When school lets out for summer, many children look forward to vacation, pool days, and carefree play. But for children living in families impacted by a parent’s substance use disorder (SUD), summer can feel uncertain, isolating, and heavy with responsibility. Instead of rest and fun, some children are left managing adult tasks—caring for younger siblings, preparing meals, or navigating emotional stress with little support.
This is where summer camps tailored for children living with family addiction can make a profound difference.
A Safe, Supportive Space
At these camps, children find what they may be missing at home: consistent routines, emotionally safe environments, and caring, responsible adults who are focused solely on their well-being. Structured days offer a sense of predictability and calm—something that is often lacking in homes affected by SUD. They can relax knowing they’ll be fed, guided, and supported.
The Power of Peer Connection
Perhaps one of the most healing aspects of these camps is community. For many children, this is the first time they realize they are not alone. Surrounded by peers who understand the complexities and challenges of living with parental addiction, they begin to open up. They laugh, share stories, and form friendships that often last beyond the week of camp. Simply knowing “I’m not the only one” can lift an enormous emotional weight.
Learning the Seven Cs
Most of these camps are rooted in the Seven Cs, created by Jerry Moe, MA—a foundational message that helps children understand they are not to blame for their parent’s substance use disorder. These affirmations help kids rebuild their self-worth and begin to heal:
I didn’t Cause it
I can’t Cure it
I can’t Control it
I can Care for myself
By Communicating my feelings
Making healthy Choices
And Celebrating myself
These messages are often woven into age-appropriate activities, small group discussions, and even songs or crafts—reinforcing the idea that they have the power to care for themselves, set boundaries, and seek help.
Prevention Through Education
Camps also gently introduce children to the concept of addiction as a disease—one they didn’t cause and can’t fix, but one that may impact their own future choices. Education becomes a tool for empowerment. Children learn they may have an increased risk for developing SUD themselves, but more importantly, they learn how to build protective factors through healthy habits, trusted relationships, and emotional awareness.
Just Letting Kids Be Kids
Amid all the growth and healing, there’s still time for water balloon fights, campfires, talent shows, and stargazing. At its heart, camp is about fun—about rediscovering joy in childhood and experiencing moments free of worry or fear. It’s about giving these children the chance to feel light, carefree, and seen.
For children affected by family addiction, summer camp is so much more than a getaway—it’s a life-changing experience of connection, hope, and healing.
NACoA’s Children’s Program Kit provides over 100 skill-based and developmentally appropriate lesson plans, along with everything needed to offer a strong, effective, and supportive summer camp for kids and teens affected by substance use disorders in their families.
