Sleepaway camp is filled with memories, milestones, and magic – and if it’s your child’s first time away, there’s a lot to discover (and even more to love). Inspired by Gretchen Rubin’s joyful lists and written for parents navigating this big moment, here’s an A to Z of what you can expect during your camper’s journey this year. From the small wins to the big feelings, these 26 little reminders are here to guide, ground, and cheer you on – every step of the way.
A – Amazon is about to be your new best friend
Packing lists are real, and Prime is basically a camp counselor, for parents (we will be introducing you to our S365 Amazon Storefront soon – and it really will be your bestie!).
B – Bravery
Being away from home is a big deal – and your campers are braver than they think.
C – Campfires & Color War
Some nights are cozy and warm. Some spark camp-wide energy, spirit, and lifelong rivalries (in the best way!).
D – Dear Mom + Dad letters
They may be short, sweet, and hilariously spelled – but they’re yours to treasure.
E – Embracing new independence
From making the bed to managing friendships, growth is happening.
F – Fourth of July Fireworks
Celebrated with bunkmates who feel like family by week two.
G – Growth you don’t see coming
Happens between archery, rest hour, and pasta night.
H – Homesickness tools
Stuffed animals, photos, routines, and counselors that truly get it.
I – Inside jokes that last forever
Sometimes it’s a chant. Sometimes it’s a shared snack. It always sticks. And only your bunkmates understand. Forever.
J – Jumping right in
Whether it’s the lake or a new skill, trying takes courage.
K – Kind counselors
The real MVPs who make camp feel safe, fun, and magical.
L – Laughing until lights out
The kind of laughter that makes your stomach hurt.
M – Memories to last a lifetime
Even an ordinary Tuesday at camp is one they’ll remember forever.
N – New friendships
Made over buddy checks, top bunks, and team chants.
O – Outdoor everything
Nature becomes the backdrop for everything – play, rest, wonder.
P – Pack like a champ
Start early. Label everything. Follow the list. You’ll thank yourself later.
Q – Quiet moments
Letters from home, rest hour, and realizing you miss each other – in a good way.
R – Routines that build confidence
Predictability helps campers feel secure (and parents breathe easier).
S – S’mores science
Golden brown perfection requires patience, rotation, and maybe a second try.
T – Trying new things
New food. New friends. New challenges. All of it builds resilience.
U – Unplugging
No screens, no scrolls – just sunshine, connection, and real time together.
V – Victories, big and small
From swimming across the lake to sleeping through the night.
W – Waking up to possibilities
Every single day feels like a new adventure.
X – X marks the spot
For scavenger hunts, hidden hatchets, and summer surprises.
Y – You did it
Camp didn’t just happen to them. They became a camper.
Z – Zipline moments
Heart-racing, unforgettable, and proof that confidence can soar.
About the contributor:
Summer 365 is the leading consulting service created by and for parents, driven by a customized, holistic approach to finding the best summer experience for each child and family. Through in-person visits and meetings with camps and programs, our momboss team of experts have insider knowledge on more than 500 top sleepaway camps and summer programs for children and teens ages 7–18. Our service makes it easy for parents to find whatever they’re looking for – whether it’s traditional or specialty sleepaway camp, community service, performing arts, enrichment, wilderness, or language immersion programs.