Camp Does Kids a World of Good
Most parents, camp directors and youth development professionals have long believed that organized camping contributes positively to children’s growth and development in many ways. Campers at day and resident camps have many opportunities to make new friends, acquire knowledge and new skills, and gain independence.
A study by the American Camp Association (Directions: Youth Development Outcomes of the Camp Experience, 2005, American Camp Association; www.ACAcamps.org.) clearly demonstrated that youth camp does kids a world of good. Campers and their parents reported increased self-esteem and self-sufficiency as a result of their camp experiences. Camp staff reported that campers made friends easily, got along with others, had fewer social insecurities and demonstrated leadership. Campers reported the largest gains in the area of adventure/exploration, defined as the willingness to try new things and take positive risks. Camps had a significant impact
by challenging youth and raising their
expectations, while shifting them away from ordinary routines. Parents also noticed an improvement in respect, thoughtfulness and adherence to rules.
Hidden Valley 4-H Camp, an ACA accredited camp right here in Watkins Glen, is accepting registrations for youth ages 8-17 for week-long sessions of day or residential camp. New this year, Cloverbuds Day Camp ages 5-7.
To learn more....Hidden Valley 4-H Camp
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Campers and
their parents reported increased
self-esteem and self-sufficiency as a result of their camp experiences.
The 2014 season of the Hidden Valley
4-H Camp had 699 overnight, weekend and day campers combined. Campers represented 25 different counties in New York State, 14 out of state and 1 international. Our camp staff of 43 included 3 international counselors all between the ages of 16 and 65 years of age. A new addition to camp was a partnership with the Painted Bar Stables in Burdett, NY. Forty-eight campers participated in 2 separate weeks of riding camp under the direction of Erika Eckstrom. Hidden Valley 4-H Camp ran for six weeks with an Alumni Weekend, two mid-season stay-over weekends and a well-attended Fall weekend.