Social Benefits of Summer Camp Programs

There are big reasons why children want to go to summer camps. Yes, we know that they enjoy the educational activities. They’ll also tell you that they go for the fun. There is a whole gamut of activities that campers are engaged in that contribute to the development of their general well-being. However, one benefit that both campers, camp organizers and parents overlook is how the children develop socially. This aspect of development is crucial because it is where children learn who they are and how to interact with the people that come into their space. Here are some important social benefits for children attending summer programs.

• Children operate in a community environment – From the moment a child enters a camp facility, he or she is thrust into a community of people. It is a very great time and opportunity to meet a variety of people from different places and also cultures. Kids will find that the summer camp environment does not work like the one at school and they have more opportunities to interact with others.

 

• There is Opportunity to Learn about other Cultures – Children come from different areas and very often, different countries. Perhaps it’s the curiosity or the novelty of knowing something new, but children are bolder in finding out how others live. Children from other parts are also quick to share themselves and their space. Very soon you’ll never know there is a difference between them.

 

• New Friendships are formed – There is hardly any time for cliques in a camp environment. Children work in teams and develop a bond with team members to achieve the goal of the group. Original friendships remain but new friends are gained as children share interests, values and talents. When children get home they will be emailing, texting and even calling to maintain the new friendships.

 

• Children Learn Helpfulness – As kids work together to solve problems through the activities they engage in, they meet upon challenges. However, they learn to assist those who are weaker in an area. The very nature of teamwork allows them to give a helping hand.

 

• They Build Self-Esteem and Overcome Shyness – Some children are shy and not assertive or confident in doing things. Summer camps are great places to help your child overcome this aspect of their development. They are also fortunate to have great camp counselors who can engage them in activities and make them develop more confidence in presenting themselves in front of others. Involvement in art, dance, and a wide variety of games, are just some of the activities planned to have your child ready and motivated to do whatever he or she is asked.

 

• Children Learn Social Etiquette – One of the things you will want your child to learn is how to operate correctly or appropriately in the presence of others. Whether through deliberate programs, or learning from others in their groups, children will learn how to behave correctly in social settings. They learn not to talk out of turns. They learn to respect others views. They learn to show respect to persons in authority and others. They learn appropriate behavior at the dining table.

 
One of the most important benefits of children attending summer programs is learning how to interact with others. This development will be crucial for them as they will use it in their adult life.