Written by Josh Skrupskas
The tools and skills we need to be successful adults in life are actually learned many years prior to adulthood. The situations we face as children and young adults shape the person we become and how we choose to face the ever-changing world around us. It is common knowledge that camps are a fun and safe way for children to spend a part of their holidays but studies have found that camps can play a pivotal role in skill development for children as well.
Recent studies have shown that camp is the ideal avenue for psychosocial development in children. Camps provide their participants with a wide variety of different activities that will indirectly test many different skills in the process. This gets children to try new activities they may not have normally, some of which they will excel at, while others they will not. This allows for children to develop the coping strategies necessary when dealing with the successes and failures of everyday life. Councilors will try to push their campers out of their typical comfort zone giving them an opportunity to learn more about themselves in the process.
The social interaction between campers as well as with the councilors further develops the social skills necessary for later in life. Yes, children interact in a school setting everyday but they are shadowed with a preconceived notion of who they are or who they ought to be. Camp allows children to wipe away the stereotypes, gain new confidence and make new long lasting relationships.
A study conducted by the American Camp Association of 5000 families found that parents and children alike noticed after camp significant growth in:
- Self-esteem
- Peer relationships
- Independence
- Adventure and Exploration
- Leadership
- Environmental Awareness
- Friendship Skills
- Values and Decisions
- Social Comfort
- Spirituality
Camp provides the ideal balance between structure and free time. It allows for your children to follow a routine but also helps children find suitable activities for their free time. The physical, mental and emotional benefits of sending a child to camp cannot be overlooked and gives children the confidence and skills they need to be successful adults in the future.
Written by Josh Skrupskas
