Highlights of the Summer Camp Experience

Going to summer camp is an enriching experience that changes a kid’s life for the better. Every boy and girl should be able to enjoy all of the opportunities for personal development that will impact every aspect of their life. While summer camp stories are full of jokes about camp food and cabin pranks, the truth is that there is far more to summer camp than telling stories around the campfire. In addition to the classic camping adventures, here are some more highlights of summer camp that every kid should experience.

Improve Athletic Performance

Sports programs in schools have expanded to include more options such as tennis, lacrosse and gymnastics. However, the summer break can cause kids to lose critical skills which can have an impact on their performance. At summer camp, kids can utilize their break to participate in fun, challenging training sessions along with friendly competitions that will keep their skills fresh. Playing in inter-camp competitions also lets kids learn new techniques from others who share their love of a favorite sport.

Get Comfortable On the Water

Summer camp wouldn’t be summer camp without a daily dip in a lake or pool. In fact, many kids find that their swimsuit is the most important piece of clothing they pack. Younger kids and new campers always begin with swimming lessons to teach them water safety. Once a camper knows how to swim, the options are limitless. Water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking and canoeing are just a few fun ways for kids to step out of their comfort zone and learn how to maneuver safely across the water.

Develop Creative Expression

Summer camp crafts have come a long way since the days of making lanyards. Today, kids have a ton of options for developing their creativity. Pottery is a favorite summer camp craft that they can literally sink their hands into and woodworking is another popular class that allows them to make everything from a chessboard to a jewelry box for mom. Kids who prefer drama can also put on plays and talent shows for their fellow campers. Budding guitarists and drummers can also hone their skills with lessons and form a band to serenade their friends around the campfire.

Give Back to the Community

At summer camp, kids learn what it means to participate in building a community. From welcoming newcomers to helping clean up the cabin, kids develop a sense of ownership and personal responsibility regarding their camp environment. As campers progress through the different age levels, they also begin to expand their reach to other parts of the community. For example, swim-a-thons are a fun way for kids to raise funds for underprivileged kids to visit camp, and campers are encouraged to help out with established programs to build homes and stock food pantries in neighboring communities.

Camping, hiking and horseback riding are a few things kids expect when they go to summer camp. Yet, the summer camp experience encompasses far more than some outdoor adventures. From learning to help others to improving their skill set, kids at summer camp always return home transformed by their experiences.

If you're considering sending your child to an overnight summer camp, be sure to visit our site to learn about Camp Walt Whitman. Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Camp Walt Whitman offers a safe, nurturing environment in a beautiful mountain setting. Our camp is a coed sleepaway camp, with separate areas for boys and girls. The kids have a blast, and make friendships that can last a lifetime. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/about-sleepaway-summer-camp.html