Deciding when a child is ready for sleep away camp can be a tough decision for parents. Here are some factors to consider that may help you make an informed decision:

1. Age: Most sleep away camps start accepting children from the age of 7, but many parents wait until their children are a bit older before sending them away for the first time. It's important to consider your child's maturity level and ability to handle being away from home for an extended period of time.
2. Independence: If your child is used to spending time away from home, such as staying over at a friend's house or going on a weekend trip with family, they may be more prepared for the experience of sleep away camp. It's also important to consider how well your child handles new situations and experiences without you.
3. Comfort level: Talk to your child about the idea of going to sleep away camp and how they feel about it. If they seem excited about the prospect, it may be a good sign that they're ready. However, if they're hesitant or fearful, it may be better to wait until they're more comfortable with the idea.
4. Health and Safety: Make sure the camp you're considering has appropriate health and safety measures in place. You should feel comfortable with the camp's policies on medical emergencies, medication administration, and child protection.
5. Camp type: Consider the type of camp you're considering. Some camps focus on specific activities like sports or arts, while others are more general in nature. If your child is passionate about a particular activity, they may be more interested in a specialized camp.

Ultimately, the decision to send your child to sleep away camp is a personal one, and depends on your child's individual needs and circumstances. Take the time to talk to your child, do your research, and trust your instincts.

Here are some articles - just find the link to hyperlink to them ….

Here are some articles that may be helpful for parents trying to decide when to send their children to summer camp:

1. "Is My Child Ready for Sleepaway Camp?" from Parents Magazine: This article discusses factors such as age, maturity, and independence, and provides tips for preparing your child for the sleepaway camp experience.
2. "When is My Child Ready for Summer Camp?" from Verywell Family: This article provides a list of questions to consider when deciding if your child is ready for summer camp, and offers advice on how to choose the right camp for your child.
3. "How to Decide if Your Child is Ready for Summer Camp" from KidsHealth: This article provides guidance on assessing your child's readiness for summer camp, including tips for talking to your child about the experience and preparing them for potential homesickness.
4. "The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Summer Camp for Your Child" from Family Education: This comprehensive guide offers advice on everything from choosing the right type of camp to preparing your child for the experience.
5. "Summer Camp: Is Your Child Ready?" from Scholastic Parents: This article discusses the benefits of summer camp and offers advice on assessing your child's readiness based on factors such as age, interests, and personality.

These resources should provide parents with a good starting point for making an informed decision about whether their child is ready for summer camp.