As a traditional all-boys sleepaway camp, Camp Winaukee thrives on creating an environment where young boys can grow, learn, and challenge themselves. Our campers form lifelong friendships, build confidence through sports and other outdoor adventures, and learn meaningful values they will carry with them throughout their lives. But what happens at home when those boys are back in their everyday routines? That’s where Ruth Whipman’s Boy Mom comes in — a thoughtful, witty, and refreshingly candid exploration of what it means to raise boys in today’s world.

In Boy Mom, Whipman delves deep into the quirks, challenges, and joys of raising boys, offering a perspective that resonates deeply with any parent who has sent a son off to a camp like Winaukee. With humor and vulnerability, she reflects on the everyday experiences of being a mom to sons, drawing from her own journey as a mother, along with extensive research on the science and psychology behind raising boys. As a boy mom myself at both home and work, I find myself steeped in all aspects of boyhood, and fascinated by the shared experiences of raising boys.

With two young boys of our own, and almost 20 years of experience with boys in a summer camp setting; I have witnessed first hand the energy, enthusiasm, and sometimes, mischief that boys carry with them throughout their days! I found that Whipman’s book offers a candid look at why boys often have boundless energy and how parents can channel it in positive ways. She helps parents understand that what might seem like chaos at times is often a sign of healthy, natural curiosity and growth. Whether your son is conquering the ropes course or getting into some friendly trouble with his bunkmates, Boy Mom reminds us that it’s all part of the journey.

Boys have a unique way of expressing themselves—whether through action, words, or even silence. Whipman’s approach to parenting challenges the notion that boys need to fit a certain mold. She encourages parents to embrace the messiness of raising boys, which is something every Camp Winaukee parent can relate to. Winaukee is about improving athletic skills, spending time in the outdoors, trying new activities, and sometimes coming back to the cabin covered in paint! At Winaukee, we know that mess is often part of the fun!

One part of Whipman’s book that really stuck with me was her insightful take on the emotional development of boys. Too often, boys are expected to “tough it out” or hide their feelings. Whipman challenges this outdated thinking, offering tips on how to create an environment where boys can learn to express their emotions authentically and grow into compassionate, self-aware individuals. At Camp Winaukee, this mirrors our efforts as we strive to foster an environment where boys can connect with each other, share their feelings, and build emotional resilience. Teaching young men the skills to navigate the complexities of life and the array of emotions they will experience is perhaps one of the most impactful long-term benefits of a summer at Camp Winaukee.

Raising boys is an adventure in itself. Each child is unique, with their own personality, needs, and challenges. Boy Mom emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, and that’s something we live by at Winaukee. Whether your son is an athlete, a budding artist, or a future leader, Whipman’s book encourages parents to appreciate the different paths boys can take in their growth and development — a philosophy that aligns perfectly with the diverse athletic interests and talents found at Camp Winaukee.

Raising boys is an adventure in itself. Each child is unique, with their own personality, needs, and challenges. Boy Mom emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, and that’s something we live by at Winaukee. Whether your son is an athlete, a budding artist, or a future leader, Whipman’s book encourages parents to appreciate the different paths boys can take in their growth and development — a philosophy that aligns perfectly with the diverse athletic interests and talents found at Camp Winaukee.

I loved Whipman’s ability to mix humor with deep insights. Her writing style is accessible and engaging, making it a great read for parents navigating the ups and downs of raising boys. Whether you’re a seasoned camp parent or new to the camp experience, Whipman’s perspective will leave you with a greater appreciation for your son’s quirks, challenges, and joys. It’s a reminder that while raising boys can sometimes feel like a whirlwind, it’s also one of life’s most rewarding adventures.

If you’re a Camp Winaukee parent looking for a thoughtful, humorous, and honest take on raising boys, Boy Mom is the perfect read to add to your list. It will resonate with your experiences at camp as well as provide valuable insights that will enrich your relationship with your son both at home and after they return from camp.

As our boys grow, learn, and explore at Camp Winaukee, let’s remember that this journey is about nurturing their potential, embracing their individuality, and understanding the complexities of their emotional worlds. Boy Mom by Ruth Whipman is a wonderful guide to doing just that.