May 21st, 2024

Summer Sanity: Benefits for Summer Camp for
​Preschool and Early Elementary Families

      This year I heard a new term: Maycember. The craziness of the end of the school year rivals the craziness of the holidays! And it seems to start earlier and earlier every year. We very much welcome the relaxed schedule of the summer. Then the realization that the kiddos thrive when stimulated and on a schedule and we slowly lose it when there isn’t one. The answer: Summer Camps!!
     Whether you choose a week or two between family vacations or the whole summer, there are more benefits than just sanity. In our family, my oldest needed more independence and fostering social skills. My rising kindergartener spent her summer making new friends that she might be going to school with while learning responsibility of her belongings in a more structured environment.
     Here is a list of how Summer camps can offer a multitude of benefits for your preschoolers and
elementary campers:

1. Socialization: Preschoolers have the chance to interact with peers outside of their usual environments. This helps them develop social skills like sharing, taking turns, and cooperating.
2. Independence: Summer camps often encourage preschoolers and early elementary campers to try new activities on their own, fostering a sense of independence and confidence.
3. Physical activity: Many summer camps incorporate outdoor activities that promote physical fitness and coordination, which are crucial for healthy development.
4. Exploration: Camps often offer various activities like nature walks, arts and crafts, and sensory play, allowing preschoolers to explore and discover new interests.
5. Creativity: Through art projects, music, and imaginative play, preschoolers and early elementary kiddos can unleash their creativity in ways that might not be possible in a more structured setting.
6. Problem-solving skills: Activities at summer camps often involve challenges that require campers to think critically and solve problems, promoting cognitive development.
7. Nature connection: Camps held in natural settings offer opportunities for preschoolers to connect with nature, fostering a sense of appreciation and environmental awareness.
8. Teamwork: Many camp activities involve teamwork and cooperation, teaching preschoolers the importance of working together towards a common goal. 
9. Emotional development: Summer camps provide a supportive environment for preschoolers to express themselves, develop empathy, and learn to manage emotions.
10. Memorable experiences: Attending summer camp creates lasting memories that can help build a sense of nostalgia and belonging, contributing to overall happiness and well-being.

     There is really nothing like camp friends. Spending time doing your favorite things with your favorite people in the sun! The way I saw my two older campers thrive after just a half summer last year, I am so excited for them to go back for all sessions this season to continue growing in such a happy environment.  And a bonus to see my youngest join them.  I also can’t shout loud enough about the way I still have my camp friends from decades (I will NOT say how many) ago.