Displaying items by tag: sleepaway summer camp

 Parents Can Ruin Their Child's Summer: A Camp Director's Perspective

As the director of Swift Nature Camp for nearly three decades, I've witnessed firsthand the joy and transformation that summer camp can bring to children's lives. However, I've also seen how well-meaning parents can inadvertently undermine their child's summer experience by making the wrong camp choices. Here are some common mistakes parents inavoidably make when selecting a summer camp:

1. Ignoring Their Child's Interests: Parents often choose a residential summer camp based on their own preferences or what they think their child should enjoy, rather than considering their child's interests and passions. This can lead to a lack of enthusiasm and engagement from the child.

2. Overlooking Camp Values: Some parents prioritize factors like convenience or cost over the camp's values and philosophy. However, a mismatch between the camp's values and the family's values can result in a dissonant experience for the child. This can often result in children returning home with a personality that is less than you would like

3. Focusing Solely on Facilities: While state-of-the-art facilities may be impressive, they do not necessarily guarantee a quality camp experience. Parents should look beyond the amenities and consider factors such as the quality of staff, programming, and the camp's approach to child development.

4. Disregarding Feedback: Parents may dismiss negative reviews or feedback about a camp, assuming it won't apply to their child's experience. However, it's essential to heed warnings from other families and trust their insights.

5. Overparenting: Hovering or micromanaging from afar can hinder a child's ability to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience and develop independence. It's essential for parents to trust the camp staff and allow their child the space to grow.

6. Not Reading: Parents for some reason feel camp has 2 requirments Paying and Packing. These are the least important aspects of picking a camp. Read everything about the camp you are selecting.

How Swift Nature Camp Responds To The Above Issues::

1. **Ignoring Their Child's Interests:** At Swift Nature Camp, we understand the importance of catering to each child's unique interests and passions. Our diverse range of nearly 100 activities, including outdoor adventures, arts and crafts and Lego, ensures that every camper finds something they love. This is why on our website, we have videos specifically for the campers to get a feel about SNC. We believe, by offering daily choices of activities,  we empower campers to explore their interests and discover new talents.

2. **Overlooking Camp Values:** Our camp's values are at the heart of everything we do. From fostering a love and respect for nature to promoting teamwork and inclusivity, our program is designed to align with the values of families who prioritize character development and personal growth. By immersing campers in an environment that reflects old fashioned values, we create a cohesive and supportive community where every child feels valued and understood. We belive Kindness matters at SNC.

3. **Focusing Solely on Facilities:** While our facilities are well-maintained and provide a comfortable setting for campers, it's the people and programs that truly set us apart. Our dedicated staff members are carefully selected for their expertise, enthusiasm, and commitment to nurturing each child's potential. From trained counselors to experienced activity leaders, our SNC team ensures that every aspect of the camp experience is enriching and rewarding. We have learned over the years campers first come to camp for the activities and the environment, but they return for how camp makes them feel.

4. **Disregarding Feedback:** At Swift Nature Camp, we value feedback from campers and families alike. We actively seek input through surveys, parent meetings, and ongoing communication channels to continuously improve our program and address any concerns. By listening to the needs and preferences of our community, we can adapt and evolve to better serve our campers and families. Maybe that is why we have been doing camp for nearly 30 years.

5. **Overparenting:** We recognize the importance of fostering independence and self-reliance in our campers. That's why we encourage parents to trust our experienced staff and allow their child the freedom to explore and grow in a safe and supportive environment. Our structured yet flexible program provides opportunities for campers to make choices, take risks, and learn from their experiences, helping them develop confidence and resilience that will serve them well beyond their time at camp.

6.**Not Reading:** At Swift anture Camp our website is loaded with information. We want to work with your families for years and want to be part of your childs upbringing. The best way we feel to do this is to inform you as much as possible. Weather it be Zoom meeting for new families or in person get togethers before camp starts. Join the SNC Family.

Lastly, selecting the right summer camp requires thoughtful consideration and prioritizing the child's needs and interests above all else. By avoiding these common pitfalls, parents can ensure their child has a positive and enriching summer camp experience. Trust me, as someone who has dedicated their life to creating memorable camp experiences, making the right choice can make all the difference in your child's summer.

Plese give me a call and we can talk more about camp and your child.

Lonnie
630-654-8036
www.SNC.Camp

7 Benefits of Sending a Girl to an Overnight Summer Camp with Animals

Choosing the right summer camp for your child can be a daunting task. However, if you're considering an overnight summer camp with animals for your daughter, you're providing her with an extraordinary opportunity for growth, learning, and fun. These camps offer a unique experience that combines traditional camp activities with the joy of interacting with animals. In this article, we will explore seven incredible benefits of sending a girl to an overnight summer camp with animals.

1. Building Empathy and Compassion:
   Interacting with animals can foster empathy and compassion in children. By caring for animals, girls learn about the needs and emotions of different creatures. This experience helps develop their ability to understand and connect with others on a deeper level, promoting a sense of kindness and empathy that extends beyond the camp environment.

2. Enhancing Responsibility and Independence:
   At an overnight summer camp with animals, girls have the opportunity to take on responsibilities related to animal care. They learn to feed, groom, and provide basic healthcare for animals, fostering a sense of responsibility and independence. These newfound skills can positively impact their self-esteem and confidence, as they witness their ability to contribute to the well-being of another living being.

3. Promoting Nature Appreciation:
   In today's technology-driven world, many children are detached from nature. However, overnight summer camps with animals reconnect girls with the natural world. Through interactions with animals at our camp zoo , they gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment, fostering a sense of stewardship towards nature that can extend far beyond their camp experience.

4. Developing Communication and Social Skills:
   Animal interactions provide a unique platform for developing communication and social skills. At camp, girls engage in activities such as grooming, training, and understanding animal behavior. These experiences teach them non-verbal cues, active listening, and effective communication, skills that are transferable to their interactions with peers and adults.

5. Encouraging Physical Activity and Outdoor Exploration:
   Outdoor activities are an integral part of summer camps with animals. Girls engage in various physical activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and nature walks. These experiences not only promote physical fitness but also encourage girls to explore the outdoors, fostering a sense of adventure and an appreciation for an active lifestyle.

6. Boosting Confidence and Resilience:
   Overnight summer camps with animals offer a safe and supportive environment for girls to step out of their comfort zones. By taking on new challenges, such as overcoming fears of certain animals or mastering a new skill, girls build resilience and confidence in their abilities. These experiences can have a lasting impact, empowering girls to tackle future challenges with resilience and determination.

7. Creating Lifelong Memories and Friendships:
   The shared experiences and unique bond formed during overnight summer camps with animals create lasting memories and friendships. Girls connect with like-minded peers who share their love for animals, fostering lifelong friendships built on shared passions. These connections provide a supportive network and an opportunity for personal growth beyond the camp's duration.

Sending a girl to an overnight summer camp with animals can be a transformative experience, limited beds remain for 2023. From developing empathy and compassion to building resilience and confidence, the benefits are extensive. By providing a nurturing environment that combines animal interactions with traditional camp activities, these camps offer a unique opportunity for growth, learning, and friendship. Invest in your daughter's future by considering an overnight summer camp with animals, and witness her embark on a journey of self-discovery and lifelong memories. Lonnie & Jeff Lorenz are happy to talk to you more about the sleepaway camp experience, just give a call 715-466-5666

Limited Availability at Sleepaway  Camp

With summer just around the corner, many parents and children are eagerly planning their activities. If you've been considering sending your child to an overnight summer camp but have hesitated, don't worry—it's not too late! In fact, some camps still have limited availability, offering a fantastic opportunity for your child to have a memorable summer experience. One such camp is Swift Nature Camp, which still has beds available for girls. 

1. While some summer camps may have reached capacity, others still have openings for late applicants. Don't be disheartened if you haven't made plans yet—there are still opportunities for your child to enjoy an enriching summer at camp.  When selecting a summer camp, it's important to not just select a camp because they have availability. Do your due diligence and check reviews and references. This will provide valuable insights into the experiences of other campers and their families. Swift Nature Camp has a strong reputation and consistently receives positive feedback from both campers and parents. Their dedication to fostering personal growth, creating a nurturing environment, and providing a wide range of engaging activities has made them a trusted choice for families.

2. Benefits of Overnight Summer Camp are endless but here are some that parents mention over and over.Camps provide a safe and supportive space for children to develop independence and self-confidence. Away from home, campers learn to navigate new experiences, make decisions, and build resilience, all while being surrounded by caring counselors and fellow campers. Swift Nature Camp, as the name suggests, offers a unique opportunity for children to connect with nature. Engaging in outdoor activities, exploring the wilderness, and learning about the environment fosters an appreciation for the natural world and encourages an active and healthy lifestyle.Overnight summer camps bring together children from diverse backgrounds and provide an environment for forming lasting friendships. The bonds formed during camp can often extend beyond the summer, creating a network of support and friendship that lasts for years to come. Camps like Swift Nature Camp offer a wide range of activities that cater to various interests. Whether it's arts and crafts, sports, hiking, or team-building exercises, these activities encourage personal growth, skill development, and exploration of new hobbies and interests.

Conclusion: Enrolling your child in an overnight summer camp, even at this stage, can be a fantastic decision. Limited availability at camps like Swift Nature Camp presents a unique opportunity for your child to have an unforgettable summer filled with personal growth, nature exploration, and lifelong friendships. Take the time to review your options, check reviews and references, and make an informed decision that aligns with your child's interests and values. Remember, it's not too late to give your child the gift of a summer camp experience they'll cherish for years to come.

Swift Nature Camp Recognized

America's Best Summer Camps 2023 by Newsweek Magazine

Summer camps are an iconic American tradition. According to the American Camp Association (ACA), approximately 20 million kids go to summer camp each year—and for good reason. Camps can offer children a unique opportunity to explore new interests, make lasting friendships, and gain independence in a fun and supportive environment.

With over 12,000 summer camps across the United States, it can be daunting for parents to search for, vet and select the best camp for their kids. Choosing a summer program requires careful consideration of a camper's interests and personality. By doing your research and asking the right questions, you can find a summer camp that provides a fun, safe and rewarding experience for your child.

To that end, Newsweek the 500 best summer camps in the U.S. "America's Best Summer Camps 2023" recognizes the top summer camps in the United States, categorized by state, based on social media reviews and a comprehensive survey of 15,000 parents. The list is composed of approximately two-thirds non-profit and one-third for-profit camps; 483 have earned ACA accreditation.

Swift Nature Camp is a summer camp located in Wisconsin, USA, that focuses on providing children with opportunities to learn about nature, science, and the environment. It has been recognized as one of the best summer camps in the country by Newsweek magazine.

There are several reasons why Swift Nature Camp may have received this recognition. Firstly, the camp has a strong focus on providing educational and engaging activities for children. Campers are encouraged to explore nature and participate in activities such as hiking, bird watching, and animal tracking. The camp also has a science and nature center where campers can learn about various topics related to the environment.

Secondly, the camp has a strong sense of community and encourages campers to develop social skills and make new friends. The camp is intentionally designed to be a smaller size to encourage a sense of community, and the staff works to create a supportive and inclusive environment.

Finally, the camp has a strong reputation for safety and staff training. Swift Nature Camp has been accredited by the American Camp Association, which means it meets high standards for health, safety, and program quality. The Camp Directors Lonnie & Jeff have been runnng camp for 28 years and insure the staff also undergoes extensive training to to be sure they are equipped to handle a wide range of camper situations.

Overall, Swift Nature Camp's focus on education, community, and safety may have contributed to its recognition as one of the best summer camps in the country by Newsweek magazine. Learn More about their exclusive 1st timer camp

Visit https://www.newsweek.com/rankings/americas-best-summer-camps-2023 to see all the best camps.

Illinois summer camps that offer animal-related activities provide children with unique opportunities to learn about and connect with the natural world. One such camp is Swift Nature Camp, which offers a variety of animal-focused activities.

Some advantages of attending Swift Nature Camp include:

1. Animal Interaction: The camp offers children the opportunity to interact with animals in a safe and supervised environment. This can help children develop a love for animals and a sense of responsibility towards their care.

2. Hands-on Learning: The camp's activities allow children to learn about the animals through hands-on experiences. They can observe their behavior, feed them, and learn about their habitats and needs.

3. Outdoor Activities: In addition to animal-focused activities, the camp also offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and swimming. This provides children with an opportunity to enjoy the natural world and develop an appreciation for it.

4. Social Skills: Attending a summer camp like Swift Nature Camp allows children to develop social skills by interacting with their peers in a fun and supportive environment.

5. Lifelong Memories: Many children who attend summer camps like Swift Nature Camp create lifelong memories and friendships. These experiences can help shape their interests and passions for years to come.

Overall, attending a summer camp with animals like Swift Nature Camp can be a fun and educational experience for children. It allows them to learn about the natural world, develop social skills, and create lasting memories all in a fun, supportive environment..

Swift Nature Camp's Discovery Camp is a summer program designed for children who are interested in exploring the natural world and learning about animals. Located in Wisconsin, this camp offers a range of outdoor activities and hands-on experiences that allow children to interact with animals in a safe and supervised environment. The Discovery Camp program is open to children between the ages of 6 and 12, and it focuses on teaching them about nature through fun and engaging activities such as hiking, canoeing, swimming, and nature art. Through these activities, children can develop a love for animals and a deeper understanding of the natural world, all while making new friends and creating lasting memories. With experienced counselors and a supportive community, Swift Nature Camp's Discovery Camp is a great way for children to learn, grow, and have fun during the summer months.

Please give us a call at 630-654-8036

Lonnie Lorenz
Swift Nature Camp
SNC.Camp
Wisconsin / Illinois

Swift Nature Camp is an overnight summer camp that focuses on nature and outdoor activities, and we have seen firsthand the power of shared interests in creating lasting friendships. When children come to our camp, they are surrounded by others who share their love of nature and the outdoors. This common ground is a powerful force in bringing kids together and fostering connections that can last a lifetime.

At Swift Nature Camp, we offer a wide range of activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, and archery. These activities appeal to a variety of interests, and we encourage our campers to explore and try new things. When children participate in these activities with their fellow campers, they not only build new skills but also form connections with others who share their passion.

One of the great things about shared interests is that they can help children feel like they belong. When children come to Swift Nature Camp, they become part of a community of nature lovers. They can find acceptance and support from others who share their interests, which can be especially important for kids who may not have found that kind of community at home.

Shared interests at overnight summer camps can also be a source of inspiration and motivation. When children see their fellow campers achieving their goals and improving their skills, it can motivate them to work harder and strive for their own success. This can lead to a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence that can carry over into other areas of their lives.

Another great thing about shared interests is that they provide a natural conversation starter. When children meet someone new at camp, they can easily start a conversation about their favorite activity or hobby. This can help break the ice and make it easier for kids to form friendships with their fellow campers.

Finally, shared interests can make activities more enjoyable and exciting. When children are doing something they love with their friends, they are more likely to have fun and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it's catching their first fish or reaching the top of a mountain, the sense of accomplishment and camaraderie that comes from shared interests can be truly unforgettable.

In conclusion, shared interests are a powerful force in creating friendships that last a lifetime. At Swift Nature Camp, we have seen how a shared love of nature and the outdoors can bring children together and foster connections that endure beyond the summer months. If you're considering sending your child to a summer camp, we encourage you to think about the power of shared interests in creating a memorable and rewarding experience.

Summer camp is an excellent opportunity for kids to develop social skills and long-lasting friendships. For neurodivergent children, it can provide a clean social slate and a chance to connect with others who share similar experiences. In a recent survey, 62% of caregivers cited "making and spending time with friends" as a top priority for their child's summer plans.

Parents of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may be concerned about how their child's social skills may be affected at camp. It is essential to communicate with the camp about your child's strengths and weaknesses and how they may present at camp. The camp staff should also be educated about ADHD, and parents can help by providing resources such as webinars that offer an overview of common social challenges facing children and teens with ADHD.

If your child is hesitant to participate in activities, it's crucial to communicate your expectations with the camp. Let them know that you expect counselors to engage your child if they are sitting alone, wandering, or not participating. It's important to remember that the camp experience is all about learning to be part of a group. If your child is allowed to sit out of activities all day, they won't be able to participate fully in the camp experience.

Children with ADHD may tend to gravitate towards younger peers or adults. It's crucial to communicate this to the camp and ask for their assistance in helping your child interact with same-age peers. Staff can help your child enter a conversation or play situation with peers.

Parents may also wonder if it's a good idea to send their child to camp with a friend or sibling. There is no right or wrong answer, and it's up to the parent to decide what is best for their child. However, it's worth noting that some children with ADHD can become protective and territorial, which may prevent them from making new friends.

If the camp calls to say that your child isn't participating in bunk/cabin chores, it's essential to ask for more information. It's possible that your child is trying to perform the chores but struggling with the sequence. Communicate to the camp that your child may need additional support to complete chores. Parents can also ask the camp about the chores and independent skills they expect from campers to prepare their child before camp starts.

Before sending a child with ADHD to camp, it's crucial to help them emotionally and mentally prepare for camp. Many children with ADHD are visual learners, so it's helpful to book a tour of the camp or visit the camp's website to look at pictures of the physical layout and staff. It's also essential to talk with your child about the social issues that may occur at camp and prepare them for potential conflicts.

Lastly, it's essential not to "rescue" your child from camp if they feel uncomfortable. While it's normal for children to shy away from new experiences, allowing them to escape a non-threatening situation will only set them up for failure. Parents should communicate their confidence in their child's ability to handle the situation and provide them with the necessary support to navigate new social situations.

Lastly,, summer camp is an excellent opportunity for children to develop social skills and make long-lasting friendships. For children with ADHD, it can provide a fresh start and a chance to connect with others who share similar experiences. However, it's crucial for parents to communicate with the camp about their child's strengths and weaknesses, mentally prepare their child for camp, and avoid rescuing their child from non-threatening situations. With the right support and preparation, summer camp can be a life-changing experience for children with ADHD. At Swift Nature Camp we do accept children that have ADHD depending on degree and have a RN on site to provide medication.

See whats new in 2023 from camp

For many parents, sending their children to residential summer camp is an important part of their child's development and growth. While some may view camp as a mere vacation or break from the daily routine, the benefits of overnight camp go much deeper.

First and foremost, overnight residential camps provides a unique opportunity for children to gain independence and responsibility. Away from the comfort and structure of home, campers are forced to navigate new situations and make decisions on their own. This teaches valuable life skills such as problem-solving, time management, and decision-making.

Additionally, overnight camp allows children to form new friendships and build a sense of community. In a world where children are often isolated by technology, camp provides a chance for face-to-face social interaction and connection with others. This can lead to increased self-esteem and confidence, as well as a support network for children to lean on during difficult times.

Furthermore, overnight camp offers a wide range of activities and experiences that are often not available in a child's daily life. From outdoor adventures such as hiking and rock climbing, to artistic and creative pursuits such as painting and music, camp provides a chance for children to explore new interests and passions. This can lead to increased self-discovery and a greater sense of self-worth.

Overnight camp also provides a unique opportunity for children to disconnect from the distractions of technology and fully immerse themselves in the present moment. Without the constant pull of screens and social media, campers are free to focus on their surroundings and the activities at hand. This can lead to increased mindfulness and an appreciation for the natural world.

Finally, overnight camp provides a chance for children to learn important values such as teamwork, respect, and perseverance. Through group activities and challenges, campers are taught the importance of working together and supporting one another. These lessons can have a lasting impact on a child's character and future success.

Overall, the benefits of overnight camp are numerous and varied. From building independence and forming new friendships, to exploring new interests and learning important values, overnight camp offers a unique and valuable experience for children. For many parents, sending their children to camp is an investment in their child's future and well-being. It is always best to check with the camp directors that they offer what your family is looking for in your childe development. At Swift Nature Camp Lonnie & Jeff welcome your phone call 630-654-8036

Recently, we came accross the below article in the Washington Post. We found it extremely informative because it highlights the what and the why parents send their children to overnight summer camp. Something we have been wondering for years, because doing so as a parent is counter intuitive. You send your children into the woods to live with a bunch of folks they do not know while your children are directly supervised by college students, it makes no sense. Yet, after one summer parents get it. They see the benefits, children mature and gain independent in ways that can only happen away from home. If you are new to summer camp or a returning parent please read and think how camp this summer, camp will have a positive effect your child.

I send my kids to sleep-away camp to give them a competitive advantage in life

By Laura Clydesdale

May 9, 2016

“Do you even like your children?” the woman I had just met asked me.

The audacity of the question took my breath away. I had been chatting with her, explaining that my kids go to sleep-away camp for two months every year.

I quickly realized two things at once: She was obnoxious, and she actually didn’t care if I missed my kids during the summer. She was talking about something else.

I didn’t have to tell her the reason I “send them away” for most of the summer is because I like them. They adore camp, and it’s actually harder on me than it is on them. I often tell people that the first year they were both gone, it felt like I had lost an arm. I wandered around the house from room to room experiencing phantom limb pain.

Now, instead of being offended, I got excited.

I was going to be able to tell her something that my husband and I rarely get to explain: We do it because we truly think it will help our kids be successful in life. With under-employment and a stagnating labor market looming in their future, an all-around, sleep-away summer camp is one of the best competitive advantages we can give our children.

Huh?

Surely, college admissions officers aren’t going to be impressed with killer friendship bracelets or knowing all the words to the never-ending camp song “Charlie on the M.T.A.” Who cares if they can pitch a tent or build a fire?

Indeed, every summer my kids “miss out” on the specialized, résumé-building summers that their peers have. Their friends go to one-sport summer camps and take summer school to skip ahead in math. Older peers go to SAT/ACT prep classes. One kid worked in his dad’s business as an intern, while another enrolled in a summer program that helped him write all his college essays.

Many (this woman included) would say that I’m doing my children a serious disservice by choosing a quaint and out-of-date ideal instead. There are online “Ivy League Coaches” that might say we are making a terrible mistake.

We don’t think this is a mistake at all. It might not be something to put on the college application (unless my child eventually becomes a counselor), but that isn’t the goal for us.

Our goal is bigger.

We are consciously opting out of the things-to-put-on-the-college-application arms race, and instead betting on three huge benefits of summer camp, which we believe will give them a true competitive advantage — in life:

1. Building creativity.

2. Developing broadly as a human being.

3. Not-living-in-my-basement-as-an-adult independence.

MIT’s Erik Brynjolfsson says, in his book “The Second Machine Age,” that we have reached a pivotal moment where technology is replacing skills and people at an accelerated pace. He argues that creativity and innovation are becoming competitive advantages in the race against artificial intelligence, because creativity is something a machine has a hard time replicating.

The problem is that creativity seems so intangible.

Steve Jobs once said, “Creativity is just connecting things.” He believed that people invent when they connect the dots between the experiences they’ve had. To do this, he argued that we need to have more experiences and spend more time thinking about those experiences.

Indeed. According to Adam Grant’s book “Originals: How Non-Conformists Move the World,” researchers at Michigan State University found that to receive the Nobel Prize, you need deep study in your field and those broad experiences Jobs was talking about. They studied the winning scientists from 1901 through 2005 and compared them with typical scientists living at the same time. Grant writes that the Nobel Prize winners were:

* Two times more likely to  play an instrument, compose or conduct.

* Seven times more likely to draw, paint or sculpt.

* Seven-and-a-half times more likely to do woodwork or be a mechanic, electrician or glassblower.

* Twelve times more likely to write poetry, plays, novels or short stories.

* And 22 times more likely to be an amateur actor, dancer or magician.

You read that right. Magician.

It’s not just that this kind of original thinker actively seeks out creative pursuits. These original experiences provide a new way of looking at the world, which helped the prize-winners think differently in their day jobs.

The beauty of summer camp is that not only do kids get to do all sorts of crazy new things, they also get to do it in nature, which lends its own creative boost.

Most importantly, my kids have such intensely packed schedules full of sports, music, art classes, community service and technological stimulation throughout the school year that it makes finding these all-important quiet mental spaces more difficult.

Summers provide a much-needed opportunity for my children to unplug, achieve focus and develop those creative thought processes and connections.

Okay, okay. Creativity might be a compelling tool to beat out that neighbor girl applying to the same college, but what about this “developing broadly as a human being” stuff?

I didn’t come up with that phrase. Harvard did.

William Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions at Harvard, Marilyn McGrath, director of admissions at Harvard and Charles Ducey, with Harvard’s graduate school of education, penned a compelling letter to parents. It practically begs and pleads with them to reevaluate the summer extracurriculars race and to “bring summer back,” with an “old-fashioned summer job” perhaps, or simply time to “gather strength for the school year ahead.”

Fitzsimmons writes, “What can be negative is when people lose sight of the fact that it’s important to develop broadly as a human being, as opposed to being an achievement machine. In the end, people will do much better reflecting, perhaps through some down time, in the summer.”

In terms of “developing broadly as a human being,” summer camp can provide an impressive list of life skills.

Studies over the past decade have shown outdoor programs stimulate the development of interpersonal competencies, enhance leadership skills and have positive effects on adolescents’ sense of empowerment, self-control, independence, self-understanding, assertiveness, decision-making skills, self-esteem, leadership, academics, personality and interpersonal relations.

Now for the cherry on top: Independence.

Michael Thompson, the author of “Homesick and Happy,” has written, “… there are things that, as a parent, you cannot do for your children, as much as you might wish to. You cannot make them happy (if you try too hard they become whiners); you cannot give them self-esteem and confidence (those come from their own accomplishments); you cannot pick friends for them and micro-manage their social lives, and finally you cannot give them independence. The only way children can grow into independence is to have their parents open the door and let them walk out. That’s what makes camp such a life-changing experience for children.”

So, yes, Ms. Tiger Mom, I am letting my children walk out the door and make useless lanyards for two months.

They might not have anything “constructive” to place on their college application, but they will reflect, unwind, think and laugh. They will explore, perform skits they wrote themselves and make those endless friendship bracelets to tie onto the wrists of lifelong friends.

The result will be that when they come back through our door, we’re pretty sure that, in addition to having gobs of creativity and independence, they’ll be more comfortable with who they are as people.

And just maybe they’ll even bring back a few magic tricks.

Laura Clydesdale lives in Berkeley, Calif., with her husband and children. She blogs at lauraclydesdale.com. Follow her on Twitter @l_clydesdale.