The Blogs: Even now, we must talk about safety: A message for parents sending kids to camp

There’s a part of me that hesitated to write this article.

After publishing a previous post about keeping children safe in emergency shelters, some readers responded with pain and frustration and even anger:
“We’re already overwhelmed with fear, grief, and uncertainty—why add more worry? This is not the right time.”

And they’re right.
We are living through immense pain, confusion, and fear—every day, every moment since October 7th. It is all so overwhelming!

So why bring up another concern? Why risk deepening the anxiety so many parents already feel?

Because this matters.

Because the safety of our children—especially in summer camps and on trips—cannot be ignored.
Because choosing to stay silent doesn’t make the risks disappear.

A parent can choose whether or not to read this.
A parent can choose to read it and set it aside.
A parent can choose to read it and to have a conversation with their child.
All of these are valid choices.

I believe that even simply reading this makes a difference.
Because should a child comes home from camp withdrawn, quiet, or unsettled…
perhaps something in this post will resonate.
Perhaps it will prompt that parent to ask the right question at the right moment.
To open a door. To listen.

And so, with much compassion, I write this blog.

Summer vacation is in full swing. With most school and community center camps now over, many children and teens are heading off to smaller-scale summer camps and youth group trips.

On the one hand, we’re excited to give our children a fun and meaningful experience—one that encourages independence and creates positive memories. On the other hand, overnight trips can sometimes present situations that put children at risk for sexual abuse.

For this reason it is important to have an age-appropriate conversation to help children feel safer and empower them to protect themselves.

Here are some important points to include in that conversation:

You are the boss of your body. No one has the right to touch your private parts. A good rule is: your private parts are the areas covered by your bathing suit.
No one is allowed to ask to see your private parts, or to ask you to touch theirs.
You are always allowed to say “No!”—even to someone older, like a counselor or camp director.
Your “No” means “No.” It’s okay to yell or run away if needed.
Identify a trusted adult at camp—a counselor, camp mom, or nurse—someone your child can go to if they feel uncomfortable.
Never go anywhere alone with someone, not to the bathroom, not on a walk, and not to a tent or bunk.
Always tell a counselor where you’re going.
Shower in a swimsuit and get dressed in a way that feels comfortable to you.
If someone wants to show you something on their phone or tablet, it should only happen in a public space.
If it feels wrong or uncomfortable, say no and report it to a counselor.
Don’t share a bed or sleeping bag with a friend.
If something feels off, uncomfortable, or confusing—say “No” and talk to someone you trust.
No one is allowed to take your photo without your permission, especially if you’re not fully dressed.
And you shouldn’t take photos of others without their permission either.
Consider creating a secret phrase with your child—something like “How’s my fish doing at home?” or “Did you remember to water my cactus?” This gives your child a discreet way to signal that something’s wrong.

Important Questions to Ask the Camp Staff:

Do you have a clear safety policy regarding sexual abuse prevention?
Has your staff been trained in how to prevent abuse?
What is your reporting procedure if something concerning happens?
What is the ratio of campers to counselors?
Is there a designated camp mom, senior counselor, or nurse?
Has the camp director received any training on this issue?

When we talk to our children in a calm and caring way, we give them the tools they need to stay safe. Children who feel prepared are more confident and more likely to come to us if something’s bothering them. So, have that conversation with your child. And then send them off with love and a hug!