Imagination Runs Free at Summer Camp

Summer camp brings to mind long days spent running wild and free in an outdoor environment. While it is true that kids spend a lot of their time engaged in physical activity, it is also important to know that summer camp programs are designed to spark a child’s imagination. In addition to the traditional camp crafts, kids are encouraged to develop their creative abilities through activities that fit a variety of interests.

Importance of Imaginative Play

Today’s kids are inundated with experiences that limit their ability to use their imaginations. For example, schools are often so focused on teaching academics that they cut programs such as drama and art. Unfortunately, this puts kids at a disadvantage because an imagination is essential for developing the creative skills that lead to success in adulthood. Imaginative play opens up doors for them to learn valuable lessons that build upon critical skills such as problem solving and it also serves as an outlet for relieving stress that frees kids’ minds so that they can focus on developing their talents.

How Camp Supports Creativity

Summer camp programs tend to use a fairly strict schedule to keep kids busy every minute of the day. However, there are blocks of time built into that schedule where kids are able to let their imaginations run wild. Special programs, such as dance and drama, are provided as options for children to fill certain blocks of time. Camp counselors and other staff members use these programs to encourage kids to stretch their imaginations as they participate in creative play. During camp activities, counselors and other members of the staff reinforce the development of imagination by offering kids positive encouragement for their successes. Performing for other campers and their families on special days reaffirms the importance of developing a kid’s imagination. Free periods are also built into camp schedules that allow them a chance to try out new activities in the interest of building their imagination.

Imagination-Building Activities

While at camp, kids still enjoy traditional summer camp activities such as macramé and jewelry-making. Yet, there are some new activities that have been added to the mix. For example, Lego robotics mixes science with creativity so that kids can make moving sculptures using their own imaginations. Puppetry and balloon animal classes give kids with an interest in volunteering a way to put their imaginations to good use by performing for others. Open-ended art, such as pottery and painting, also allows kids the chance to create a physical piece that reflects their creativity. It is also important to note that many of the best chances for kids to build their imaginations are spontaneous. Telling stories around the campfire, cloud watching and stargazing all have the potential to spark a kid’s imagination.

When a kid is encouraged to let their imagination run free, the world opens up with tremendous possibilities. Not only will imaginative play offer immediate enjoyment but it also helps kids build skills with long-lasting benefits. Whether they’re making up camp songs with friends or focusing on creating a beautiful piece of art for mom and dad, summer camp is the place to fully unleash their imagination.

Let your kids experience the art and creativity activities at Maplewood Summer Day Camp. Experienced staff will keep your child both safe and busy with arts and crafts, games, water sports, gymnastics and more. Visit the site at http://maplewoodyearround.com/summer-camp/summer-camp-activities/    to see the fun your child will have at Maplewood Summer Day Camp.

Questions to Consider In Selecting a Summer Day Camp

Are you considering on enrolling your child to a summer day camp? There are many factors to consider when choosing the ideal camp for your kids. Essentially, word of mouth and recommendations are the best meaningful resources when looking for a camp for your children. The camp’s reputation is another thing to consider. But when all factors are taken into account, your kids’ interest should be the paramount consideration when choosing a summertime campsite.

Summer day camps offer more than just hiking, trekking, or canoeing. They provide a good starting point for life-long friendships, awesome experiences, fun-filled activities, and a lifetime’s worth of joyful memories. Wouldn’t you want that for your kids? Ask your kids: would they want to experience that kind of fun and laughter? It’s highly probable that they would love to do that.

One of the most important questions to raise when choosing the ideal summertime campsite for your kids is what are its advantages or benefits?

Day camp during summer is a good starting point for teaching kids the important life lessons. The experience imparts them with wisdom that they can use for the rest of their lives. With these camps, they get to meet other people, they get to roam and play around, and more importantly, they become disconnected from their computer games or TV. It is a great environment where they can swap stories, engage in conversation, participate in games, and just enjoy with other people’s company. It’s fun in a natural setting.

Perhaps the biggest factor to the delight of these kids is that these camps are usually a no-parent zone. Imagine the freedom they will enjoy for the next couple of days or weeks that they are in these camps.

But being away from the parents is not a bad thing. In fact, it can be a wonderful learning experience for them. When these kids are separate from their homes, they tend to become more independent and resilient. They learn how to do things on their own. And this is where summer camp administrators step in; they can guide and supervise these kids as they do about their way independently in these campsites.

If you or your kids have some concerns or apprehensions regarding life in these camps, that is normal. But for your peace of mind and comfort, it is highly recommended that you speak with the camp administrators. Perhaps you have some questions in mind that you would like to raise. Here are some of the commonly raised questions when selecting a summertime day camp for kids:

Camp Schedule

• What dates to summer camp start and end?
• When is the closing date for submission of applications for prospective attendees?
• Is there a flexible schedule available?

Camp Fees

• How much does it usually cost to attend a summer day camp?
• What does the tuition fee include? Does it cover for meals, transportation, etc.?
• What is the manner of payment?
• Are scholarships available?
• Will the camp refund in case the child is not able to attend the camp?

Camp Safety and Health Concerns

• Are there enough camp personnel to watch over the kids?
• Are counselors trained in CPR or first-aid?
• Can the camp handle emergencies?

Camp Personnel and Staff

• What is the ratio between the camping kids and the staff?
• Does the camp administrators perform background check on all its personnel and staff?

Other Questions

• Will adequate housing, bedding, and food be provided?
• Is there adequate assistance available for kids with special medical needs?

Let your kids enjoy the experience of summer day camp at Maplewood Summer Day Camp. Experienced staff will keep your child both safe and busy with arts and crafts, games, water sports, gymnastics and more. Visit the site at http://www.maplewoodyearround.com to see the fun your child will have at Maplewood Summer Day Camp.

Importance of Play Among Children

Play's importance is so great to youngsters that it has sometimes been called the work of childhood. Throughout history, kids have spent many happy - and actually very productive - hours at this seemingly insignificant pass time. Whether inventing imaginary scenarios with friends and siblings, taking pretend journeys with parents, playing tag at summer day camp or racing free in the neighborhood, play allows kids to develop in an incredible variety of ways. Kids at day camp have an amazing opportunity to spend happy hours in the sunshine playing with friends while also giving their creativity, health and social skills a big boost. Read more