Homesickness

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Homesickness is something that many children feel when they leave home for a period of time. Learn more about how to help your child cope with homesickness and how to prepare for a trip or overnight stay in a new environment.

Key points

  • Homesickness is a normal feeling. It is a strong longing for the comforts of home or a person associated with home.
  • Homesickness is caused by the stress of separation (or the anticipated separation) of your child from their home.
  • Younger children are the most prone to feeling homesick, as well as children who have never been away from home.
  • Most of the uneasiness that causes homesickness can be addressed before your child leaves home by discussing your child’s time away from home beforehand and developing a plan to calm their emotions.
Last updated: May 14th 2021