How Summer Camp Prevents Learning Loss and Boosts Confidence

Did you know that most students lose two months of math skills every summer, and low-income children typically lose another two to three months of reading skills? That’s according to the National Summer Learning Association, which has studied summer’s impact on education.

Summer can be a time when learning slows down because kids aren’t in school every day.

Here’s how camp can help children and teens keep up the skills they need for school during summer break.

Hands-on learning

At camp, kids learn by doing. Activities like STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math), arts and crafts, cooking, archery, and more help them explore new ideas. They practice following directions and use problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Taking healthy risks

Camp encourages kids to try new things and discover what they’re good at and what they enjoy. This confidence can carry into the new school year. Maybe there’s a club or sport they’ve been thinking about joining. Camp can give them the extra push they need to go for it.

Building confidence

Campers can feel proud of themselves when they learn a new skill or are recognized by peers or counselors. Camp can help kids become more comfortable socializing with other kids and adults. Whether it’s day or overnight, camp can also give them the confidence to be on their own for an extended time, just like school does. When they’re more confident, kids will be motivated to use their abilities to reach their goals.

Teamwork

At camp, kids work together to solve problems and face challenges, whether they’re playing sports, hiking, or putting on a show. They learn good sportsmanship, cooperation, and how to treat others with kindness.

Less screen time

The more time kids spend in front of screens, the less time they have to be active, use their minds, and practice what they learned in school. Too much screen time can have a negative effect on a child’s school performance and their ability to interact with other people. Camp gets kids away from the TVs, phones, and tablets and gets them involved in activities that boost knowledge and social skills.

Healthy eating, too

Being out of school can also be hard for kids who rely on school for healthy breakfasts and lunches. Organizations like the YMCA help by offering nutritious meals and snacks through day and overnight camps.

The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges summer camps are designed to be fun and stimulating to prevent summer learning loss. Because the Y is for all, financial assistance is available to qualifying families and individuals who’d like to be part of camp.