Why every kid should experience summer camp

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Summer camp has long been a staple of childhood experiences, but their benefits extend far beyond mere fun and games. In an era where screen time dominates, summer camps provide a much-needed respite.

At the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of summer camps on children’s lives. Summer camps offer a unique environment that fosters growth in multiple areas of a child’s life. We’ve seen how our programs contribute to children’s physical, social, emotional and cognitive development.

When surveying families whose children participated in YMCA summer camps, more than 73% of families reported that their children made new friends during camp, and over 75% reported that their children felt a sense of belonging. Summer camps lead to lifelong friendships that help kids create bonds beyond the classroom.

Our programs encourage physical activity, helping children stay active and healthy during the summer months. Research shows that without access to out-of-school physical and learning activities, kids fall behind academically and gain weight twice as fast during summer than during the school year. 

Summer camps also play a crucial role in boosting children’s self-confidence and independence. According to the American Camp Association, 92% of campers said that camp helped them feel better about themselves. Our programs are designed to challenge children in a supportive environment, allowing them to try new things and overcome fears. The Y also offers day camps, teen camps and specialty camps, giving every kid a chance to connect with youth their own age and explore hobbies that expand their minds and enrich their lives.

Contrary to the notion of summer being a time of academic regression, camp experiences can actually support children’s education. Our programs incorporate elements of STEM, art, and other educational activities, helping to prevent the “summer slide” in academic skills. 

The benefits of summer camp extend far beyond the summer months. Research shows that three years after attending summer camp, children still exhibit an increased willingness to try new things. This long-term impact is a testament to the powerful experiences we provide at the YMCA.

Summer camps are more than just a way to keep children occupied during school breaks; they are invaluable experiences that contribute significantly to a child’s personal growth and development. As we continue to evolve our programs at the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg, we remain committed to providing these life-changing experiences to as many children as possible. By investing in summer camp experiences, we’re not just giving children a fun summer – we’re equipping them with skills, confidence and memories that will serve them well throughout their lives.

If you have school-aged children, you can sign up for summer camps on our website at stpeteymca.org/childcare/summer-camp. 

Ashley Carter is the Association Summer Camp Director at YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg.

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