It's summertime! The kids are home, the pools are filled, and there seems to be an endless supply of burgers. Summer tends to be the few months out of the year where the constant stress of school, sports, and other activities seem to disappear. Sounds lovely right? Well, what happens as soon as the kids start complaining that there's nothing to do? Many kids tend to spend their summer at home while others go to some sort of a summer camp. Well, I'm here to tell you why you should never send your kid to camp.
1. They'll Have Fun
Surprise! If you send your kid to camp they might actually have fun, without the parents. While the parents get to spend a week kid-free, their child will be running around having the time of their life. Who knows, you might actually get to do that project that you have been putting off for months.
2. They'll Become Independent
By sending your child to camp they will be able to learn how to take care of themself and approach people on their own. They will have to get up and be ready in time to go to breakfast, listen to the camp rules, make good decisions when their counselors are busy, and help out around the camp. Parents, if you definitely want your child to rely on you for anything and everything their entire life, then keep them bored at home.
3. No Electronics
With all of the different forms of social media, video games, and electronics that surround kids, it is easy to keep them entertained. At camp they will actually have to go without all of this for a week? Oh no, how will they survive?! Trust me, taking some time to unplug is a good thing. Kids learn to appreciate nature and have face to face interactions with other kids their age.
4. They Can Relax
Depending on the age of the child, during the school year they are swamped with homework, projects, and a variety of sports. At camp, they won't need to worry about all of those things. Your child can actually be a kid and have some fun!
5. They'll be Active
If having your child sitting on the couch all summer is okay to you, then camp is a terrible choice. Kids will be walking around doing different outdoor activities and will even be running around playing games. If you are scared about them getting a bump or scratch here or there while they have fun, then cross camp off of your list.
6. Their Self-Esteem Will Grow
This goes hand in hand with #2. If you would like to do all of the talking for your child, then allowing them to grow is a bad idea. At camp they will become confident in themselves by being able to approach other children on their own and make friends. Also, by learning skills such as canoeing or archery, they will realize that they can learn new things.
7. They Could Find Something They Like
At home, kids are often exposed to the same things over and over again. At camp they might find a new sport, skill, or even food that they enjoy. They'll never find out, though, if you say 'no' to camp.
8. Memories
Growing up and making strong memories with your child is very important. However, it is okay to let them make their own memories without you. You can ask them all about their adventure when they come home.
As you can see it is very important that you "never" send your kid to camp.
