Scout Summer Camp Benefits

Your son comes home from Scout summer camp more capable and mature than the boy you waved goodbye to a short week ago.

Outside of the normal support structure of his family, away from the solitary distractions of modernity, a Scout must both take care of himself and cooperate with his peers. He does all this in a supportive environment that permits failure without compromising safety. He’ll be challenged to expand his abilities, to accept and offer help, and to function cooperatively in everyday tasks. Here’s some of what your Scout does at Camp: Gets up in the morning on schedule.

Shares a tent with another Scout and keeps it neat and clean.

Shares chores to maintain the campsite.

Shares three meals a day served family style sitting at a table with seven other people. Says grace at meals.

Serves as a waiter for his table setting, serving and cleaning up after meals.

Manages and budgets his money. Sets and follows his own schedule of activities according to his own interests. Is responsible to find his way to and from these activities and manage his time.

Builds character and values by attending campfires, ceremonies and reflecting on his activities. He is complimented by adults and peers. His opinions are valued and heard by other Scouts and adults. Has the opportunity to take on real responsibility and lead others.

Makes a new friend.

Strengthens existing friendships.

Learns new skills.

Tries something he has never tried before.

Learns about the environment.

Challenges his critical thinking skills. Puts what he learns into action.

Works with others to establish and achieve goals. Uses his time to contribute to the goals of others.

Trades T.V., video games and cell phones for actual social interaction.

Finds healthy resolution of conflicts. He benefits from positive peer pressure following the good example of older Scouts and counselors.

Summer camp is challenging, adventurous, it’s full of possibility. Camp is an opportunity to let him go a little – let him stand on his own two feet, it’s an expression of confidence, of trust in his abilities and a test of your parenting.