Never too young. Never too old.

Two of the youngest family members will be heading off to their first summer sleepover camp: I was thinking of what advice I’d give them.

• Look around at all the people in your cabin. Find a person you think you’d like to be like, and think about why that is.

• Pay attention to who is kind, who is shy, who is loud.

• Avoid people who are mean and people who gossip.

• Take your time figuring out who you are.

• Accept that you may not be friends with everyone – that’s okay.

• Be helpful. Especially notice if the ones who are shy or loud – or even mean – might need some kindness, some friendship or support, even if it’s in the form of a smile or a nod.

• Defend the defenseless.

• Avoid pride, over-confidence and bragging.

• Don’t talk trash about other people.

• Be kind – to everyone, your friends and those who are not.

• If you do all this, you might find yourself being a leader. That's okay, but be humble. There is always more for you to learn. There are always others to learn from.

• You can always ask for help.

• Don't be afraid to say no -- or to change your mind.

• Trust your instincts.

Come to think of it, I should take my own advice. Anyone should. It doesn’t matter how old you are or what you’re doing this summer.

You’re never too young. You’re never too old.