About SAD CAMP LETTERS

In 2021 we sent our kid to camp for the first time, a 2-week discovery session. During COVID things were different - masks were worn, activities were limited. The camp is wonderful, on a lake, full of activities that kids love like wood shop, archery, pottery, fishing, and so much more. It is not a place of torture, I promise. The first year was tough because of restrictions, but fun was had and we saw evidence of this in all the smiling photos and messages from counselors. In fact, when we picked the kid up it was nothing but raving about how much fun was had the whole 3 hour drive home. This was not reflected in any of the letters we received. 

2022 had less restrictions and this time the kid went for 3 weeks. The photos were again all smiles. The camp counselors said, while there was some homesickness, things were overall positive. The letters though, continued to be inexplicably sad. Upon pickup I questioned the kid and the response was just a shrug.

For 2023 we were ready. THIS was going to be the year when the sad letters stopped. The kid was prepared and knew what to expect, and most importantly was EXCITED about going to camp. Drop-off was easy, friends were there! I issued a warning this time: send me sad letters and I will create an online archive for the world to see.

And here we are.

Disclaimer: Our kid IS allowed to be sad and not like things. We make that clear. All we ask is for some balance. After all, it's summer camp, not prison.