Letting Go, Growing Up: Jack’s First Camp Experience

Last month, Jack went to camp for the very first time.

I had the gift of sharing this milestone with one of my closest friends, a fellow mom on this journey of raising a child with Down syndrome, who dropped off her son alongside me. We made the drive together, our boys in the back, and spent time reflecting on just how far they’ve come and how far we’ve come, too. It was emotional and grounding to share that space with someone who truly understands what a big deal this moment was.

The camp was 2½ hours away for four nights. And for the first time, Jack wasn’t staying with family. This was a big step; not just for him, but for me too. Letting others care for Jack, without knowing his routines or communication style, brought up emotions I didn’t expect.

As we got closer to camp, I could feel it all building. And when the counselors and campers walked off together with excitement and confidence, I let the tears fall – grateful, proud, and a little undone. It was a moment I never imagined witnessing, especially in those early days of uncertainty about Jack’s future. But there he was: stepping into independence.

I cried happy tears…tears of deep gratitude for every person who volunteered their time to invest in my child’s experience. Their presence, their belief in Jack, and their joy created a safe space for him to try new things and grow.

And then came the photos and videos.

As I looked at picture after picture, I noticed something else…Jack had dressed himself. The outfits I had packed neatly together had been confidently remixed by a 12-year-old with his own sense of style. Mismatched? Maybe. Perfectly paired by him? Absolutely. It was humbling and beautiful…and a reminder of how many of the “simple tasks” I still control, often without realizing it.

At camp, he tried things he hadn’t before, like climbing a ropes course, going fishing, and meeting so many new friends with Down syndrome. He grew in his independence. And I was challenged in mine.

One video showed him up on stage with the camp leader, rapping with hand motions and full expression, completely in his element. Jack, who adores musicals and any opportunity for the limelight, was shining. He formed a quick bond with the music therapist and still asks about him today. That same therapist called Jack a “walking jukebox,” and he was given the camper award for “Getting His Head in the Game.” Jack (aka Troy Bolton) wore that honor proudly.

When we arrived to pick him up, he didn’t want to leave. Counselors were thanking me for sending him. I was deeply humbled by their willingness to serve and celebrate Jack and every camper like him.

And something shifted.

It’s hard to explain, but in the days and weeks after camp, it’s felt like Jack has grown up, just a little. Like I had picked up a “big kid.” His confidence, his voice, his independence… it was different. It was exactly what we both needed. A week apart that helped us grow closer to who we’re each becoming.

It made me reflect:
How often do I hold Jack back from growing because of my desire to control the outcome? How much does fear influence my decisions, keeping me from saying “yes” simply because I can’t predict what will happen? How often do I avoid signing him up for something because of the vulnerability that comes with not knowing? Will it be a total fail or a surprising success?

Camp wasn’t just a date on the calendar. It was an invitation for both of us to grow. A courageous act of showing up, letting go, and learning on the journey.

And once again, Jack led the way.