Top Benefits of Summer Camp For Children

Many people fondly remember the endless, carefree summer days of childhood. However, as parents, we may have mixed feelings about this season for our kids. How will we manage childcare while working? How can we avoid the “I’m bored!” comments? Are there any educational summer activities? Why are our grocery bills and electricity so much higher?

The answer to these questions can be summed up in two words: SUMMER CAMP! Summer camp is not only fun, but it also has many benefits for children. Here are a few.

Socializing and Friendship Building

One of the greatest benefits of youth summer camp is that kids socialize and meet new people. Kids often struggle to maintain friendships during summer break and primarily interact with adults. Camp helps them learn life skills like sharing, setting boundaries, and problem-solving while developing solid relationships with peers. It offers a safe space for social skills, decision-making, and outdoor fun. Socializing can be more beneficial for growth than reading or eating veggies. Camp is a fantastic way to encourage this from early childhood to adolescence.

Eliminating Screen Time and Getting Exercise

Sedentary-related conditions are rising with technology everywhere. Physical inactivity is the leading cause of disease and disability in the U.S., starting in childhood. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), sedentary lifestyles increase mortality, double the risks of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, and raise the risks of colon cancer, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, lipid disorders, depression and anxiety. Summer camp is ideal to get kids active and reduce screen time. These outdoor programs offer several physical activities like hiking, archery, horseback riding, swimming, zip-lining, and team sports. Kids can have fun, exercise, and meet new friends, broadening their perspective during summer break.

Personal Growth, Learning, and Development

Most summer camps have themes and focus on learning, exploring, character-building, and personal growth. If you’re looking for fun summer activities for your kids, consider sports, cooking, art, and science camps. Camps entertain, educate, and challenge children, boosting learning, teamwork, problem-solving, and self-awareness. Studies show that 70% of parents say their kids gain self-confidence at camp. A strong sense of self is crucial, and camp can positively impact your child’s growth and development beyond the classroom.

Positive Role Models

Another benefit of summer camp is that it allows your child to interact with positive adult role models. Camp counselors, typically younger adults, volunteer or work part-time during their college summer break. These counselors are energetic, seen as “cool,” and often more relatable than parents. Counselors can be a tremendous asset for both your children and you. Seeing what their lives could look like in a few years can be helpful for kids. If the “cool camp counselor” has integrity and good character, your child will likely emulate them. It also gives your child or teenager a sense of community while working with others. Forming these role-model relationships can help kids develop the confidence, self-esteem, and skills they need to succeed in school and life. Overall, the more healthy, positive adult relationships a child or youth has, the more likely they will thrive in all areas long after summer camp.

Making Memories

Many adults recall their fondest memories as those sunny summer camp experiences. Unfortunately, kids today are missing out on the simplicity of life before the technological era. While times have changed, and there is value in that, nothing compares to preserving those simple, unplugged childhood memories. In addition to gaining decision-making, leadership, and social skills at summer programs, children also enjoy plenty of physical activity. Yes, your child may initially miss their phone, tablet, or gaming system. Still, once they start exploring, interacting with peers, engaging in various activities, and having new adventures, they will leave summer camp with stories, photographs, friendships, life lessons, and memories that will last a lifetime.