Overnight summer camp is more than Fun & Games. Sure, the plan is to have fun and make new friends. Research is showing that computers and robots will take away many jobs in the future. But what technology can not achieve, are the soft interpersonal skills. Living with others in a communal setting like camp provides campers to learn empathy, problem solving skills, leadership and independence.
The Top 10 Outcomes of Experiential Learning at Camp
“Camp is an experience every child deserves,” according to the American Camp Association (ACA), which accredits more than 2,400 camps serving more than 7.2 million children and teens. Specifically, ACA points to the "joy" kids experience when they make new friends and the inherent value in unplugging from their electronic devices, enjoying being out of doors, connecting with other young people, and learning about themselves.
And the ACA adds that, from a quantifiable perspective, the outcomes of a summer camp experience include the same skills that are needed in the 21st Century.
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Friendship skills: Make friends and maintain relationships.
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Independence: Rely less on adults and other people for solving problems and day-to-day activities.
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Teamwork: Be more effective working in groups of peers.
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Family citizenship: Gain attributes important to being a member of a family.
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Perceived competence: Believe that they can be successful in the things they do.
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Interest in exploration: Be more curious and eager to learn new things.
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Responsibility: Learn to be accountable for their own actions and mistakes.
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Affinity for nature: Develop feelings of emotional attraction toward nature.
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Problem-solving confidence: Believe they have abilities to resolve problems.
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Spiritual well-being: Develop purpose and meaning in life.
Gaining experience in these highly valued non-cognitive or soft skills will be life changers for today's youth. Cap provides a safe place to hone leadership and social entrepreneurship skills.
