When President Obama proposed his plans for reforming America's schools last April, I wrote an op-ed because his strategy included extending the school day and school calendar. I have to assume he's never been to camp, because anyone who has knows how pivotal it is to a child's social education and positive youth development.
For the non-camp people - or if you would like affirmation and/or research to back your own anecdotal experience - click here to read my article, "Keep Camp in Summer," which was published in Newsday on July 5.
I would personally love to hear what you think and will also share your thoughts with the folks at the American Camp Association who are passionate about providing a camp experience for every child.
Bravo! I loved your article!
I believe extending the school day & year parallels the thought of giving more homework equals smarter children & better grades. Both of which I strongly oppose because it's simply not proven to be true. Your article holds true to EVERYTHING I firmly believe children get out of having a wonderful camp experience. Thank you for writing it as it should be read by all.
Some of the best times I ever had in my life were while camping as a kid. Now That i'm 38 and have a young family of my own, it suddenly occured to me that I have never taken my children on a camping adventure! Somehow during all the hustle & bustle of the last 6 years, it somehow slipped my mind that beyond the skyscrapers of the concrete jungle lie all therolling hills, beautiful oceans, lakes & mountain ranges that I was so lucky to have been able to take in as a young child.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for putting up this Keep Camp in Summer - Campfire Stories for Parents page! It took me back to a much simpler time & made me realise that I need to get my kids to a place like this before they're all grown up!
Some of the best times I ever had in my life were while camping as a kid. Now That i'm 47 and have a young family of my own, it suddenly occured to me that I have never taken my children on a camping adventure! Somehow amidst all the hustle & bustle of the last 7 years, it somehow slipped my mind that beyond the skyscrapers of the big city lie all therolling hills, beautiful oceans, lakes & mountain ranges that I was so lucky to have been able to observe as a young child.
I thank you from the bottom of my heart for putting up this Keep Camp in Summer - Campfire Stories for Parents page! It took me back to a much simpler time & made me realise that I need to get my kids to a place like this before they're all grown up!