The following 4-H Youth Development article originally printed in the 2018 Summer edition of the Oldham County Extension Newsletter.

Handling Homesickness

Going away for a night or even away at camp for a few nights can be a lot of fun. But for some kids, it can be really hard to be away from home. Here are some things you can do that will help you stay and enjoy all the fun.

• Bring a little part of home with you: For an overnight stay, it may be helpful to bring something from home. Think about your favorite toy or wear your favorite pajamas. You may also want to take a picture of your family that you can look at from time to time.
• Stay busy: when you are busy having fun, you have less time to think about being home. If you are at an overnight sleepover, play games, dance, and enjoy the time with your friends. If you are at an overnight camp, think about all of the activities that you have to choose from and perhaps even try something new!
• Talk to someone: For some kids, just letting someone else know that you are feeling a little homesick can help you feel better. Whether it is a friend or a counselor, he or she may have some other ideas to help you have fun and not think about being away from home.
• Practice: It may seem silly, but it may be helpful to practice being away from home. This may mean staying at a friend’s house for a few hours before trying to stay for an overnight visit. Maybe try checking out a day camp before going to an overnight camp.

If you sometimes feel a little homesick, remember that it is okay and that there are ways to lesson that feeling. A lot of kids feel homesick, and even some adults!

Source: Nicole Peritore, Extension Specialist for Family Health, University of Kentucky. Edited by Lauren Fernandez, Oldham County Extension Staff Assistant.