Camp is more than just a place to play: Camp Builds Skills for Life!
Camp is Where We Rekindle Our Optimism!
How’s your optimism? Are you a glass half full or half empty person? Do you see the silver linings in situations or doom and gloom? When trying something new, do you expect the best? Hope and optimism are about an attitude: a choice to believe things will turn out for the best, even when they don’t go as expected.
Although I love to laugh, smile and encourage others, it can sometimes be a challenge to hold on to my optimism. Whether it’s a sad story on the evening news, a tough day at school or work, or dealing with an unforeseen disappointment: stress and negativity are everywhere. Children and youth are not immune: their classrooms and social lives are full of pressure to succeed, and the struggle to cope. But there’s good news, especially for kids who go to Camp!
A Natural Boost
According to an article published by CRC Health, there are more than 100 studies whose findings suggest that outdoor activities relieve stress and help us to have a sense of purpose, community, and connection. Since Camp is totally outdoors, children can reduce their stress by exploring, or playing in self-directed and unstructured setting of camp.
Confidence, a sense of purpose, and a sense of joy are plentiful at Camp, and are integral to fostering optimism. The teamwork and independence Camp encourages open the door for hope and a positive attitude. When our campers discover they can do an activity themselves, their newfound independence helps them feel more confident going forward. When they know that their participation is key to their team winning a game, that sense of purpose puts a smile on their face. One of my favorite moments is seeing the joy spread when new friends hug, high five, or work together. The uplifting emotions we feel at Camp keep our attitude positive. The knowledge we can accomplish what we set out to do, and the knowledge we are important, give us the strength to maintain our persistence and see difficult things in a better light.
We also strive to reframe mistakes, challenges, and obstacles as opportunities, which is key to an optimistic mindset. If a camper doesn’t catch a fish the first time, she can find a better spot, try a different bait, or ask a friend for help. If he has trouble on a scavenger hunt, his counselor and friends encourage him to keep looking. The satisfaction when he finally finds the mystery item is even greater, and the confidence boost is great for his sense of optimism (helping him in the face of future challenges).
The Power of Play
Of course, Camp is all about play, which is one of the most practical and effective ways to boost our mood. It’s hard to feel down when you’re having fun! What’s the secret? Play combines two things that have been scientifically proven to help maintain a positive attitude: exercise and laughter. Playtime gives our optimism an immediate and natural boost.
Our days at Leadership Academy are full of play: fort building, splashing in the creek, team games, silly songs, and so much more. I love watching our campers’ eyes light up while we play together. They discover new ways to use their imagination and let their creativity run wild. Our staff is dedicated to helping our campers stay positive and build a strong sense of hope and optimism. We believe children with a sense of hope and can visualize a future version of themselves are likely to achieve greater success. We believe in looking on the bright side, and there’s no better place to do that than outside!
