My 12 year old son is starting to have separation anxiety about going to a 3-week summer camp. is this normal? what can i do?

Yup, it's normal: Your son is at a developmental stage where separation is double-edged. They want to be independent, but independence scares them. Be supportive, let him talk (he'll do it when he wants to, not when you want to). Don't argue or try to convince him to go or not. If you & his dad decided it was a good idea, then it's a good idea. He will love it! all mine did this too! (i'm a mom and a doc!).

Reassurance: It's common at this age, especially in close knit families. Just reassurance, close contact with him when he is gone on trip.

For both of you: I agree with the first three answers. I want to add that you might be having a little separation anxiety too. Definitely keep seeking out support. In your profile it says that you are 22 and your son is 12. Is this correct? If it is i hope you are getting specialized support for yourself. In any case congratulations for reaching this milestone!

Normal: Your son's concerns are likely normal. Often camp is one of the first big events in which children are separated from parents for an extended time. Validate his feelings but also remind him of the fun activities he will be doing. You can also work with him to develop a plan for coping if he is missing home. If possible hide a small care package in his bag to remind him of home when he gets there.

Consult w/ Expert: What's the harm in speaking 2 a child anxiety expert? Consider: "anxiety disorders affect 1 in 8 children. Research shows that untreated children w/ anxiety disorders r at higher risk 2 perform poorly in school, miss out on important social experiences, & engage in substance abuse." (source: http://bit.Ly/zku5qe) in my experience, anxiety is under-detected in kids & it's impact is minimized.

I can be!!: Many children are hesitant about leaving home for an extended period.Involving him with the planning and if possible visiting or contacting the camp for a 'contact' may help.Parental confidence in the process is a must! if he still is resistant, maybe try a local day camp first to ease him into it. Don't force it. Make contingency plans as well. Be positive and excuted and he will be too!