Camp’s Effect on Development
Message for New Families (and a good reminder for returners):
We know that sending your child to summer camp for the first time can feel like a big leap. So to help put you at ease, we will be providing you will weekly newsletters, snippets of information, and advice.
First, you’ve made a great decision. Summer camp is so important. Children learn so much more at camp than just how to play pickleball or the best way to rig a sail boat; they learn real life-lessons at camp.
Connections with peers. Not only will campers make important lifelong friendships, they will learn how to socialize and build connections WITHOUT TECHNOLOGY. Instead of liking a social media post, people are sitting on the deck together, making friendship bracelets and watching/playing table tennis. These connections are essential to development and help children create bonds that last after camp ends.
Courage to step outside of their comfort zone. Trying new things can be scary, but when you are encouraged and celebrated for it, it is empowering. We like to call this a responsible risk – trying something new safely and thoughtfully. Then, when campers are celebrated for that leap, it builds self-esteem, resilience, confidence, independence…. I could keep going.
Confidence and self-esteem. Campers build social confidence at camp. I have seen this firsthand when campers arrive shy and reserved then leave camp with new social skills, more confidence and deeper connections. Children should feel like they can do anything. At Windsor Mountain, we pride ourselves in providing this experience.