This I Believe….
Something I believe to be very important in the development of children
and adults alike is participation in a camp. Many people go through life never
having experienced summer camp or any other type of camp. Although it may
not seem like a big deal, I think that much is missed when experiences such as
those gained at camp are overlooked.
All camps are not the same, but most provide similar positive impact on
not only those who attend as campers, but also those who participate as
volunteers and counselors or staff.
I was a camper for many years: I attended a week long camp in the
summer and also attended various day camps in which I would participate in
many activities and classes with many other children my age, though many times
I had never met the majority of the other children until I arrived at the camp.
Camp may not seem like a big deal to most people. In fact, some people
may see it as a pointless waste of time and money. However, when a child goes
to a camp of any sort they are developing in ways they have never developed
before. They are away from their guardians so they are learning independence,
they are improving their social skills by meeting and talking to new people, and
they are learning to be leaders and individuals while still being part of a
supportive community.
I think this is vital for children, especially those who attend or plan to
attend a public university or go to public schools. Children learn how to interact
with one another in an effective and positive way. They find common interests
with other kids and make friends with people that they may have never had the
opportunity to meet had they not come to camp.
As a former camper, junior counselor, and adult leader, I think that
attending camp as a child or young adult should definiately be on one’s priority
list if it is only a one time experience.