Value refers to the worth and integrity of an item.
Let’s agree that our most valued and treasured asset in the world is our children. They are irreplaceable and we will work hard to provide for and protect them.
Consider a week at summer Camp as a serious investment in the development of your child socially, physically, mentally and spiritually. Not all Camp experiences are the same as you may have discovered, but here is a quick VALUE inventory to use when selecting a summer Camp.
V = verify and validate your child’s interest and desire to go to camp. Camp is not for every child, yet do challenge them to get out and discover new friends, talents and experiences. Camp can be a good growth stretch for both of you.
A = assess the strengths and weakness of the Camp. What areas are they really strong in such as sports, dance, life skills, staffing, programs … what areas of concern do you perceive? Are they exclusive, competitive, restrictive, open / unstructured, passive, unchallenging, etc … you get the idea. Really think these things through.
L = look and listen to “what is said” and “what is not said” by both the Camp and its followers. Do they say Camp was the best thing for my child? The staff really took a personal interest – my child was not just a number? Is the Camp’s mission and core values congruent and in alignment with your family?
U = understand that your child must get involved and engaged with the staff and programs.
Today, too many kids / teens are limiting themselves by not taking initiative or making the commitment with their given opportunities.
Camp is a good opportunity to embrace personal responsibility for their actions from things as simple as making a bed, clearing the table to lifetime skills in learning how to getting along with others
E = evaluate their expressions and experience.
You’ll know immediately by their face and body language what impact Camp has made. Sure they’ll come home tired, but once they’ve rested the stories will start flowing.
What types of relationships were made, reinforced and will last beyond the session of Camp? How does the Camp provide for your personal input and feedback to better build into your family? Camp is a place for growth, discovery of interests and talents and a community of support.
Parents must intentionally place their most valued asset in an environment that is safe, creative, constructive and meaningful for their entire family.
This is an important investment that must have BIG returns – personal growth and responsibility and the awareness of others. Camp can indeed pay dividends to a parent’s and child’s best interest.
Camp is good, choose wisely.