Many experts agree: participating in a summer camp has a wide range of benefits for kids of all ages. But are these benefits limited to what we typically think of as “camp” — you know, sleeping in bunk houses and learning how to canoe?
Below, we’ve listed 5 of the most-cited benefits of summer camp and applied them to Creative Writing Camp.
1.) Appropriate Risk Taking — Since there are no grades tied to the writing that is done at camp, writers have the opportunity to take risks and try genres or techniques that are new.
2.) Meeting a Variety of People – Our campers come from across Southeast Wisconsin as well as other states and bring a wide variety of experiences and background to share with each other.
3.) Learning About Creativity – When we collaborate, our creative minds see connections and possibilities we might otherwise miss. Many campers are genuinely surprised and delighted by what they generate during camp.
4.) Exposure to Positive Role Models – Role models come in the form of our experienced writing coaches but also other camp participants. Year after year, we are impressed by the caliber of our young people — and not just their writing skills either. Our writers are supportive, positive and focused. They have a wonderful impact on each other.
5.) Gaining Self-Confidence and Maturity – This is especially evident in the last day of camp when participants proudly share their work with an audience. They overcome their nerves and rise to the challenge. Parents comment on the personal growth of their children in such a short time.
