For Parents: Safer Summer Camp Tips

Summer camp can be one of the most exciting, confidence-building experiences of childhood. But as a parent, it’s completely natural to feel nervous about sending your child off for days—or even weeks—without you. 

While most camps work hard to keep kids safe, no environment is immune to the risk of sexual abuse. The good news? You can take proactive steps to reduce that risk, prepare your child, and respond effectively if something goes wrong.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Start with Smart Camp Selection

Before signing your child up, do your homework. Review the camp’s website, policies, and parent handbooks with an eye for safety practices. Then, go beyond the brochures and ask:

• Do all staff members undergo background checks—including checks against the sex offender registry?
• How does the camp handle allegations of sexual abuse? Who is notified, when, and how?
• Are kids allowed to call home if something makes them uncomfortable?

If the answers are vague or the staff seem uncomfortable discussing these topics, trust your gut and consider other options.

2. Talk Openly With Your Child Before Camp Starts

One of the most powerful protective tools is an informed, confident child. Build safety into everyday conversations by teaching your child:

• Their body belongs to them, and no one has the right to touch them without permission—not even during games or sports.
• It’s okay to say “no” or walk away from uncomfortable situations, even if it means breaking a rule or upsetting an adult.
• Trust their instincts. If something feels off, it probably is—and it’s always okay to talk to you about it.

Use real-life examples your child can relate to, and keep the tone casual but clear. The goal is to create a relationship where your child knows you’ll always listen—and believe them—no matter what.

3. Check In Early & Often

Before, during, and after camp, keep the lines of communication wide open. Some helpful habits include:

• Ask about the details of your child’s day: What activities they did, who they sat next to at lunch, or if anything felt weird or confusing.
• Avoid only yes/no questions. Try: “What was the most surprising thing that happened today?” or “Did anything make you feel uncomfortable or weird?”
• Let them lead. Ask, “Is there anything else you wanted to tell me?” and allow space for them to bring up topics on their own.

4. Know the Signs of Abuse

Even if your child doesn’t—or can’t—say something directly, their behavior might. Learn to recognize potential warning signs, including:

• Behavioral changes: sudden clinginess, withdrawal, sleep disturbances, bedwetting, or age-inappropriate sexual behavior
• Physical signs: bruising, swelling, or bleeding around the genital area; changes in hygiene habits
• Verbal cues: using sexual language beyond their age, unexplained silence, or avoidance of certain people or situations

Trust your instincts if something feels off.

5. Respond With Compassion if Your Child Discloses Abuse

If your child tells you something happened, your response matters more than anything. Stay grounded and follow these steps:

• Remain calm. Take a breath before reacting. Your child needs to feel safe—not responsible for your emotions.
• Name your feelings. If you cry or seem upset, explain: “I’m just sad this happened to you, but I’m so proud you told me.”
• Reassure them. Say clearly: “You’re not in trouble. I believe you. This was not your fault.”
• Avoid touching unless invited. Respect their boundaries as they process the experience.
• Support their grounding. If they become overwhelmed, help them come back to the present with deep breaths or by naming objects in the room.

6. Report & Protect

If you suspect or learn about abuse:

• Ensure immediate safety. If your child is in danger, call 911.
• Report the incident. Contact Child Protective Services or your state’s designated child welfare agency. Visit RAINN’s State Law Database to learn your state’s reporting laws.
• Prepare to share information like the child’s name, your relationship to them, and details about the suspected abuse.
• Tell your child what’s happening. Say: “I need to talk to someone who can help make sure this doesn’t happen again.”

7. Stay Involved & Stay Alert

Prevention doesn’t stop once your child heads to camp. Stay engaged in your child’s world:

• Get to know the adults and kids in their life—counselors, bunkmates, activity leaders.
• Create space for conversations about boundaries, consent, and respect—not just in times of crisis, but every day.
• Model safe boundaries at home. Respect your child’s autonomy, and teach them to respect others in return.
• Talk about media. Use news stories or shows as jumping-off points for age-appropriate conversations about sexual abuse.

8. Let Them Know They Can Always Talk to You

Remind your child regularly:

• They won’t get in trouble for speaking up.
• No one has the right to touch them or make them feel unsafe.
• You will always believe them and be there to help.

Knowledge, Confidence, & Support

You can’t control everything that happens while your child is at summer camp—but you can equip them with knowledge, confidence, and support. Your involvement and your voice are powerful tools in preventing sexual abuse and protecting the children you love.

Let summer be a time of joy and exploration—not fear. With the right conversations and safeguards, you can help your child build memories that last a lifetime—safely.