Top Tips for Making Friends at Camp

Making friends at overnight summer camp - especially when you don't know anyone - an feel overwhelming at first, but with the right mindset and tools, it can be a great opportunity to build meaningful connections. Here are friendly, concrete tips tailored for teens (including those with ASD or social anxiety):

1 . Remember Camp is Made for New Friends

• Remember, most people at camp are also looking for new friends. The cliques and social structures of school have been left behind and you have an opportunity to meet new people without having to worry about "infringing" on a pre established group.
• Cabin leaders and cabin mates are great places to start when getting to know new people. Your cabin will have way more fun if you get to know each other.
• If you feel nervous, cabin leaders and other camp staff are there to help. Let them know how you feel and that you may need help making an introduction or finding a buddy.
• It's okay to ask to sit with someone you don't know or just met. They don't want to sit alone either. If they happen to be saving a seat, don't take it personally, just try again or scooch over.
• A friendly smile and simple, "Hey, I'm [Name]" goes a long way in starting a friendship.
• You don't have to wait for someone else to talk first.
• Script example:
  • "Hi, I'm [Name]. This is my first time here- how about you?"

2. Ask Open-Ended Questions

• People love talking about themselves - give them a chance!
• Try:
  • "What's your favorite camp activity?"
  • "Have you been to camp before?"
  • "What are you looking forward to this week?" 

3. Join Group Activities Even if You're Nervous

• Shared activities are the easiest ways to make friends.
• You don't have to be great at the activity - just show up and try.
• Sit next to someone during meals or games to start naturally connecting. 

4. Look for Other "Alone" People

• Someone else is probably feeling just like you - go say hi.
• You can ask to sit next to them or invite them to walk with you to the next activity.
• It's okay to say, "Can I walk with you to the beach?" or "Wait up! I'm coming too!"

5. Be Helpful or Encouraging

• Compliment someone's drawing, game skill, or courage.
• Example:
  • "Nice job on that!"
  • "That was funny" or "I like your shirt" - small kindness matters. 

6. Keep Conversations Balanced

• Try not to talk about only one topic (like a video game or show).
• Ask follow-up questions and give the other person space to share too.
• Practice this before camp:
  • Share --> Pause --> Ask a question. 

7. Bring a Conversation Starter

• Wear a fun T-shirt, carry a unique water bottle, or bring a card game.
• People may comment on it, giving you an easy way to start talking.
• I've seen the shy kids from home turn into super stars at camp. This is the best place to break out of your shell and be yourself. 

8. Use a Break Phrase if You Need Space

• If you feel overwhelmed, it's okay to take a break. Try:
  • "I'm going to grab some water real quick - I'll be right back."
• Tell your leader if the noise is too loud or you feel over stimulated. It's okay to sit out of a game or step into a quieter place, but you need to let them know what's going on. Don't just disappear - they are there to help you. 

9. Practice Ahead of Time

• Role-play with a parent, counselor, or sibling:
  • How to introduce yourself
  • How to join a group conversation
  • How to handle awkward silence or shyness 

10. Remember This Truth: Most People Are Open to New Friends at Camp

• Everyone is new at some point.
• Camp is designed to help people connect - just trying is a big win!