These days, mobile devices are everywhere. We shop on them, play games on them, chat with our friends using them, navigate using their GPS apps … you get the picture. While these technological marvels offer plenty of convenience and other benefits, it’s difficult to deny that there have been drawbacks as a result—a lack of connection with nature, low social skill development, lower levels of confidence and mental well-being, and more. That’s where overnight summer camps come in. When phones are taken out of the equation, kids can discover what they may be missing out on, if only for a short time. In this blog, we’ll discuss all the benefits of summer camp without phones.
Reconnecting With Nature
When phones are taken out of the equation during summer programs for kids, it’s a lot easier to take in the world around you without distraction. At Camp Tall Timbers, the scenic setting becomes something that begs to be explored, rather than an afterthought that plays second fiddle to a YouTube video. Campers have countless opportunities to discover the world around them through:
- Nature walks and hikes that get their legs moving
- Horseback riding, swimming, and other outdoor games that blend fun with strength and coordination building
- Campfires and stargazing sessions that spark wonder and curiosity of the unknown
Who knew the benefits of summer camp without phones were so extensive?
Building Real Social Skills
Technology has allowed us to stay connected to anyone we want, putting communication at our fingertips. Ironically, however, it’s also proven to be a detriment to social interactions. When everyone is behind a screen, human interaction is less personal and much different from the “real” thing. When these social experiences are in-person, connections can become stronger and real, genuine friendships can be formed. That’s exactly what overnight summer camps seek to encourage.
We offer shared experiences—such as group living and group activities—that require essential face-to-face communication. On top of that, our campers learn teamwork and collaboration through sports and challenges. The result is an amazing boost to empathy and understanding that’s based on more than just likes and shares.
Boosting Confidence and Independence
Summer programs for kids force campers to take in the world around them, which can be a big boon for their confidence. When they can’t rely solely on their phones for entertainment or answers, their problem-solving instincts kick in. They’ll turn to their surrounding environment for their experiences rather than what’s confined to a rectangle in their hands—and the results can be amazing as they gain actual life skills, including:
- Problem solving and decision making as a result of everyday camping activities
- Responsibility and leadership from performing group and individual tasks
- Resilience and confidence from stepping outside of their comfort zones and trying new, exciting things
Improving Mental Well-Being
More than just speculation, there are mountains of evidence supporting a link between mobile phone use and declining mental health—just take a look at this article. In short, many kids develop a dependency on their phones, not knowing how to cope with many parts of life without this “lifesaver” nearby. Social media paints everyone’s life as a wonderful, care-free experience, when it’s actually just a highlight reel that ignores the everyday struggles and challenges everyone faces.
Overnight summer camps can become a respite for these issues that exacerbate FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) as a result of a constant stream of notifications. When those are removed from the picture, it’s easier to see what’s important and realize your potential rather than comparing yourself to the online appearances of others.
Encouraging Creativity and Play
Overnight summer camps offer plenty of opportunities for imaginative play and hands-on experiences. That rings especially true at our phone-free camp, where traditional experiences are brought to life. These activities include:
- Arts and crafts that encourage self-expression
- Storytelling that lights the fire of imagination
- Scavenger hunts and other games based in nature that stoke curiosity in young minds
- Sports activities that encourage collaboration and spark the joy of friendly competition
Rediscover the Real World
The phones will always be there when camp comes to an end. When our campers realize this, they’ll find it increasingly easier to separate from the devices that are seemingly glued to their hands. The interesting part is that many campers who successfully “unplug” realize how much they’ve been missing when all is said and done. Stronger friendships, improved mental health, heightened confidence, and a sense of wonder are all realized once the time is taken to “stop and smell the roses,” so to speak.
We encourage every child to experience overnight summer camps without their phones as a crutch. Who knows what amazing discoveries they’ll make? For a truly wonderful summer camp experience, contact us at Camp Tall Timbers.