What If My Child Has Trouble Making Friends at Camp?

Social connection is one of the biggest worries parents carry into the camp decision. This is especially true for children who are shy, reserved, or have struggled socially in school.

At Camp Laurelwood, friendships are not left to chance. They are intentionally supported from the very first day.

Bunk groups are thoughtfully created to balance personalities and ages. Counselors actively facilitate bonding through shared experiences, group activities, and daily conversations. Living together creates natural opportunities for connection that do not exist in many other settings.

Camp also offers a fresh social start. Without the history or labels that sometimes follow children at school, many campers find it easier to connect authentically and build confidence in who they are.

If a camper is having difficulty socially, staff step in early with guidance and support. Parents are kept informed, and we work together to ensure each child feels included, seen, and valued. For many campers, the social confidence they build at camp becomes one of the most lasting parts of the experience.