Homesickness

Many students who come to High Trails have not spent the night away from home, and few have been away from parents for 3 to 5 days.  This new challenge can cause anxiety on the part of students and parents – here are some good ways to think about addressing the challenge of helping your student prepare for High Trails.

• Concentrate on the positive: keep your student looking forward to the great time they will have at High Trails, and remind them of what they are most looking forward to.
• Build comfort and confidence away from home: schedule a few sleepovers with friends who will also be attending High Trails on the weekends leading up to the trip to build familiarity with sleeping away from home.
• Send a reminder of home: a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or picture can provide companionship for your student.
• Encourage activity: Make sure your student knows that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and remind them that they will not want to miss out.  The chance to learn new things, have fun with friends, and participate in the different Discovery Groups and hikes will be well worth it.
• Prepare as a parent: Sending your child away can be as hard for parents as for students.  Prepare yourself for the separation, and act appropriately around your child.  Be happy and excited for the experience they will have, and remember that any doubt or uncertainty you show to them could become homesickness once they are away.

The High Trails trip is a truly beneficial part of all our students’ education and personal growth, and the changes we see in students during the time they are here will be visible and potentially astounding to you when they return.