The Best Part of Summer Camp? Parents Aren't There!

What happens when children spend time away from home—and why do so many parents find that harder than their kids do? In Educating the Human Potential's first-ever returning guest episode, psychologist and bestselling author **Michael Thompson** returns for a timely conversation about why summer camp remains one of childhood's most powerful developmental experiences. Together with Nicole Coman and Biff Maier, he explores why homesickness is a normal part of growing up, how camp fosters resilience and independence, and why today's culture of constant communication may be making it harder for children to develop confidence away from their parents. **Together, they discuss:** - Why homesickness is a healthy developmental milestone - The surprising reason camp friendships last a lifetime - How camp counselors become powerful role models - Why independence requires time away from parents - Technology, constant communication, and modern parenting - Helping children—and parents—prepare for separation Whether your child is heading to camp for the first time or you're simply thinking about how children grow into capable, confident adults, this conversation offers thoughtful reassurance that sometimes the greatest gift parents can give is the space to grow. Contact Us: humanpotential@amshq.org **Educating the Human Potential** is a podcast about optimizing education for a better society, through a Montessori lens. Hosts **Nicole Coman**, a licensed educational psychologist specializing in school psychology and child development -- and a "Montessori mom" -- and **Biff Maier**, an American Montessori Society Living Legacy with decades of experience as a Montessori educator and school leader, engage with experts, educators, parents, and students. Each episode explores strategies to unlock human potential, offering thought-provoking conversations on learning, child development, and the evolving landscape of education. This podcast is presented by AMS, the American Montessori Society. **For more information about Montessori education, visit** https://amshq.org/about-montessori/ **And consider this AMS course for families interested in incorporating the Montessori philosophy into their day-to-day lives and parenting approach:** https://learn.amshq.org/parent-course-early-childhood Contact us: humanpotential@amshq.org