How a Traditional Summer Camp Can Benefit Kids All Year Long

When kids have the experience of spending time in a traditional camp setting they are exposed to a number of different activities and challenges that can equip them with skills that will be useful far beyond the summer.

Camp is a great place for kids to gain some independence and discover their sense of self. Time spent at camp in the company of counselors and other kids gives children the opportunity to recharge and get ready for the school year and even empower them to take more healthy risks when they are back at school.

“With more opportunity to engage in various activities both socially and physically, kids are exposed to so much more at a traditional camp, than say a camp with a singular focus,” says Howie Feinstein, owner of Kenwal Day Camp in Melville, NY. “Being at camp helps kids to socialize and to take more risks say to join a math club, or a drama class, or a sports team when they are back at school.”

Just think of a traditional camp setting; it’s all about fun. While children may feel pressure or the need to compete with other students at school, camp is all about having a good time and supporting other campers. Kids might not even be aware of the support they are receiving; they just know it feels good. “Kids are often afraid to attempt something that they have never done before, but when they are exposed to different activities at summer camp, with peers and counselors supporting them, it’s a lot easier for them to take that healthy risk and they will carry that feeling with them long after the summer is over,” says Feinstein.

The same sense of accomplishment happens with so many activities in traditional day camp. Campers may be hesitant to go swimming, drive a go-cart, take their first bus ride, shoot a bow and arrow, or ride a mountain bike, but the more they succeed at different activities, in different situations, with different people, the more they build their confidence and self esteem. At camp, children are more apt to continue to try new things and learn because there are procedures and safety measures that go along with each to ensure their success.