I'm going to science camp with my class, and I get really homesick sometimes. This is the first time I've been away from home by myself for more than a day. Does anyone have any good ways to help fight homesickness and avoid wanting my parents to pick me up?
-Not a happy camper

When you go to camp, take a piece of clothing that belongs to your mom or dad, such as a sweatshirt or a T-shirt. Cuddle up with it at night. It should help.
-Jessie, age 11, New York

You can make a scrapbook page with lots of pictures of your whole family before you leave. All you have to do is pull out the page when you are homesick and remember that you eventually will go home. You will not be gone forever. Good luck!
-Steph, age 12, Wisconsin

I go through the same thing. Try to think about the fun you'll have and not about your parents. If other campers start talking about home, and it hurts to listen, just ask if you can change the subject. You'll have fun! Remember, you'll be home sooner than you think.
- An American girl, age 10, Oklahoma

Ask your mom or dad to write you five letters (or the number of letters that matches the number of days you’ll be at camp) before you leave. Keep the letters in your suitcase so that you can reach them at all times. Each day you’re there, open up a letter, and you will have your parent in your heart.
-Jessica, age 12, Pennsylvania

A lot of people get homesick. See if anyone else at camp is like you. Also, try spending as much time with your family as possible before you leave for camp.
-Olivia, age 9, North Carolina

I also went to camp for the first time recently. My mom went with as a volunteer to work in the kitchen, help inspect cabins, etc. I didn't see her much, but it was nice to know she was around. Try asking your mom or dad to do something like that for you!
-Celeste, age 12, New York

What I did when I was away from my mom for a long time was I brought with me the perfume she always wears. Whenever I missed her, I sprayed it and felt better. Try bringing a smell that reminds you of your parents. It really works!
-Bryanne, age 11, Wisconsin

I get homesick a lot, too. It's very common. Before you leave, have each of your family members write something in a notebook that will help you remember to have a good time. Just remember that you will be so busy and having such a great time with your friends, that it will be hard to think about how homesick you are! Good luck!
-Megan, age 12, Illinois