Since Frederick Gunn founded the first camp in 1861, summer camp has been known to be a powerful experience for youth, and one that can help to strengthen the values that parents teach daily. Camps provide a unique adventure that, by its very nature, can build a child's confidence and bolster their sense of self-worth.

Summer camp brings back many memories to veteran campers from years gone by, and conjures very distinct images in the minds of future campers, too. From camp fires, s'mores and songs to archery and fishing, there are many things we connect with summer camp that haven't wavered through the years.

A child may have the opportunity to experience a bonfire pep rally at their school, or make microwave s'mores at home, but only at summer camp are they expected to assist in collecting the wood and building the fire. And Mom certainly wouldn't approve of taking a seat in the dirt and skewering your dessert with a stick!

Another key component of any camp is helping campers meet new people and make new friends. Building strong friendships is an integral part of camp because, through friends, a child learns the values that are the building blocks to a strong self-esteem.

Because of the way camps are typically structured, they provide daily opportunities to learn the art of cooperation, to make unselfish choices and to establish lasting friendships, offering campers an ideal setting for character development.

Because of the nature of teamwork required, campers not only learn more about themselves and their surroundings, but have the opportunity to create friendships that could last a lifetime.

While at camp, children share many experiences with one another. Lasting friendships can be built from those shared experiences through talking about them, and establishing new traditions together.

Learn more about this author, Leah Newman.
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