Millions of children participate in youth sports every year. While it is great for kids to be
active, some families have bad experiences with over-aggressive coaches, even parents
who go too far when pushing kids at practice or cheering during a competition. Worries
about injuries are another reason that youth sports have seen a decline in recent years.
Getting kids outdoors and incorporating fun exercise into their summer routine is
essential for good health, so if parents do not want to enroll their children in a summer
sport a great alternative is camp.
Knowing which camp is the right one to send your child to can be a hard decision to
make. Parents have to worry about the camp’s reputation, if it encompasses activities that
interest their children and most importantly if the experience will help children grow and
learn new skills. The Camping and Education Foundation has created the following tips
to help parents compare camps and select the right one for their child.
Match Age with Activity – Look for a camp that will challenge your child as he or she
grows and that offers varying levels of activities. Children can start off as campers, they
can learn new skills as they get older and eventually take on a leadership role as a camp
counselor.
Stretch Boundaries – A camp that offers activities that pique your child’s interest should
be considered when researching options, but avoid choosing a camp that does not give
your child a chance to try new things and learn. A well-balanced camp experience should
be a top priority, one where children have the freedom to do what they enjoy and the
chance to branch outside of their comfort zone.
Disconnect from Technology – It is a well-known fact that children spend too much time
staring at screens today. Many summer camps do not allow children to bring cell phones
or have access to computers and video games while at camp. While at first children can
feel isolated, by the end of camp they will have had free time to enjoy nature, discover
them selves and make new friends without the influence of technology.
Consider Nutrition – Mystery meat, pizza and nachos are called to mind when many
people think about stereotypical camp food. But, many camps offer healthy meal choices
filled with fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Plus, if your child has a special diet do not
be surprised that you can find summer camps that cater to gluten-free and other
allergy/special dietary requirements.
Talk to Alumni – Quality summer camps will have dozens of parents and children
willing to sing its praises. As part of your research process, ask camp directors if there are
parents in your area you can speak with to learn more about what they thought of the
camp and their children’s experience.
Start with a Test Drive – If you or your child is nervous about heading to summer camp
for the first time, test the waters. Sign up for a short session to start and if your child
enjoys the experience, plan for a longer, more immersing experience next summer.
About The Camping and Education Foundation
The Camping and Education Foundation’s mission is to develop young men and women
in body and spirit through wilderness experiences that celebrate a love of the outdoors.
This mission is as strong today as it was ninety-two years ago when Camp Kooch-i-ching
first opened its doors to young men on Deer Island and for the past twelve years that
Camp Ogichi Daa Kwe has been open for young women. For more information, visit:
www.campingedu.org.
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