Are you sending a young child to sleepaway camp for the first time? Are you beginning to plan for younger siblings to attend camp? As parents, sending your child off to Camp Winaukee for the first time—or even back to school after a long break—can bring up feelings of uncertainty or even anxiety for both kids and parents. Worrying about being away from home is common for children, especially those between the ages of 6 and 11, and it can be challenging for both kids and their families to cope with; especially in our post-Covid era of parenting.

Luckily, books can be a powerful tool to help children process their emotions and ease the transition from home to camp or school.

To help guide your child through these feelings of worry and uncertainty, separation anxiety, I’ve gathered five wonderful picture books that can support emotional growth and provide comfort. These books offer comforting narratives, gentle illustrations, and empowering messages that can help your child feel more confident about being apart from you, whether it’s for a few hours, a few days, or the whole summer.

The Kissing Hand by Audrey Penn

Recommended Age: 4-8 years

This beloved book tells the story of Chester Raccoon, who feels nervous about starting school and being away from his mother. His mother shares a special family tradition—a “kissing hand”—that gives Chester a sense of comfort and reassurance. Each time he feels nervous or scared, he can press his hand to his cheek and remember his mother’s love.

Why it helps with separation anxiety: The idea of the “kissing hand” serves as a tangible reminder of your child’s connection to home, even when they are apart. It’s a wonderful way to remind them that they are never truly alone, even when they’re at camp or school.

Llama Llama Misses Mama by Anna Dewdney

Recommended Age: 3-6 years

This story follows Llama Llama, who experiences the familiar feelings of sadness and fear when his mother leaves him at school. Throughout the day, Llama finds ways to cope with his emotions, learning that school can be a fun and positive experience, and that Mama will always come back at the end of the day.

Why it helps with separation anxiety: Llama Llama’s emotions mirror what many children feel when facing separation anxiety. The book encourages kids to embrace their feelings of missing a loved one, while also showing them that they can manage their emotions and find comfort in familiar routines.

I Love You All Day Long by Francesca Rusackas

Recommended Age: 3-6 years

In this sweet and reassuring story, a little mouse feels worried about being apart from his mother for the day. His mother gently explains that no matter where he goes, her love will always be with him. The story highlights that love transcends distance, providing comfort for children who may be anxious about separation.

Why it helps with separation anxiety: The central theme of unconditional love helps children feel secure even when they are away from their parents. The gentle and reassuring tone of the book offers a sense of comfort and relief, helping kids understand that they are always connected to their loved ones.

The Invisible String by Patrice Karst

Recommended Age: 4-8 years

In The Invisible String, a mother tells her children about an invisible string that connects them to the people they love, no matter how far apart they may be. This metaphorical string helps children understand that love is always present, even if they are physically separated from their parents, friends, or family members.

Why it helps with separation anxiety: This beautifully illustrated book reassures children that they are never alone. The invisible string is a comforting reminder that no matter where they are—at camp, at school, or at home—they are always connected to those they love.

I’m Brave! by Kate McMullan

Recommended Age: 4-7 years

This story features a little firetruck who is nervous about doing brave things like racing down the street or helping put out fires. Over time, with the encouragement of others, the firetruck finds the courage to face fears and embrace challenges. The story offers a great lesson in managing anxiety and overcoming self-doubt.

Why it helps with separation anxiety: The theme of bravery is ideal for children who feel apprehensive about new situations like going to school or camp for the first time. This book teaches children that it’s okay to feel nervous but that they can be brave and handle challenges, especially when they have a support system.

The Little Yellow Bus: A Brave Kid’s Book about Finding Independence by Erin Guendelsberger

Recommended Age: 5-9 years

This story features a little school bus who is nervous about his first day of school. He learns to be brave and travel on his own. Along the way, it discovers the power of independence, making new friends, and embracing its own journey with confidence. This heartwarming tale teaches kids the importance of believing in themselves and stepping out on their own.

Why it helps with separation anxiety: This story can help ease worry or anxiety around independence by normalizing the feelings of fear and showing that growth and new adventures are possible even when it feels scary.

How Books Can Help Ease Anxiety

These picture books are more than just stories—they offer valuable lessons about managing emotions, embracing separation, and finding comfort in times of change. They have the potential to give your child the tools to express their feelings and understand that it’s okay to miss home, but also that the separation is temporary and often leads to exciting experiences and new growth.

A Few Tips for Parents

• Read Together: Reading these books with your child creates an opportunity for meaningful discussion about their feelings. Encourage them to share their thoughts and worries, and let them know that it’s okay to feel nervous or sad about being away from home.

• Create Rituals: Just like the “kissing hand” in Audrey Penn’s book, establish a ritual or symbol that can help comfort your child. Whether it’s a special hug, a good-luck charm, or a promise to call, these small routines can make a big difference in easing anxiety.

• Validate Their Emotions: It’s important for kids to know that their feelings of worry are normal. Let them know that it’s okay to miss home or feel nervous about camp. Acknowledge their emotions and remind them that they’re strong enough to manage them.

• Reinforce the Positives of Camp: Before camp starts, talk about all the fun activities, the friends they will make, and the new experiences they’ll have. The more excited your child is about the upcoming adventure, the easier the transition will be.

Separation anxiety is a normal part of growing up, but with the right support and tools, children can learn to manage these feelings. These five picture books provide comforting stories that help kids understand their emotions and offer reassurance during times of separation. By reading these books together, parents can help their children build emotional resilience and feel more confident as they head off to Camp Winaukee or face other separations throughout the year.

As always, remember that it’s okay for both parents and kids to feel a little nervous or even anxious at first. With the right guidance, they’ll be able to face their fears, embrace the experience, and return home stronger, braver, and more confident.