writing at camp so important?
- Supports emotional well being. Positive encouragement from home helps a lot! When a camper receives a letter is a tangible way of telling them they are loved and their families are thinking of them.
- Exchanges are snap shots of camp life. Going back a rereading camp letters is a window into what life was like at camp, something they may not always remember without the written evidence!
- Reflection time. The act of letter-writing is great for campers. It gives them time to reflect on their time at camp and it gives families an opportunity to reflect on how transformative this experience might be.
What Should be Included:
Not all letters to campers are created equal. There are tricks and tips to keep the exchanges positive and encouraging. Especially if a camper is feeling homesick, it is best to keep the notes light and positive. Here are some ways to support your camper through letters:
Encouragement & Positivity
- Let them know you’re proud of them for trying new things.
- Remind them they’re brave, capable, and loved.
Fun Updates from Home
- Share light, silly news (e.g., “The dog stole my sandwich again!”).
- Avoid anything that might make them feel like they’re missing out.
Questions to Keep Them Engaged
- “What’s the funniest thing that’s happened so far?”
- “Have you learned a new skill or game?”
Inside Jokes or Shared Memories
- Reference something only you two would laugh about — it keeps the connection strong.
A Little Surprise
- Add a doodle, riddle, or short made-up story to make them smile.
What about Packages?
If you can swing it, packages are very exciting to receive while at camp. Knick knacks or crafts or magazines are fun for down time and often can be shared with cabin mates. Practical items are also great to include in packages that can ease some stresses at camp. Check Camp rules – at Camp Jeanne d’Arc, we limit packages to once per week and do not allow food items. Here are some more ideas:
Practical & Useful Items. These help campers stay comfortable and organized:
- Reusable water bottle
- Band-aids with fun designs
- Mini fan (battery-operated)
- Flashlight or headlamp
Fun & Creative Add-Ons. These make the package memorable and encourage campers to connect with friends:
- Friendship bracelet kit
- Stickers sheet
- Coloring book with markers
- Origami paper set
- Temporary tattoos
- Dress up items like tutus, headbands, or wigs
- Glowsticks
Personal Touches
- A handwritten note or letter from family
- Photo of family or pet
- A “letter from the pet”
Stay Curious and Connected
As your camper embarks on this incredible journey of growth and discovery, we encourage you to stay curious about their daily adventures. While letter-writing at camp beautifully bridges the distance between home and camp, it is also a wonderful opportunity to dive deeper into the magic they are experiencing. By asking open-ended questions like “What was the highlight of your day?” or “What new thing made you laugh today?”, you invite them to share the small, joyful moments that define their summer. These intentional exchanges do more than just relay news; they build a supportive connection and create cherished memories that will last long after the campfire fades and they return home.