DID YOU KNOW?

Summer Camp 101

The summer camp experience is a beloved part of childhood for many and one that has benefits that last a lifetime.

Courtesy of the American Camp Association

Many individuals have happy memories of summers spent with friends at camp, playing outside, learning new things and just having fun in general. The American Camp Association, a community of camp professionals that works to ensure the quality of camp programs across the country and enrich the lives of children, youth and adults through the camp experience, took a look at the industry and how it benefits kids each year.

What's Happening in 2021?

Youth will be able to have even more camp experiences this year, including overnight camps in most states — with the exception of Illinois, Washington and Puerto Rico. For both day and overnight camps, Florida will be following 2020 guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including promoting behaviors that reduce COVID-19 spread (such as washing hands, wearing masks and staying home when appropriate), cleaning and disinfecting facilities, and staff training, among others.

Summer Camp Benefits

Summer camp has a variety of benefits outside of providing a fun place for kids to play and learn while school is out, including increased self-confidence and self-esteem. Results from phase one of the ACA Youth Outcomes Study revealed that former campers reported learning relationship skills, emotional regulation, appreciation for others' differences and responsibility while at camp and that camp helped prepare them for school and the workplace.

The essential educational and developmental gains from summer camp will be most relevant this year following disrupted school schedules from the pandemic. In 2021, summer camp experiences will help kids rebuild socially and emotionally.

CAMP BY THE NUMBERS

Camp Industry in a Normal Year • 15,000+ day and resident camps exist in the U.S. • 26 million+ youth are served • 1.2 million employees • $20 billion+ gross revenue • $26 billion+ economic contribution Preliminary Estimates of Economic Impact on Camp from 2020 COVID-19 Summer • $16 billion+ in lost revenue • 19.5 million youth who did not have day or overnight camp experiences • 900,000+ jobs lost • $4.4 billion+ wages lost • $21 billion less economic contribution