Why do children and teens make ‘summer camps’ part of their lives
Millions of children and teens across the world spend some of their summer holidays going to camp. It’s practically a tradition in America and is becoming more and more popular across the globe.
There are many different reasons why children and teens make camp a part of their lives each year and we thought it would be useful to list a few here:
- Trying new things and learning new skills
Camps offer a wide range of games and activities that aren’t available at your local sports centre or park. Children and teens might try archery, pottery, dance, high ropes courses, quad biking and a hundred other fun activities! Staying home and doing everyday things can be boring so camp widens the possibilities and opportunities to have fun and learn new skills.
- Meeting new people
Going to camp gives children and teens the opportunity to mix with people from different schools, cities and countries. It’s a great way to make new friends and learn about other places and cultures and for a child to realise that there is a bigger world out there than just their everyday life at home.
- Being challenged
Trying new sports, learning new crafts and games or pushing themselves to make friends with new people can be very rewarding and develop independence, self reliance, creativity and confidence. The group dynamic also provides a great way to learn about cooperation, compromise and tolerance.
- Getting a Change of Scenery
Sometimes it’s important to have a break from day to day life and camp offers the perfect opportunity to make a fresh start and find out how a child thinks, feels, and acts outside of their normal surroundings.
- Being Healthy
With all the fun, games, and physical activity, going to camp can be a great way to get exercise and fresh air and a much healthier way to hanging around at home all holiday.
- Having good role models
Camp leaders have endless energy, creativity and enthusiasm. They go through intensive training to make sure the activities that the children do on camp are safe and fun at all times. We often hear children and teens talking about the leaders like they are a ‘big brother’ or ‘big sister’ on camp. The great thing is though they are listened to as a peer, not as a parent.
- HAVING FUN!
And finally, camp is all about having a good time in a safe and friendly environment!
So when you hear those dreaded words “m-u-u-m-m-m, i’m bored!”, remember these reasons why summer camp could be the perfect option for your child or teen!
Richard Bernstein is Director of XKeys Ltd t/a Cross Keys, Mini Minors and XUK. You can read more about his camps on the website www.xkeys.co.uk or call for a chat on 020 8371 9686.