Summer Sleepovers: What to Consider
For many families, summer sleepovers are an exciting part of childhood. Kids get the chance to have fun while also building independence, developing social skills, and making long-lasting memories. And, like any milestone, it’s a time to pause, reflect, and decide what’s truly right for your child and your family.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to sleepovers—and that’s okay. Every child is different. Some thrive in new environments, while others may need more time, support, and preparation before spending a night away from home.
Recently, founder and owner of Compassionate Counseling St. Louis, Kelsey Torgerson Dunn, spoke with the St. Louis My Mom Club on Channel 4 about summer sleep-overs, considerations for your child, and ways to support your child. You can watch it right here!
Sleepovers Can Be Wonderful for Some Kids
For many children, sleepovers can be a big confidence boost. Being away from home—even for one night—can help kids practice independence, navigate new social situations, and feel proud of themselves. During the summer, when routines are looser and schedules more flexible, sleepovers can offer connection, excitement, and joy for many kids.
When Your Child Might Need Extra Support
If your child experiences anxiety, social difficulties, or struggles with big emotions, sleepovers might feel more overwhelming instead of exciting. That doesn’t mean they’ll never be ready—it just means they may need a little extra support, time, and intentional preparation.
It's helpful to keep in mind that readiness for a sleepover isn’t about age or what other kids are doing - it’s about your child’s individual needs.
Preparing for a Successful Sleepover
If your child is interested in trying a sleepover, you can take steps to set them up for success:
Talk it through ahead of time: What will the evening look like? What if they feel nervous or want to come home?
Practice separation in small steps: Build up their confidence with shorter playdates or evenings with relatives.
Role-play common scenarios: Help them think through what to do if they wake up in the middle of the night, can’t find their pajamas, or need help.
Pack a few comfort items: A favorite blanket or stuffed animal can make a big difference.
Alternatives That Still Offer Social Connection
Not every child is ready for an overnight stay—and that’s completely okay. There are creative ways to help your child stay socially connected:
Host a "late-over" where friends stay until bedtime but not overnight
Plan cozy movie nights or game afternoons with friends
Build in more one-on-one playdates outside of your home
Parents Need Support Too!
Whether it’s anxiety, struggles with big emotions or anger, our expert parenting coaches are ready to help you build your own parenting toolkit.
When to Seek Extra Support
If your child consistently struggles with separation, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm in social situations, it might be a sign that they’d benefit from more structured support. Child therapy can help children build confidence, learn coping strategies, and feel more in control of their emotions.
At Compassionate Counseling St. Louis, we support families through moments just like this—whether you’re preparing for a first sleepover, working through anxiety, or simply wanting your child to feel more confident.
We’re Here to Help
If you’re navigating big transitions or social milestones with your child, we’d love to support you. Reach out to Compassionate Counseling St. Louis to schedule a consultation to learn more about how we can help your child thrive—at sleepovers and beyond.
Curious to learn more about how St. Louis therapy at Compassionate Counseling St. Louis can help you and your family? Reach out to us at hello@compassionatecounselingstl.com. As anxiety experts providing St. Louis therapy, we love working with kids, teens, college students and parents to help manage their anxiety, stress, and anger. Compassionate Counseling St. Louis is located in Clayton, MO and works with families by offering both in-person counseling and online therapy throughout St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Ladue, University City, Town and Country, Webster Groves, Creve Couer, Kirkwood, Richmond Heights, and Brentwood. We also provide online therapy Missouri -wide to teens and college students. You can set up your first free consult on this website, on our consultation page.