The Value of Summer Camp

My kids just finished an exciting week at Pine Ridge Day Camp, and the fun has just begun. In addition to finishing up this week of swimming, horseback riding, hiking, caving, arts & crafts and more, in two weeks we will be attending a Girl Scout gardening day camp, where I will also be in the role of counselor, as well as a week and a half of day camp at the local science center. Next year, I hope to begin to introduce them to their first experience at resident camp as well.

While I firmly believe that quality summer camp, whether resident or day, can be a valuable experience for all children,  I feel summer activities provide especially valuable opportunities for homeschooled children, as well as their parents. In addition to the obvious benefits of being able to try new experiences independently, homeschooled children get the opportunity to experience the day-to-day routine of the group experience, without having to commit to the grind and problems of public school, or the long-term expense of private school. Because camps are so varied, this experience can be catered to the interests and needs of the child, and also give the homeschooling parents and students a break from each other. 

If you are homeschooling, I urge you to look into what types of camp experiences might be available to your child. There are many opportunities available, including camps that share your religious values, and camps that welcome your presence and involvement if you desire. Many camps offer scholarships or funding for families who need assistance, through scouting organizations or churches, and some religious-oriented camps in the form of vacation Bible school, offer these experiences for free. 

When a child is ready, overnight camp is a fabulous independence-building experience for any child, and the memories, and sometimes skills, acquired there can last a lifetime.