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Benefits of Camp

By Andrew Yankowitz

     The summer is coming: what to do with the kids? They could lounge around and hang out with old friends, or go to camp and make new ones that could last a lifetime.

     To determine how camp enriched the lives of children, the American Camp Association (ACA) conducted a research study on the experiences of campers. A research firm collected data at 92 randomly selected camps; more than 3,400 families from around the country participated.

     The results of the study confirmed that camp builds the skills necessary to prepare for adulthood. Parents, campers, and camp staff independently reported growth in areas such as self-confidence, independence, and making friends. Indeed, camp provides growth experiences for youth that can benefit them throughout life.

Campers Say:

• Camp helped me make new friends. (96%)
• Camp helped me to get to know kids who are different from me. (93%)
• The people at camp helped me feel good about myself. (92%)
• At camp, I did things I was afraid to do at first. (74%)

Parents Say:

• My child gained self-confidence at camp. (70%)
• My child continues to participate in some of the new activities he or she learned at camp. (63%)
• My child remains in contact with friends made at camp. (69%)

     What an amazing opportunity to help your child grow! Camp promotes your child’s development by providing fun, friendship, and leadership in a supportive community away from home.

     Camp is a wholesome escape from the pressures of school and vices of urban sprawl. It’s a change of pace. Camp can help kids become the person they want to be. Young people can relax and learn life skills - such as making friends and playing fair -that will serve them and the people whose lives they touch.

     For years, campers’ parents have reported that when their children return home from camp they are more caring, understand the importance of giving, are more equipped to stand up for what they know is right, and are willing to be more responsible and trustworthy. Camp helps children grow by providing a supervised, positive environment that has safety as a primary commitment. These personal characteristics are reflected in the four “C’s” of the camp community: compassion, contribution, commitment, and character.

     Andrew Yankowitz is the Owner/Director of Tall Pines Day Camp which is celebrating its 10th Anniversary. Tall Pines is located in Williamstown, NJ and serves Center City Philadelphia, the Jersey Shore and all of South Jersey.