Many of today’s parents feel the frustration of their children growing up in a technology filled world. It seems like this generation of kids learns how to use tablets and phones before they take their first steps or say their first words. As a result, we have seen a decrease in outdoor playtime. But are the days of childhood adventure really gone? And is there a solution to this technology overload problem?

You shouldn’t give up hope just yet, because luckily, there is a great way to get your little ones out of the house and off their screens when this school year ends; summer camp. Here are just a few of the countless benefits that come with sending your kids away on an adventure they’ll look back on for years to come.

Confidence and Independence
For many kids, camp is their first real experience away from home. Sure, they may have slept over at a friend’s house a few times, but they’ve likely never had separation from their parents to this degree. While this can be nerve wracking for some children, it can also be a major independence booster. It is important to maintain communication with your kids throughout their time spent away but ultimately, this is their time to discover themselves. And being responsible for small tasks that are often done for them might even lead to them taking more initiative at home. Fingers crossed!

Friendship
The camp dynamic is wonderful for creating friendships among kids that may not necessarily cross paths in everyday life. Friendships seem to blossom quickly in a camp setting because of all the team building exercises and activities. If you send your child to a camp geared toward a particular interest or skillset (ex. Soccer camp) then this common ground necessary for bonding will likely be established even quicker. And, although camp doesn’t last very long, the friendships made there can result in lifelong bonds.

A Change of Pace
Like many parents, you may feel that your children do not get enough exercise. You might even think back to when you were younger and stayed outside until the streetlights came on. And you’re probably not wrong. Statistics by the National Recreation and Parks Association reveals that “Children today spend less time outdoors than any other generation, devoting only four to seven minutes to unstructured outdoor play per day while spending an average of seven and a half hours in front of electronic media.”

Summer camp can provide your children with some much-needed, long days spent in nature, allowing them to discover the joys of outdoor fun. Who knows? These playing habits may just stick and even make their way into your child’s routine once they return home.

The physical and emotional benefits are only some of the countless upsides that come with the camp experience. So, if your child is interested in having a fun summer adventure that will broaden their horizons, then summer camp may just be your best bet.