GoodLifeFamilyMag.com MARCH | APRIL 2019 41 By Helene Abrams | Contributor WHY SHOULD MY CHILD SUMMER CAMPS PLANNING GUIDE S ummer camp can be one of the most rewarding, unforgettable experiences in a child’s life. Camp provides children with a community of caring mentors who provide experiential education that leads to self-respect and appreciation for life. In addition to great friendships and enduring memories, many important life skills are learned at camp. Here are some of the top reasons your child should go to camp: TO TRY NEW THINGS Camppusheschildrenoutoftheircomfortzoneandexposesthem to new activities and experiences that they may not be familiar with. Campers get the opportunity to try out different things and discover new hobbies or passions. By exploring various types of activities, children have a greater chance of finding something that they excel at or that makes them happy. TO DEVELOP SOCIAL SKILLS Camp teaches children to communicate, to work together as part of a team, and to be a leader. Leadership is developed by asking campers to fulfill responsibilities that may not be expected of themelsewhere,whilesharingresourcesandattentionhelpsfoster teamwork and the desire to participate. Camp allows children to get away from technology and unplug for a while. They actually talk to each other and develop communication skills. TO FACE CHALLENGES & LEARN THE VALUE OF HARD WORK Because they feel safe at camp, children are comfortable taking Continued on next page Summer Camp Planning Guide GO TO CAMP?