Sleepaway Summer: Positive Effects of Summer Camp on Kids

SLEEPAWAY SUMMER POSITIVE EFFECTS OF SUMMER CAMP ON KIDS Some TEN MILLION children in the United States are prepar- ing psychologically to go away to sleep-away camp. Whether these departing children are camp veterans or nervous rookies, they are mentally rehearsing being away from mom, dad and the comforts of home. When these children make it to camp the experience has a lot to offer them. Mastery of Skills Many summer camps offer unique activities that a lot of kids won't experience in everyday life. This gives them a chance to learn about things like... Kayaking Horse back Riding Water skiing Archery Develop Independence Learning to sleep away from home is a critical step on the way to independence. Summer camp can provide children a way to test them - selves in a new and challenging environment. ZZZ While a majority of summer camp is fun, campers will also learn to keep their cabin clean and orderly. College admissions officers often view campers as more likely to succeed in college because they have had successful experiences away from home. Gain Appreciation of Home & Nature Many camps do not allow electronic devices which may sound harsh but will give children a chance to slow down and enjoy other worthy experiences. Spending time away from home, and all its comforts, will help your child appreciate all that home offers - a warm bed, a refrigerator full of snacks, a bathroom of one's own, television, etc. Build Confidence & Self Esteem At camp children will be part of a community and live with a bunch of other kids. This will give them a chance to make new friends outside of their comfort zone. Parents also reported that the camp experience helped their child: • Feel good about themselves • Gain adventurousness and a willingness to try new things • Develop leadership skills Sources: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/michael-thompson-phd/sending-kids-to-summer-camp_b_1539726.html http://childparenting.obout.com/od/afterschoolactivities/a/CampEducation.html http://www.acacamps.org/media/aca-facts-trends INFOGRAPHIC DESIGNED BY NationalPositions River Way Ranch Camp Profitable Internet Marketing Memories and friendships to last a lifetime.