Roblox & Minecraft: What Parents Should Know

A message from the Director of Swift Nature Camp

I want to start by being clear — I am not a technology expert. I am a camp director, and my role has always been to help keep kids safe, supported, and growing while they are in our care.

At Swift Nature Camp, we work hard to create a safe environment during the summer. But as parents and caregivers, we all know that our responsibility to protect children doesn’t stop at camp or school. It extends into everyday life — offline and online.

That’s why I wanted to share some important information about Roblox and Minecraft, based on what child safety and digital wellness experts recommend 
Why This Matters

Roblox and Minecraft are often described as “games,” but experts remind us that they are also online social spaces. Children can interact, chat, and connect with people they don’t know — sometimes without fully understanding the risks.

Experts consistently say that awareness, supervision, and conversation are key to keeping kids safe in these environments.

How Minecraft and Roblox Are Different

While these platforms are often mentioned together, experts point out that they function very differently.

Minecraft

• Focuses on creativity and building

• Often played solo or with known friends

• Easier for parents to manage and supervise

• Social interaction is usually limited and intentional

Many experts view Minecraft as lower risk, especially when children play in private or family-managed worlds.

Roblox

• Functions as a large online social platform

• Includes millions of user-created games

• Allows in-game chat with people children may not know

• Moderation varies depending on the game

Experts note that Roblox requires more active parental involvement, particularly for younger children

Why Parental Controls Alone Aren’t Enough

Experts are clear that parental controls and filters are helpful tools — but they are not a complete solution.

According to child safety specialists:

• Filters can reduce exposure but won’t catch everything

• Children may find ways around settings as they grow

• No automated system replaces adult involvement

Just as we rely on multiple layers of supervision at camp, experts recommend a layered approach to online safety at home

What Experts Recommend Parents Do

Child development and online safety experts consistently suggest the following steps:

• Learn how the platforms your child uses actually work

• Keep gaming devices in shared family spaces

• Limit or disable chat features when appropriate

• Talk regularly with your child about what they see and experience

• Teach children never to share personal information

• Encourage kids to come to you if something feels uncomfortable

Experts emphasize that ongoing conversation is more effective than strict rules alone.

A Camp Perspective

At camp, we help children practice skills that last beyond the summer — communication, trust, and decision-making. Those same skills matter online.

While I don’t claim to be an expert in digital platforms, I do believe strongly in sharing information that helps families make thoughtful choices.

Keeping kids safe is something we do together, and it matters everywhere — in the woods, at home, and online.

— Lonnie
Director, Swift Nature Camp 

Dear Parents,

For more than 30 years, we’ve had the privilege of working with children and families at Swift Nature Camp. SNC doesn’t advertise itself as a leadership camp by name, yet leadership emerges daily through the experiences, challenges, and relationships children build here. Over those decades, one question has remained constant—even as the world around us has changed:

How do we help children grow into confident, capable adults who can lead their own lives?

Parents want children who can:

• Handle pressure

• Make good decisions

• Advocate for themselves

• Communicate through challenges

• Trust themselves when things don’t go perfectly

These are often described as leadership skills. And while the word leadership is everywhere today, its true meaning can feel vague or overused.

At camp, we see something very different.

Leadership Isn’t Abstract — The Path Is Clear

Leadership doesn’t come from lectures or titles. It’s built through experience. Real leadership develops when children are given opportunities to:

• Face manageable adversity

• Take initiative, even when it feels uncomfortable

• Speak up for themselves

• Navigate conflict with guidance

• Make choices — and learn from the outcome

• Experience failure safely, with support

At our Wisconsin summer camp, these moments aren’t special programs. They’re woven into daily life.

Camp is fun — absolutely.
But camp is also a reflection of life.

There are great days and hard days. There are moments of success and moments of disappointment. Whether it’s a challenging canoe trip, missing a perfect cabin inspection score, navigating friendships, or trying something new for the first time, campers learn something essential:

I can get through this.

And that realization changes a child.

Why Adversity Matters (At the Right Pace)

Research continues to show what we’ve witnessed for decades: adversity cannot be simulated — it must be experienced. But it must also be appropriate.

At SNC, leadership is taught at a child’s own pace.

For one camper, adversity may be remembering to bring a towel to swim.
For another, it may be managing homesickness, resolving a conflict, or speaking up in a group.

What matters is not the size of the challenge — but that the child faces it, supported by caring, trained counselors who guide rather than remove the difficulty.

This is where real confidence is built.

Everyday Leadership at Camp

Leadership at camp doesn’t belong only to the loudest voice or the strongest athlete.

It shows up when:

• Two campers work through conflict with counselor guidance

• A child advocates for what they need

• A camper takes initiative to help others

• A group learns cooperation matters more than winning

These are daily experiences, not occasional lessons.

Billie Jean King once said, “Pressure is a privilege.”
At camp, children experience pressure in healthy, supportive ways — trying new things, being seen, risking failure — and learning they are capable.

The Counselor Difference

One of the greatest strengths of camp is the counselor relationship.

Well-trained camp counselors don’t eliminate challenges — they walk alongside children through them. This is why camps often outperform other youth environments in leadership development.

The focus isn’t on performance or ranking.
It’s on growth.

The difference is subtle but powerful:
Leadership development, not performance training.

A Reality Parents Should Know

In many competitive environments, leadership opportunities narrow as pressure increases. When children struggle, opportunities often decrease.

At camp, struggle leads to guidance — not benching.

Leadership opportunities are distributed to every child, because every child will need these skills in school, work, relationships, and life.

Not every child will need sport-specific leadership.
But 100% of children will need to advocate for themselves, handle adversity, and communicate through conflict.

Naming What Camp Truly Teaches

We believe it’s time to move beyond vague phrases like “camp magic.”

What actually happens at a leadership-focused summer camp in Wisconsin like SNC is this:

Children practice:

• Self-advocacy

• Resilience

• Decision-making

• Responsibility

• Communication through challenge

These are not “soft skills.”
They are life capabilities.

Camp delivers them daily — naturally, joyfully, and at each child’s pace.

Thank you for trusting us with your child’s growth. It’s a responsibility we’ve carried with care for over three decades, and one we never take lightly.

Warmly,
Lonnie & Jeff
 www.SNC.Camp
630-654-8036
30+ Years of Leadership, Growth, and Camp Community

FAQ'S About Overnight Leadership Summer Camp in Wisconsin

What makes SNC a leadership summer camp?
At SNC, leadership is developed through daily experiences, not lectures or titles. Campers learn leadership by practicing real-life skills such as self-advocacy, decision-making, communication through conflict, and resilience. These lessons happen naturally through camp life — canoe trips, cabin living, teamwork, and problem-solving — all guided by trained counselors.

Is SNC an overnight summer camp?
Yes. SNC is a traditional overnight summer camp in Wisconsin, where campers live in cabins, share meals, and build independence away from home. Overnight camp provides the space children need to grow confidence, responsibility, and leadership skills in a supportive environment.

At what age does leadership development begin at camp?
Leadership development begins at a child’s own pace. Younger campers practice leadership through small responsibilities and guided choices, while older campers take on more complex challenges such as conflict resolution, teamwork, and initiative. Leadership is not one-size-fits-all — it grows with the child.

How does overnight camp help children build confidence?
Overnight camp allows children to experience manageable challenges independently, while still being supported. Whether it’s trying a new activity, navigating friendships, or handling a difficult day, campers learn: “I can do hard things.” That confidence carries into school, relationships, and life.

Is camp still fun if it focuses on leadership?
Absolutely. Camp should be fun — and it is. Fun and leadership are not opposites. Joy, laughter, friendship, and play create the foundation that allows children to take healthy risks, try new things, and grow. At SNC, fun is what makes leadership development effective.

How is SNC different from sports or academic leadership programs?
Many programs focus on performance and outcomes. SNC focuses on growth. At camp, leadership opportunities are available to every child, not just top performers. When campers struggle, they receive guidance instead of being sidelined. This creates leadership skills that transfer beyond camp into everyday life.

What role do counselors play in leadership development?
Counselors are trained to guide campers through challenges rather than remove them. They help campers reflect, communicate, and problem-solve, which turns everyday moments into leadership lessons. This relationship-based approach is one of the most powerful parts of an overnight leadership camp experience.

Why choose a leadership summer camp in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin offers a unique camp environment with lakes, forests, and wildlife that encourage connection to nature and personal growth. At SNC, campers experience outdoor adventures, unplug from screens, and learn resilience in a setting that supports reflection, independence, and community.

How does camp prepare children for real life?
Camp mirrors life. There are great days and hard days. Campers learn that perfection isn’t required — effort, reflection, and trust in oneself matter more. These experiences teach children how to handle pressure, recover from setbacks, and move forward with confidence.

Discovering the Best Summer Camps in Wisconsin: What Parents Should Know
By Lonnie, Camp Director at Swift Nature Camp

Choosing the right summer camp for your child is both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. As a camp director in Wisconsin for three decades, I’ve spoken with hundreds of parents asking the same big question: What are the best summer camps in Wisconsin, and how do I know which is right for my child?

Whether you're searching for overnight camps in Wisconsin, nature-based summer camps, or traditional sleepaway camps for kids, there are a few universal qualities that the best camps share. Here’s a helpful guide based on what I’ve seen work best for children — including what we aim to provide every summer at Swift Nature Camp. For my husband and I we appreciate when parents call or text their questions to us. Yes, we have much information on our website but this shows the parents that go that extra step to ensure their Childs experience will be the best.

Why Kids Need Independence & Resilience—And How Summer Camp Helps

A Note from Lonnie, Director of Swift Nature Camp

As a camp director for over 30 years, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible transformation that happens when kids step out of their comfort zones, try new things, and learn to navigate the world without a parent by their side.

I get it—as parents, we want to protect our kids. We want them to be happy, safe, and successful. But in today’s world of constant connectivity, structured activities, and “snowplow parenting” (where obstacles are cleared before a child even faces them), kids often don’t get the chance to develop independence, resilience, and confidence—three essential traits they need to thrive in life.

That’s where overnight camp comes in.

At Swift Nature Camp (SNC), we provide a safe, supportive environment where kids can grow in ways they simply can’t at home. They make decisions, solve problems, and face challenges—without a parent stepping in to fix things. And the results? Life-changing.

The Shift from Protection to Strengthening: A Parenting Perspective

As parents, our instinct to protect our children is both natural and admirable. From the moment we become aware of their existence, our first responsibility is to keep them safe. In those early years, protection is our top priority—shielding them from harm, guiding their every step, and ensuring their world is as secure as possible. But as children grow, our role as parents must evolve.

I have four sons, and over time, I’ve realized that true parenting isn’t just about protecting—it’s about preparing. While I once held their hands to keep them from falling, they are now stronger, taller, and more independent. They navigate the world on their own, facing challenges I can’t and shouldn’t shield them from. My job wasn’t just to protect them indefinitely; it was to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to protect themselves and others. That transition—stepping back before I felt ready—was difficult, but essential.

This shift in mindset is crucial for every parent. If we overprotect, we prevent our children from developing the resilience and independence they need to thrive. Instead of focusing solely on keeping them safe, we must also teach them how to face challenges, problem-solve, and grow through adversity. At Swift Nature Camp, we embrace this philosophy. Our camp experience is designed to help kids build confidence, independence, and resilience in a safe, supportive environment—preparing them for the world beyond childhood.

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The Power of Overnight Camp: A Real-World Classroom for Life Skills

At Swift Nature Camp, we create an intentional space where kids learn life’s most important lessons through real experiences:

• They miss home—and learn they can still have fun.
• They struggle to make new friends—but discover they’re capable of forming deep, meaningful connections.
• They fail at something—like tipping over their canoe or falling on waterskis—but they try again and succeed.
• They face conflict—but learn how to work through it, without a parent stepping in.

Each of these moments builds confidence, problem-solving skills, and emotional resilience—traits that will serve them for a lifetime.

“My Child is Too Anxious for Camp” – A Common Concern

Many parents worry that their child will be too nervous, too shy, or too homesick for sleepaway camp. But here’s what I’ve learned:

Anxiety is often two misunderstandings:

1. We believe the challenge is bigger than it actually is.
2. We doubt our ability to handle it.

The best way to overcome this? Experience.

At SNC, we help kids face and conquer these worries in a gentle, encouraging way—one step at a time. By the end of camp, those same kids who were hesitant at drop-off are beaming with pride, more confident than ever before.

Why Swift Nature Camp is the Best Camp for First-Time Campers

Unlike large, overwhelming camps, Swift Nature Camp is intentionally small—with a maximum of 50 children during our special Discovery Camp for first-time campers. This allows us to provide individual attention, a welcoming atmosphere, and a non-competitive, all-inclusive environment where kids feel safe to grow.

Here’s what makes SNC stand out:

• Only for first-time campers – No teens, just boys and girls ages 6-12 learning together.
• Small group size – Maximum of 50 campers ensures a tight-knit community.
• Meet & Greet before camp – So kids feel comfortable before even arriving.
• Nature, Science & Animals – Hands-on learning in our Nature Center, plus real conservation experiences.
• Water & Land Adventures – Canoeing, hiking, archery, and more to build confidence.
• Non-denominational & welcoming – Every child feels at home.
• 12-Day Length – Just long enough for kids to grow, learn, and love camp.
• A FUN Guarantee – Because camp should be exciting, engaging, and transformative!

Letting Go: A Challenge for Parents Too

I won’t sugarcoat it—sending your child to camp for the first time can be hard for you too. But I promise, the rewards are worth it.

At SNC, we see it every summer:

• The nervous child who transforms into a confident leader.
• The shy camper who finds their voice and makes lifelong friends.
• The homesick child who discovers they are stronger than they thought.

And parents? They often tell us, “I can’t believe how much my child grew in just two weeks.”

Ready to Give Your Child the Gift of Confidence & Independence?

If you’re looking for the best summer camp for first-time campers, a nature-based outdoor adventure camp, or a sleepaway camp that builds confidence and resilience, Swift Nature Camp is the place.

Don’t wait—our Discovery Camp fills fast!

Not quiet sure if you or your camper is ready? Please give me a call 630-654-8036

Lonnie

Why Do Parents Send Their Kids to Summer Camp

As the director of Swift Nature Camp, I've noticed a recent decline in social adjustment among children, and it's one of the reasons why parents choose to send their kids to summer camp. In today's digital age, children are spending more time in front of screens and less time interacting face-to-face with their peers. This lack of social interaction can hinder their ability to develop crucial social skills like communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution.

Parents recognize the importance of providing their children with opportunities to connect with others in a meaningful way, and summer camp offers the perfect environment for that. At Swift Nature Camp an overnight coed camp in Wi, campers are immersed in a community where they learn to collaborate, communicate, and build relationships with their fellow campers and counselors. Whether it's working together on a team challenge, sharing stories around the campfire, or simply making new friends during cabin time, camp provides countless opportunities for social growth and development.

But it's not just about social skills – parents also send their kids to summer camp to help them disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world. Camp allows children to unplug from the distractions of everyday life and fully engage with their surroundings, whether it's exploring the wilderness, discovering new hobbies, or simply enjoying the simple pleasures of outdoor living.

Ultimately, parents send their kids to summer camp because they trus us and want them to have the chance to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive and nurturing environment. And at Swift Nature Camp, we're committed to providing that experience for every camper who walks through our gates. To learn more about camp give a call 630-654-8036.

Talk to you soon

Lonnie

www.SNC.Camp

The summer camp season is approaching, Especially in those state that have many residential summer camps, states like Wisconsin, Minnesota and Illinois are knowen for sending children to summer camp and for many of these families, the countdown has already begun. But what's all the fuss about? Jeff Lorenz from Swift Nature Camp is quick to mention "Why is summer camp such a popular option for parents and children alike"? The truth is that summer camp provides numerous benefits for children, as well as some surprising benefits for parents too. In this article, we'll explore five benefits for children and three benefits for parents of sending your kids to summer camp.

Benefits for Children:

1. Independence and Self-Confidence: Summer camp is an excellent opportunity for children to develop their independence and self-confidence. Being away from home and parents for a few weeks can be scary, but it also provides children with a chance to learn to rely on themselves and to gain confidence in their abilities. They learn to make decisions on their own, to try new things, and to take risks.

2. Social Skills: At summer camp, children are surrounded by peers and are encouraged to interact with them in a positive way. They learn to build relationships, to cooperate with others, and to communicate effectively. Camp activities such as team sports, group projects, and campfire storytelling can also improve their social skills.

3. Physical Activity: Many children today spend a lot of time indoors, either in front of screens or doing sedentary activities. Summer camp provides them with an opportunity to get out in the fresh air and engage in physical activity. They can try new sports, develop their skills in a particular area, and improve their overall fitness.

4. Creativity and Problem Solving: Summer camp offers children the chance to engage in creative activities such as arts and crafts, drama, and music. These activities encourage children to think creatively, develop their problem-solving skills, and express themselves in new ways.

5. Memories and Fun: One of the best things about summer camp is the memories that children make. They have fun, make new friends, and have experiences that they will remember for the rest of their lives. Summer camp can provide children with a break from the routine of daily life and give them a chance to have a truly unforgettable summer.

Benefits for Parents:

1. Peace of Mind: Parents can feel reassured knowing that their children are safe and supervised at summer camp. They can relax and enjoy their own summer activities, knowing that their kids are in good hands.

2. Personal Time: Summer camp provides parents with a much-needed break from parenting. They can take some personal time to focus on their own interests and needs, without having to worry about the kids.

3. Value for Money: Summer camp can be an affordable alternative to other summer activities, especially if parents are working during the day. It can provide children with a full day of fun and activities, without the added expense of babysitters or day care.

In conclusion, summer camp offers a wide range of benefits for children and parents alike. It provides children with an opportunity to develop their independence, social skills, physical fitness, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, while also creating unforgettable memories. For parents, summer camp offers peace of mind, personal time, and excellent value for money. So why not give your child the gift of summer camp this year? The countdown is on!

learn more about Summer Camp

DID YOU KKNOW YOUR CHILD CARE TAX CREDIT CAN HELP REDUCE THE COST OF SUMMER CAMP?

INVESTOPEDIA MAKES THES SUGGESTIONS.

Childcare benefits 

Paying a daycare center, babysitter, or even summer-camp fees for a child can be a lot cheaper with tax benefits. A child which constitutes a qualified tax dependent who is 13 or younger, as well as a disabled dependent of any age, make parents eligible for a tax credit that can ease their federal income tax obligation.3

• Up to 35% of qualifying child care expenses (capped at $3,000) for a single child.4
• Up to $6,000 for multiple children or dependents.4

This tax credit is intended for both employed and self-employed parents and guardians who earn income regularly. Individuals and couples who have been unemployed for a part of the year can also use it. To qualify, all the following conditions must be met:

• You must have earned income in the past tax year (both your spouse and you if you are filing together).4
• You must be the child’s (or dependent’s) custodial parent or caretaker.4
• You must either work and earn an income, or actively be looking for employment.4
• Your child/dependent must be 13 or younger—unless they have a physical or mental disability that makes them unable to care for themselves.4
• The provider(s) of childcare must not be your dependent or spouse, nor the child’s parent.4

The IRS has a broad spectrum of expenses it considers childcare-related, which are not limited to daycare and babysitters. The full list of potentially eligible expenses includes the following:

• Babysitter or licensed childcare center3
• Maid, housekeeper, or cook who cares for the child/dependent3
• Summer camps, day camps, and even sports camps can qualify if they care for the child/dependent while the parents are working. Overnight camps are not included and do not qualify3
• Before-school and after-school care for children of 13 and younger3
• Nurse, or other care providers for disabled children or dependents3

As parents  we all want to be the best parents we can be. Our goal is to help develop children who are kind, considerate, independant and can do things for themselves. In short, we want our children to be thier personal best. Yet, thier is one thing that every parent MUST remember. The video is a parent skill video that will help you help your child. The steps outlined are the same steps we train our camp counselors  to do in helping a child. Watch this video to learn this helpful 4 step program.

As parents we all want the best for our child. We have goals and want them to be thier best. Yet, thier is one thing that every parent MUST remember. Do you know what that is? Watch this video to learn this helpful 4 step program.