8 Qualities of Summer Camp that Will Change Your Child’s Life

1.)    Opportunities to try to new things

While opportunities to try new things certainly exist outside of the summer camp realm, camps facilitate the opportunities to try new things and foster environments that encourages campers to venture outside their comfort zones.  Many a former camper attributes acquiring a new interest or hobby at summer camp.

2.)    Traditions

Tradition is the foundation of summer camp.  Summer camp itself is an American tradition.  Beyond that, however, individual camps have unique traditions that have been passed down through generations of campers.  Not only do campers gain an appreciation for the observation of tradition at summer camp, but they learn to understand the lifelong bonds that are created through shared traditions.

3.)    A View of Life beyond electronics

There is no doubt that we live in a society that values any and every gadget or gizmo that simplifies life and makes living convenient. Children are constantly surrounded by smart phones, gaming consoles, tablets, electronic readers, etc.  Two months at camp without technology overexposure not only reminds campers that life is possible without constantly being surrounded by electronics, it can be fun without them as well.

4.)    Solidarity

Whether it’s as a bunk or as a camp, campers learn how to co-exist with others in a harmonious manner.  They also learn to value the talents and skills that each person contributes to the success of the group and that shared successes can help people form connections that last long beyond their camp years.

5.)    Independence

Spending time away from Mom and Dad for several weeks every summer helps children learn how to function as individuals.  Campers make decisions every day that develop social, problem solving, and living skills.

6.)    Goal Setting

Whether it’s a goal to pass a swim test, reach the top of a climbing wall, stand up on water skis, do a cartwheel on the balance beam, or earn a solo in a camp show, campers often come to camp with goals.  Counselors and camp staff are eager each summer to tune into those goals and provide encouragement that helps campers focus on achieving them.

7.)    Open Mindedness

At camp, campers are encouraged to keep open minds about activities and each other.  Camps go to great lengths to provide positive programs that help campers understand and deal with many of the more challenging aspects of being adolescents and teenagers.  They also de-emphasize the aspects of tween and teen culture that promote social exclusivity.

8.)    Lifelong Connections

It’s no coincidence that a lot of camp staff members and parents who send their children to summer camp are former campers themselves.  Former campers understand and value the connections that are made at summer camp.  Such connections are more than just friendships.  The people at summer camp become a second family for campers and associations through camp have helped many a former camper gain admission to college with the help of reference letters, obtain employment, and establish a social circle that extends far beyond their school years.