Summer camp is an exciting adventure for your camper, and staying connected through letters is one of the most heartwarming ways to share in their experience. But writing a letter that encourages a response can be tricky! 

To help, we’ve created the 6 S’s of Snail Mail Success so parents and family at home can craft letters that not only boost their camper’s spirits but also make it more likely to hear back. Ready to send a little love to the mountains? Let’s dive in!

It’s never too early to send a letter! Writing before camp starts means your camper will have something special waiting for them on Day 1. A heartfelt note from home can help your camper feel more excited about the journey ahead. Tip: Try to get that letter in the mail before camp starts for the ultimate welcome!

Keep your messages uplifting and full of encouragement. Share how proud you are of them, and talk about fun things happening at home—but avoid saying how much you miss them. While it’s natural to miss your camper, focusing on the positive will help them feel more confident and independent in their new camp world.

Ask questions that invite them to share their camp stories. “What’s your favorite part of camp so far?” or “Tell me about your new friends!” These open-ended questions will encourage your camper to write back, sharing all the fun and memorable moments they’re experiencing.

While your camper is off exploring, share some lighthearted updates from home. Maybe it’s how the dog learned a new trick, or what’s growing in the garden. Keep it fun and interesting without making them feel like they’re missing out on home life. They’ll love hearing from you, but don’t overload them with too many updates!

Why not add a little humor to your letters? Include a silly joke, a riddle to solve, or a creative activity, like “Write a letter from your pet’s perspective” or “Draw me a picture of your favorite camp meal.” Fun prompts like this give your camper something to look forward to—and maybe even inspire a creative reply!

Make sure your camper has everything they need to reply—pre-addressed envelopes, stamps, and fun stationery. This small gesture makes it easier for them to write back and keeps the conversation flowing. Don’t forget to remind them how excited you are to hear from them!

Sending letters to your camper during the summer isn’t just about staying in touch—it’s about keeping the connection strong and helping them feel supported as they explore and grow. Writing a thoughtful letter shows your camper you’re with them every step of the way. Plus, the excitement of receiving mail at camp is one of the best parts of the day!

By following these simple steps, you’ll not only brighten their day but also create lasting memories. Whether you’re an experienced camp family or new to the summer camp world, these tips will ensure your camper gets the most out of their time away while feeling connected to home.

Get started now, and send your camper a little love from home. And remember, the 6 S’s of Snail Mail Success will help you create the perfect letter that brings smiles and sparks stories.