More than just activities...

Yesterday was YMCA Healthy Kids Day, and I spent the morning sitting outside chatting with people who walked by my table, and had some kind of interest in camp.  I talked to a few parents who had fond memories of their own camp days, and couldn't wait until their child was old enough to attend, and other parents who had children well old enough, but couldn't imagine sending their child away for a week.  While talking to all of these families, I noticed that one of the more common questions asked of me was "what kind of activities do you offer?".  This is one of the easier questions to answer:  I can rattle off a list of camp activities in my sleep.

A list of activities gives an insight into how we fill the days at camp, but it is only a few brushstrokes when trying to paint the picture of the value of camp.  Camp is a place where the rules are simple:  try and live by the character traits of honesty, respect, responsibility and caring, and have fun while you do so.  Kids tend to pick up quickly on things like independence, sharing, confidence, and trying new things.  No one complains about having to make their bed every morning because they want a high score on cabin inspection.

Most of all, camp is a place where everyone belongs.  It is a place where making friends is easy, and everyone has something in common.  Camp is a unique place that strikes the balance of allowing people to simultaneously grow up, while allowing them the chance to really enjoy childhood.  It is an experience that every child should have the opportunity to try.