The Benefits of Summer Camp for Kids

Summer is here, and if you’re wondering how to keep your kids engaged during the break, camp is a fantastic option. It offers a fun environment where children can learn, grow and make lasting memories. In just a few weeks, they’ll gain experiences that last a lifetime, as well as new friendships and practical skills.

Discover all the amazing benefits summer camp can offer your child.

1.   Builds Social Skills

Talk to any parent whose child has been to summer camp, and you’ll likely hear all about the friendships their kids made. Camp is a special place where kids learn to step outside their comfort zones and connect with people from different backgrounds.

Imagine your child with other kids, facing challenges side-by-side, bonding over shared interests and building lasting connections. It’s also an opportunity for them to learn about respecting differences and appreciating each other’s uniqueness.

2.   Encourages Independence

Summer camp provides a safe space for your child to make decisions, deal with challenges and learn more about themselves in a supportive environment. The time away from you is important for their self-identity development. As they discover their strengths and weaknesses, they become more self-reliant, which is vital to becoming a self-sufficient individual.

3.   Teaches Teamwork

Summer camp offers a supportive environment where children participate in activities that require teamwork. For instance, your kid and their bunkmates need to clean their cabin to earn points or collaborate on a skit for a talent show.

However, teamwork isn’t smooth sailing, and facilitators can guide kids to overcome inevitable bumps, like minor disagreements and frustration. As your child experiences more collaborative activities, they’ll learn how to compromise and communicate effectively.

4.   Provides a Break From Screens

A study found that kids ages 9 to 17 spend more than two hours a day on their devices, especially on weekends and holidays. The more screen time they have, the higher the risk of health issues like muscle and joint pain, eye problems and even mental health challenges.

Camp will help your child find joy beyond the screen. They’ll rediscover the simple, profound joys of face-to-face interactions, unstructured play and engaging with nature. This taste of an unplugged life can encourage appreciation for the outdoors.

5.   Develops Lifelong Skills

Summer camp teaches kids lifelong skills that will serve them for years to come. Your child will learn simple tasks like making their own bed and more profound lessons like problem-solving in action.

Even day camps offer a great experience and introduction to these invaluable skills. Campers make decisions, follow schedules and solve problems, all while returning to their homes in the afternoon. It follows the same schedule as going to school, making them feel more confident and comfortable if they’re not ready for a sleep away camp.

6.   Promotes Physical and Mental Stimulation

Physical activities are well-disguised as fun games at summer camp, allowing kids to stay fit without realizing it. Children are always on the move, walking around, playing outside and engaging in team sports.

Gadgets are banned, so they have no choice but to socialize and engage in activities that stimulate their minds and bodies. Exposure to various activities, like canoeing, drama and nature scavenger hunts, can help them discover hidden talents and inspire future hobbies.

7.   Increases Confidence

A study showed that camp participants have higher self-esteem, more positive emotions and stronger readiness to contribute to the community. Summer camps are a place of many firsts — the first time kids build a fire, perform in front of an audience or tie a knot. Each moment is a big win that will fuel your child’s confidence. Unlike competitive environments, camp offers a supportive environment where trying, failing and winning are equally celebrated.

How to Choose the Right Summer Camp for Your Child

What makes a great summer camp? Consider these factors to help you decide.

• Do a background check: Visit the camp’s website to learn more about safety protocol, employee training and certifications. Ask questions about how it keeps kids safe from injury or abuse.

• Ask for references: Ask fellow parents about your prospective camp. Learn what they — and their child — think of the experience, staff, food and safety.

• Involve your child in the decision: What excites your child? Are they passionate about sports or making new friends? Camps have various offerings, from outdoor activities to creative pursuits, ensuring every kid finds something they love. Browse options together and show them videos to excite them.

Enjoy the Benefits of Summer Camp

Summer camp is much more than playtime. It’s a carefully designed environment that shapes resilient, confident and skilled young individuals. Enroll your child in a camp and invest in their holistic development.

Author bio:  Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She strives to live a happy and healthy life with her family by her side.
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