5 Ways
Camp Brings Your Child the
Summers You Remember
F
or many parents, there is a certain sense of nostalgia when
looking back on their childhood summertime memories.
The end of the school year meant days filled with outdoor
adventures, playing pick-up games of baseball with neighborhood
kids, and staying outside until the streetlights came on. In today’s
world, it seems nearly impossible for our children to have the
same kind of simple, imaginative, and carefree experiences. But
according to John Yonko, the executive director of Camp Notre
Dame in Fairview, there are many ways a week of camping can
make it happen.
1
Unplugging from an Online World
In the ‘70s and ‘80s, daytime television was limited to soap
operas and game shows, a lineup that would make any kid bored
enough to turn off the TV and head outside.
There wasn’t the lure of limitless video games and social media
websites. Not to mention, the word cyber-bullying didn’t even
exist. Simply put, it’s hard not to be overwhelmed with electronics
today. But a camp provides kids with a temporary respite.
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“We pride ourselves in being completely unplugged,” said
Yonko. “We’re surrounded by 120 acres of nature, nestled in
Fairview. Our cell phone service is very limited. So there is not
a lot of ability to connect. Philosophically we feel that’s a good
thing. We tell parents that campers should leave their devices at
home.”
2
Getting a Taste of Independence and Adventure
Our culture of constant connectedness through cell phones
often makes it difficult for parents to let their kids be inaccessible
for a whole week. But Yonko explains that this is a chance for a
child to write a letter and have the excitement of receiving a letter
or care package at mail call.
It’s also a chance for kids to make a few of their own choices
and explore on their own. “The counselors teach them how to
build a campfire and tell them stories. In the middle of the week
they put on a big scavenger hunt,” says Yonko. “These are some of
the creative parts of camp that are so unique. It’s not