For children everywhere, summer is a time to relax and have fun. For many, it’s also a time for camp. Working and non-working parents have long relied on summer camps to occupy their children, and in fact, the first recreational summer camp was right here in Connecticut. The earliest summer camps were created in the 1870’s in response to the mass migration of families to cities after the Industrial Revolution. At the time, summer camp was only available for boys because experts believed that it would be detrimental for young boys to spend so many hours inside while their parents went to work at factories. Much better for them to be out in nature, engaging in appropriate outdoor male activities. Not long after, people realized kids of all genders and ages can benefit from summer camp experiences. Today, parents still recognize the advantages of signing their children up for summer camps. One of the most obvious is making social connections. Often, kids are separated from their classmates and peers over the summer months, so camp provides an opportunity to interact with kids they might not have the chance to during the school year. Lauren Decandido of Ridgefield says, “Camp is a great way for kids to strengthen their social skills and have a chance to foster new friendships.” Camp can also offer children a sense of independence, especially with a sleep away camp format. Ridgefielder Juliana Mitchell LaGuravenes sent her daughter to a 4-H camp with the hope that she would experience, in a safe environment, the separation and independence that a pre-teen needs to grow. She also wanted to help her daughter build upon that gained memory beyond the summer months. “We often remind her of her bravery in taking on that sleepaway camp and encourage her to be open to trying new activities while meeting new friends,” says Mitchell LaGuravenes. Mike Kazlauskas, Senior Camp and Sports Director of the Riverbrook YMCA in Wilton, agrees that one of the most valuable aspects of the summer camp experience is the opportunity for self-growth. “Camp is an environment that is rare to come by, where our youth have the ability to feel comfortable being themselves. Here, they can find out who they truly are,” he says. The YMCA’s Camp Gordyland offers a variety of unique and fun activities ranging from archery to gourmet cooking. “Whether it is getting the chance to step out of their shell to try a new game or conquering their fears on the High Ropes Course, camp is a truly magical place that brings joy, happiness, and confidence into the lives of so many children,” says Kazlauskas.Camps can also be educational. The unique history programs offered at Ridgefield’s Keeler Tavern Museum and History Center are a perfect example of how to balance learning with fun. Their Time Travel theme gives kids the opportunity to feel empowered as historians. They can let their imaginations run wild as they ‘travel’ back in time, exploring different time periods and finding clues to help interpret the past. “Keeler Kids summer program makes learning about local history fun, accessible, and engaging for kids of all ages – it’s the perfect combination of entertainment and education!” says KTM&HC Executive Director Hildegard Grob.The summer programs at Ridgefield Academy/Landmark Preschool also offer fun learning experiences. “Our summer camp experiences encourage campers to practice and master problem-solving, critical thinking, and social-emotional skills,” says Sara Abriola, Auxiliary Program Director at Ridgefield Academy. “Our programs inspire children to rise to their authentic selves, develop new friendships, and have fun!” Today’s parents often worry about kids’ excessive screen time. Summer camp is one way to ensure that children spend more time outdoors in the summer. “One thing that really resonated with me was the amount of outdoor time and that no devices were allowed!” says Mitchell LaGuravenes. When deciding to sign up for summer camp, it is important to select an appropriate camp for your child for the optimal experience. Talk to your child about their interests and wishes. Time spent at summer camps can resonate in a child’s life long after the season ends. “Summer camp memories and the skills learned can positively impact children for a lifetime!” says Abriola. •
