“Living 10 for 2: How to Keep Camp Friendships Thriving All Year Long”

So your kid just came home from their first magical summer (or maybe their 11th!)… and now it’s time for those 10 months they’re basically just powering through until camp rolls around again.

The big question: how do you keep those camp besties close all year long?

For older campers, it’s easy, TikTok, Snapchat, and dare we say… an actual phone call or text. But younger campers? That’s trickier. Some have FaceTime, email, or maybe even their own text setup. (Confession: I told my brother to just cave and get his 13-year-old a phone so she could stay connected. Don’t tell him I told you.) If you’re not ready for that leap, an Apple Watch works, or even an email address linked to your iPad or laptop. Most kids will end up in a group chat because lets' be honest it’s the lifeline for camp friendships when not in camp.

Beyond screens, try connecting with camp families in your area. Small hangouts are the perfect bridge from September to June. Keep it inclusive, and chances are you’ll get a solid crew together.

And don’t forget that lots of camps host fall meetups, holiday parties, or even full-blown reunions. Show up to them. It's like a mini dose of camp magic in the middle of the year.

10 months is a long wait… but camp friendships? They’re worth keeping warm all year long.