The Value of Prioritizing Summer Camp

The single greatest benefit of summer camp is the community and connection it creates. We all, as human beings, desire a sense of belonging, to feel a part of a community and to connect with others. We believe one of the most valuable things you can do for your child is to prioritize summer camp.

Children, even before the current events of this day, are keenly aware of the goings-on around them at school, home and in their community. They hear adults discuss the gamut of topics that consume our world and impact the choices we make. Every choice you make as a parent, whether it is vocalized to your child or not, sends them a message. A message of what is important, what has value and what they, in turn should value and prioritize.

This is not something we often think about as we are going about our day. What message am I sending my child with my choices, my words and my priorities? However, our children are learning and shaping their opinions based on our priorities.

Children are always looking forward to the next step in life. Catherine just turned four in December, but two days ago she met someone new saying “I’m Catherine and I’m four, but next I’m going to be five.” While I want her to enjoy the time she is in and to enjoy every minute of being four, children receive so much joy in the anticipation of what is to come. The next birthday, the next sleepover, the next holiday and especially the next summer at camp.

We believe that anticipation is a gift of making camp a priority. Looking forward to summer, the excitement of who will be in your cabin, the endless possibilities of fun that await you…this is a valuable part of the joy in the camp experience. By choosing camp first in your children’s summer schedule amidst the family vacation, sports practices, play dates and reunions, you are communicating to your child that you are invested in their growth, their sense of belonging and that sense of wonder in their anticipation of the joy and gift of camp.

Summer camp builds character, fosters authentic meaningful relationships, provides an environment for children to grow socially and emotionally, a chance to step away from technology and the list goes on.

You as a parent are building character and sending a valuable message to your child when you choose camp:

I believe in your confidence to make new friends.

I believe you have the courage to try new things.

I believe that you are responsible enough to be away from home.

I believe your kindness will impact the community of camp.

I believe you will cooperate well with your cabinmates.

I believe you have integrity to make good choices when I am not around.

I believe you are resilient to overcome failures and try again.

Confidence, courage, responsibility, kindness, cooperation, integrity and resilience…these are the words we want our children to hear. Your greatest message in prioritizing camp for your child is, “You’ve got this! I believe in you!”