Jestem dyrektorem obozu letniego dla dzieci i młodzieży ale przede wszystkim jestem rodzicem. Obserwując  zjawisko spędzania wielu godzin przez nasze dzieci przed ekranem komputera lub telewizora  ogarnia mnie przerażenie. Co się stało, że najmłodsi zamienili zabawę na świeżym powietrzu na długotrwałe  przesiadywanie w zamkniętym pomieszczeniu przez elektronicznym urządzeniem? Jeszcze nie  tak dawno, pamiętamy to ze swojego dzieciństwa, kiedy dzieci miały wolny czas, beztrosko bawiły  się z rówieśnikami, czytały  książki, goniły po podwórku i sąsiedztwie. Dziś wybierają ekran komputera, tabletu czy telefonu. To nowy styl życia, który przejęła nie tylko młodzież. Dochodzi do takich paradoksów kiedy rodzice karząc dziecko  zobowiązują go by wyszło  z domu. Dla nas karą było gdy rodzice zabronili nam wyjść do kolegów na podwórko. Często my dorośli nie tylko nie sprzeciwiamy się takim sytuacjom ale sami promujemy taka formę wypoczynku. Być może czasem zwrócimy naszym dzieciom uwagę by odłożyły komputer, czy telefon ale tak naprawdę nie wiele to daje. To od nas, jako rodziców, zależy czy dzieci  zachowają zdrowe proporcje bycia " na internecie" i " poza internetem".

Ile czasu twoje dziecko spędza przed ekranem? Dwie godziny, trzy, pięć...? Ostanie badania naukowe wykazały, że dzieci i młodzież w wieku 8-18 lat spędzają przeciętnie 7.5 godziny dziennie przed ekranem. Co w tym takiego złego? Efektem takiego stylu życia sa problemy z koncentracja uwagi, problemy wychowawcze, trudności w nauce, w zasypianiu, otyłość czy powolny zanik tradycyjnych relacji międzyludzkich. Lekarze opisują nową etiologię nadciśnienia tętniczego u nastolatków, która wynika z wielogodzinnych sesji  “online” spędzonych na grach komputerowych. Młodym ludziom coraz trudniej  nawiązywać kontakty " twarzą w twarz". Ekran to rozrywka i często dla tzw. świetego spokoju pozwalamy dzieciom na taka formę zabawy. Przyjrzyjmy sie sytuacjom  codziennym  np. w restauracji. Nie rzadko siedząca przy stole rodzina podzielona jest na tych, którzy rozmawiają  patrząc sobie w oczy( to zwykle starsze osoby) i tych, którzy wpatrzeni sa w ekran telefonu i nie sa zaangażowani w rodzinna rozmowę. Jeśli chcemy zmiany, wszyscy musimy podjąć w tym celu odpowiedni wysiłek. 

Zarówno my rodzice jak i dzieci powinniśmy ograniczyć czas spędzany przed ekranem.  Nie możemy mieć wymówki, ze był ciężki dzień w pracy dlatego siadamy przed telewizorem i sie relaksujemy. Jako rodzina usiądźmy razem i porozmawiajmy o tym nowym stylu życia. 

1) Ustalmy reguły według których wiadomo będzie ile czasu przed ekranem jest dopuszczalne. 

W naszym domu jest to przywilej, nagroda za odrobione lekcje i wykonanie innych obowiązków. 

2) Tak jak jest zakaz prowadzenia pojazdów i tekstowania, wprowadźmy podobne zasady w domu. Np. Zakaz tekstowania przy stole w czasie posiłku, czy po określonej godzinie.

3) Dzieci często uciekają sie do ekranu bo nie wiedza co z sobą zrobić. Zachęćmy je do zabaw z naszego dzieciństwa, niech pogonią po podwórku, łapią żaby, robią łuki z patyków a jak zimno na zewnątrz niech budują z LEGO, rysują, układają puzzle. A jak jest możliwość to i my zaangażujmy sie w rodzinny spacer, czy wycieczkę rowerową. 

W naszym domu tradycją stał sie wieczór gier planszowych, na które często wparszaja sie znajomi. Czas spędzony przed ekranem jest ograniczony do 30 minut po wykonanych obowiązkach. Raz w tygodniu mamy wieczor kiedy zasiadamy jako rodzina i oglądamy film odpowiedni dla nas wszystkich. Czy taki styl życia jest łatwy? Zdecydowanie nie, to nasz wybór. Ale za to możemy więcej czasu spędzić razem i wcale to nie jest takie złe :)

Niech to będzie wyzwanie dla całej rodziny. Walczmy z tym technologicznym potworem i nie dajmy sie mu pożreć. Postęp technologiczny jest wspaniały i ważne jest by dzieci potrafiły z niego korzystać, jednak nie pozwalajmy by przez to zanikały międzyludzkie relacje czy tradycyjne wartości.

Pozdrawiam serdecznie, 

Jola Lorenz

Wlasciciel obozu Swift Nature Camp

www.SwiftNatureCamp.com

Summer Camp is Expensive
As parents we often make decisions that are hard. Yet, we know these decisions are the best for our children. Summer Camp is no exception. We know deep down that camp will help our Childs independence, empathy and team building skills Yet, camp is expensive. So you want to save money on summer camp? Who doesn't! The best way to save money on Summer camp is to start looking as soon as possible. Here is a quick list of just a few of the ways to save on your Childs overnight camp experience.

1. Summer Camp Special Offer

Many camps may have special offers. It will take research to find them. Some camps will even reduce prices if they need to fill beds at a particular session. So having flexibility in dates and talking with the camp director you may be able to save. Right now Swift Nature Camp is having  A First timer Summer Camp special offer saving nearly 30% off the session price. 

 Every day parents search the internet for sleepaway camps near me. Yet. parents often are not searching the right key terms. No, overnight camps near me is not the right way to find a residential camp. The issue is the "near me". When picking a camp it is natural for a parent to assume that the closer it is the better it will be for thier child. Nothing could be further from the truth. Distance should only be one of the factors to consider.  Why? Because systematically asking the right questions will help ensure the success of your child at overnight summer camps. 
Here are a just a few of the more important questions:

• How long are the sessions?
• How are staff trained?
• Is an RN or Doctor on staff?
• Are activities going to be enjoyed by your child?
• Coed or single gender?
• How many children, How many staff?
• Are cell phones allowed?
• What is the cost?
• Is the camp Accredited by the American Camp Association?

To find a detailed list of questions to answer please see Summer Camp Advice.

The above list is only a beginning of question needed. So you can see that when you get to the point of thinking about location many other areas of concern should have already been addressed. Parents need to realize they need to trust the camp and its directors in order to achieve some of the benefit of an overnight camp. This is why it is important for parent to contact the directors and create a personal relationship with the camp.

• Here are a few Reasons to choose a camp farther from home:
  It's worth it: There may be something about a camp that makes the travel worth it. If your child wants to specialize in sailing or mountain climbing, you'll need to choose a camp that meets those need. A parent may have a preference for a camp that they once attended, even if they no longer reside in the area.

• Diversity: While your camper may not see as many familiar faces in a camp far from home, this may be just what he or she, and you, want. Children may want to separate their camp life from the lives they lead the rest of the year, having the opportunity to begin the program with a 'clean slate'. Campers often have a sense of freedom when they go to a camp where they don't know anyone.

• The distance doesn't bother the camper or parents: Many children find traveling alone, even by airplane, exciting rather than scary. Assuming that proper travel arrangements are made, you may be comfortable with a camp away from home.

• So when picking a sleep away summer camp do your homework. Realize that many many considerations need to be made and  and be aware that overnight camps near me should not be your first search term. Using this, you will limit your options and minimize many of the benefits summer camp can provide.

Summer camp is a special place it give children a place to call home that is less structured has less pressure than their home routines of school and sports. Plus it gives kids a chance to experience life in a screen free zone, just like the olden days. Yet when an overnight summer camp has an environmental Education focus, camp doubles up its value to campers and parents alike. 

At Swift Nature Camp is an environmental education summer camp in Wisconsin that is rooted in fun with nearly 50 different land and water activities its hard not to have fun. Learning new skills in a non competitive fun way allows each child to participate at their level and try to better themselves. To give children autonomy, camp daily gives children the opportunity to select the activities that they want to do that day. So in a way a camper get to create their own camp experience rather than having adults give them a schedule.  Kind of like the old days when chidden could just go outside and play.

Our campers love nature and environmental studies, so at Swift Nature Camp we blend camp activities with outdoor education along with summer fun.  Our goal is to have our campers uses an exploration to developing an hands on appreciation and understanding of the natural world in Wisconsin that is right outside their cabin door. .Our interactive activities utilize scientific skills of discovery, observation and investigation. Yet what are campers love is our Nature Center and Camp zoo. Here many native animals are kept as well as other small pets. Campers even have the opportunity to adopt an animal while they are at camp. These critters are for learning responsibilities and animal care. 

Our daily environmental classes seeks to teach campers about human impact on the environment and to be aware of how they are connected to nature. This individual responsibility is the key to teaching children about conservation.  our hydroponic garden project is special because the campers help catch the fish that help verbalize the plants living in the garden, this interaction helps make the concepts stick. SNC 

Not only do campers learn Environmental Education but this overnight summer camp in Wisconsin let's children learn skills in personal relationship building. Kindness and understanding are the corner stone to cabin life, helping to insure team-building and cooperation. To learn more about Environmental Education in Wisconsin

🌿 Environmental Summer Camp Near Minnesota

A Hands-On Nature & Science Camp Kids Truly Love

Looking for the best environmental summer camp near Minnesota where your child can unplug, explore nature, and build real confidence?

Swift Nature Camp is a top-rated overnight environmental camp for Minnesota families, designed for kids who love animals, science, and the outdoors. Just a short drive from Minneapolis–St. Paul, it’s a place where curiosity grows, friendships form, and kids feel completely at home in nature.

🌎 What Is an Environmental Summer Camp?

An environmental summer camp is more than just being outdoors—it’s about helping kids understand and connect with the natural world through hands-on experiences.

At Swift Nature Camp, children don’t just learn about nature…
they live it every day.

Campers:

Explore forests, lakes, and wetlands
Learn about ecosystems through real discovery
Build environmental awareness naturally through play
Develop a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors

🧪 Hands-On Environmental Science (Not Classroom Learning)

This isn’t school—it’s real-world environmental learning.

Our campers:

• Investigate ponds, insects, and wildlife habitats
• Take part in fun, interactive science experiments
• Learn by doing, exploring, and asking questions
• Discover how nature works by being part of it

We believe:

When kids experience nature firsthand, they don’t just remember—they understand.

🐾 A Unique Animal-Based Environmental Camp Experience

One thing that truly sets us apart as an Minnesota Environmental Education Summer Camp is our connection with animals.

Each camper:

• Adopts and cares for a pet during their stay
• Learns responsibility through daily care routines
• Builds empathy and confidence through animal interaction

We even allow campers to bring a small pet from home, making camp feel more comfortable and personal—especially for first-time campers.

🌿 Perfect for Kids Who Love Nature (Not Just Sports)

Many Minnesota parents find us because their child isn’t drawn to traditional sports camps.

This is the perfect fit for kids who:

• Love animals, nature, and being outdoors
• Enjoy exploring, hiking, and discovering new things
• Prefer creativity and curiosity over competition
• Thrive in a smaller, supportive environment

Here, kids find their people—other campers who are just as excited about frogs, forests, and discovery.

📍 Close to Minnesota, Easy for Families

Swift Nature Camp is conveniently located within driving distance of Minneapolis–St. Paul, making it one of the most accessible Environmental Education Summer Camps for Minnesota families.

Parents appreciate:

• A manageable travel distance
• The ability to stay connected
• A balance of independence and reassurance

And something special often happens…

Parents come expecting to visit or take their child out for a break—
but their camper is too busy exploring, learning, and having fun to leave.

💚 More Than an Environmental Camp—A Place to Grow

At its heart, Swift Nature Camp is about more than nature—it’s about growth.

Campers leave with:

• Greater independence and confidence
• Strong friendships with like-minded kids
• A deeper connection to the environment
• A sense of belonging and accomplishment

For many families, this becomes the summer highlight their child looks forward to every year.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Environmental Summer Camp

What makes an environmental summer camp different?

Environmental camps focus on nature, science, and outdoor learning rather than structured sports. Kids learn through hands-on exploration and real-world experiences.

Is this a good camp for first-time campers?

Yes! Our supportive environment and smaller community make this an ideal first-time overnight camp, especially for kids who may feel unsure at larger camps.

How far is camp from Minnesota?

We’re located within a short drive of Minneapolis–St. Paul, making it convenient for Minnesota families. Yes, less than 2 hours drive.

What do kids actually do all day?

Campers stay active with:

• Nature exploration
• Animal care
• Science activities
• Outdoor adventures

Every day is different, engaging, and fun.

Is this camp good for kids who don’t like sports?

Absolutely. This is one of the best environmental summer camps for non-sporty kids, focusing on nature, animals, and discovery instead of competition.

🎯 Find the Right Environmental Summer Camp Near Minnesota

If you’ve been searching for:

• An environmental summer camp near Minnesota
• A nature-based overnight camp for kids
• A science and animal-focused summer experience
• A welcoming camp for first-time or non-sporty kids

You may have just found the perfect fit.

👉 Take the Next Step

We’d love to help you find the right session for your child.

Reach out anytime to learn more, ask questions, or see why so many Minnesota families choose Swift Nature Camp year after year. If you feel your child needs to get off their screen and be out in nature at a Minnesota Environmental Education Summer Camp then Swift Nature Camp is a wonderful place to make it happen. We even have an exclusive First Time at Camp program, perfect for the child who is new to spending the night away from home.

Happy Trails,
Lonnie & Jeff 🌲
630-654-8036
www.swnc.camp
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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.

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Ramblings of a Camp Director

It was 1966 and it was my first year at Camp Minocqua, a boys camp in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Dr. John P. Sprague, founded Camp Minocqua for Boys in 1905 on Tomahawk Lake.  The history of camp was part of the camp culture. Historically, camp was designed to taking young boys out of the cities and the finer things in life and allowing us boys to live out in nature with others boys, while our counselors just seemed like older brothers.  

Such was the beginning of residential boys camps in America. Later camps for girls were established by the Girl Scouts of America and Camp Fire girls. Sleepaway summer camps continued round World War I when many charities opened summer camps for working-class children giving them a chance to get a way from urban life.

Anyway, here I was at a residential camp where I would be staying for 7 weeks, that was a long time away from my parents. Was I ready? Absolutely not. I cried often during those first few weeks and when the storms came I was even more scared. But, I made friends that I still remember today, maybe better than my school friends. Camp gave me a chance to make decisions without my parents. Some were good and made me feel great, like when I got to name the sailboat “Stormy Weather”. Others were not so good and resulted in me taking a bite out of a bar of Ivory soap. But they were my decisions and the natural consequence fell where they would. From this independence I learned that when I make decisions and fail, I learn more than when my decisions result in success.

I returned to Camp Minocqua for 7 summers giving me almost one complete year living at camp. So I guess it was not all that surprising when at the age of 38 I got this idea to start a summer camp. Shortly there after I opened Swift Nature Camp. Yes, some of camp Minocqua’s history can be seen at SNC but times have changed and so has the overnight summer camp experience. No longer is Ivory soap cut in wedges nor are kids left unsupervised. No, Swift Nature Camp is an intentional place, filled with support and encouragement, a place that comforts children on their journey to adult hood. We help give kids the skills they need to be productive parts of society. Sleepaway camp should be part of every child’s summer.

Sleepaway summer camp is filled with fun! Yet as parents we are always looking for a way not to waste a summer...Residential summer camp has this to offer and much more.

1. 1) Kids gain independence
   Going to camp offers kids needed time away from family and regular friend groups. These experiences give them the space to gain independence.
4. 2) Kids develop essential relationship skills
   Unlike school where academic outcomes drive most of their daily activities, camp focuses in on social development, making friends, dealing with conflict and compromise.
7. 3) Kids learn to appreciate differences
   Building and maintaining relationships requires the ability to understand and appreciate differences among people. Camps provide a space where kids can interact with people from different backgrounds and cultures.
10. 4) Kids connect with nature
    Overnight camps provide a safe space for kids to be outside and explore the natural world, free of a screen.
11. 
    
    1. 5) Kids get to be kids
    In a highly connected and stressful world, there is increased research supporting the benefits of Free Play allowing kids to be kids – and that might be the most compelling reason why camp still matters.

Want to learn more give me a call 630-654-8036

Lonnie Lorenz
Swift Nature Camp
Director since 1996

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