5 Reasons Why Summer Camp Is Important

Ahh, summer. Between the warm weather, the long days, and the opportunities for family vacations and activities, what's not to love?

If you're a parent, however, it's likely that the prospect of summer is the source of some anxiety for you, too. In addition to looking forward to swimming and time outdoors, you might also be wondering, what am I going to do with my kids? This is especially true for parents who have jobs and need to find childcare when schools are out of session. 

For parents who find themselves in this situation, summer camps for kids can be an attractive alternative to hiring a babysitter or signing kids up for daycare. In addition to keeping your kids safe and cared for, there are a slew of benefits of summer camp—both for your kids, and for you!

Opportunities to Socialize

Experts agree that social relationships are important for children. By spending time and interacting with their peers, children learn social skills such as communication, cooperation, and problem solving. Particularly for adolescents and teens, healthy friendships can help improve students' academic performance and act as both a source of support and a buffer against mental health issues. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated the importance of social connection for children, many of whom experienced isolation as a result of being switched to a virtual learning format. Summer camps provide a constructive, supervised setting in which children can meet new friends or spend time with existing ones while school is not in session. 

Exercise and Physical Activity

According to the CDC, children and adolescents from ages 6-17 should get around 60 minutes of physical activity each day. In addition to the physical benefits of exercise (such as stronger bones and muscles, and maintaining a healthy weight), physical activity can help manage depression and anxiety, and is even associated with better academic performance. 

Summer camps provide fun, safe opportunities for children to engage in physical activity. To help kids stay mentally and physically healthy, Siegel JCC's summer camp program incorporates activities such as daily swims, sports, and other forms of outdoor recreation on our 32-acre campus. 

Resiliency and Independence

Spending time away from parents provides an important chance for children to develop their sense of identity and self-reliance. Further, engaging in challenging summer camp activities teaches kids perseverance and resilience in a nurturing, supportive atmosphere. Achievements such as mastering a new skill, completing a craft, or succeeding in a game or sports competition can go a long way toward helping kids build self-esteem. 

Time in Nature—and Away from Screens

In the modern age of computers, TVs, and smartphones, convincing your kids to spend time outside can feel like an uphill battle. Sending your kids to summer camp provides a healthy, enjoyable alternative to spending their days in front of a screen. By being outside more, they'll reap the physical and mental benefits of connecting with nature, including reduced stress and anxiety, higher levels of vitamin D, and even better vision. 

A Break for Parents

In addition to being good for kids, summer camps also offer something most parents need: a chance to rest. Enrolling your children in a JCC summer camp not only allows you time to work, run errands, or relax, but also gives you the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your kids are spending their time in a fun, supportive environment run by dedicated staff. Having some time to yourself ensures that when your kids do come home at the end of the day, you're refreshed and ready to be fully present with them. 

Registration for Camp JCC is now open. Our goal is to provide campers with an unforgettable experience through engaging activities and programs while also emphasizing the Jewish values of kehillah (community), kavod (respect), chesed (kindness), and yosher (honesty). Our trained staff are committed to keeping your children safe and happy, and to giving them memories to last for years to come. 

The J is a vibrant, inclusive community center with offerings for members of all ages, backgrounds, and faiths. Members enjoy access to our well-equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and group exercise classes, while children and teens benefit from a variety of programs from preschool and early childhood care to after-school care and summer camp. Whatever you're looking for, we've got something for you. Contact us today to discuss joining with a membership, or consider donating to support our programs!