Hey Mom and Dad, When Are Kids Ready for Overnight Stays Away From Home?

Welcome to "Hey Mom and Dad"—a weekly feature when we ask our Facebook fans to share their views on parenting. Every week, we get the conversation started by taking a look back at a question we asked parents the week before on Patch Facebook pages from around the area.

It's that time of the year when summer camp plans are in the works for many families, and parents are deciding whether their kids are ready for overnights. Whether it be sleepovers with friends or sleep-away camps, it can be tough to know when your kids are ready for a night away from home. That brings us to this week's question:

When can you start sending your children on overnights away from home? How do you know when kids are ready?

Take a look at what people had to say and join the conversation in the comments section.

Heather R. I did it for the first time when my boys were 8 and 11. The camp was 4 nights and about 6 hours from home but a very good family friend was volunteering at the camp and looked after them a bit. Typically, I would probably say 10 or 11 is a good age. Of course, your child has to feel comfortable with it. via Oswego Patch Facebook

Joshua M. None I would never ever send my kids to a camp where god knows what can happen I can teach my boys anything about survival or nature or anything rather than some pedophiles. via Bolingbrook Patch Facebook

Nikki S. My daughter started overnight Girl Scout camp in first grade. Her first year was 3 days, then a week 2nd and 3rd, two weeks 4th and 5th, and 3 weeks 6th and this year. She is planning on being a camp counselor in the future. The responsibility and independence she has gained from these experiences are of immense value, and we wouldn't trade them for anything in the world. via Joliet Patch Facebook

So what's your take? Tell us in the comments.