Summer Camp-Learninging Making Friends and Having Fun. By Dr. Dana Harris Parents, Grandparents, Caregivers... brace yourself as elementary, middle and high schools prepare to close its doors for summer break in just a few short weeks! As the thrill of warmer temperatures, sunny beaches and images of a luxurious vacation begin to emerge, for those of you with school-age kids, it also means pulling out the summer calendar and those appealing catalogs in hopes of finding the most suitable activities guaranteed to keep your kids physically active and socially engaged during the hot summer months ahead. Summer camps are a great option that have been in existence for more than 150 years. And while it’s amazing to see 14 million children across the globe head off to camp this summer, it’s the benefits and the outcomes; the stories of positive impact that really stand out. Without question, summer camp offers a structured opportunity for your child to learn and grow in ways that you never imagined. It’s a unique opportunity that will empower your child to foster lifelong memories.
42 • Augusta Family | April 2019
According to the Center for Disease Control, obesity in children has doubled, and in teens has quadrupled in the last 30 years. Thanks to the many activities that summer camps offer, kids can remain healthy and physically active. What’s more is that summer camps are also working to offer healthier food choices for the young energetic camper. Summer camp is a community away from home and school where kids learn to work with each other and adult mentors, build relationships and manage conflict. In fact, it’s the best of both worlds – the child gets the irreplaceable experience of summer camp while parents retain their piece of mind. Whether you’re contemplating on sending your child to the little camp down the street or an overnight outfit a few states away, it’s every parent’s concern to select a quality camp that sets high goals, demonstrates quality standards and provides an enjoyable learning experience in which your child can grow and thrive in today’s world. Listed below are a few noteworthy tips on how to pick a winner!
