Why Homeschooling and Summer Camps Go Hand-in-Hand
Homeschooling has rapidly evolved over the years. Thanks to a combination of proactive, community-minded parents and modern technology, children are no longer forced to go without socialization the way previous generations of homeschoolers were. From different public and private homeschooling networks, to video chats with teachers and fellow students, homeschooled children are more connected to the world around them than ever. Still, the idea of sending a child from a homeschool environment to an overnight camp for the first time can make some families unsure. But combining the benefits of homeschooling with the right summer camp can work wonders for a kid.
The beauty of the homeschool summer camp collaboration is that there is a good chance camp reflects the same values projected at home. There are countless reasons parents choose to homeschool their childr
en, but overall, it comes down to some basic principles. Some families believe having a greater hand in their kid’s schooling will get them the highest quality education and best prepare them for college and adulthood. Other families might see that public schools can have a less-controlled social environment that some kids can react badly to. Or perhaps families recognize that there are children who simply thrive outside of a traditional schooling format. At a smaller camp like Swift Nature Camp, we are incredibly intentional about discovering what makes each kid unique and how we can adapt to their needs rather than conforming to the needs of everyone else. We also believe in the power of positive peer-pressure, doing our best to facilitate character-building friendships and eliminate all forms of bullying. And education is a major focus in our activities, emphasizing both basic skills and life-long lessons.
Being in a cabin at Swift Nature Camp can be especially beneficial to a child from a home-school background because it goes beyond basic socialization and builds a sense of comradery unlike any other. It is the perfect place to learn the true value of a community and develop a healthy respect for everyone in it. Perhaps the most under-appreciated aspect of summer camp is that it provides an environment in which traits and characteristics of future leaders can blossom. There are few things more gratifying in this line of work than watching a kid emerge as a leader amongst their peers.
Attending a residential summer camp can have benefits for home-schoolers years down the road, as well. The ability to adapt to a new environment and be comfortable way from home is an underrated skill. Young adults are routinely sent off to college without ever having been away from family for extended periods and can find it surprisingly difficult to cope. A study published on hap.org revealed nearly 70% of first year college students report sever homesickness to the point where it affected their coursework. A sleepaway camp is an ideal way to hone this skill and better prepare them for the future.
The right summer camp is beneficial for any child, but when a child comes from a homeschool environment they have an ever greater chance to thrive at overnight summer camp. Plus with SNC only 2 hours from Minneapolis /St. Paul Minnesota it is easy for parents to have a visit and see all the personal growth and fun their campers are having.
