Variety
Summer camps give teens a chance to try something new or continue doing something they enjoy. From arts and crafts to team and individual sports, there are several options to choose from.According to the ACA, there were more than 12,000 day and resident camps in the United States in 2011. The five most popular camp activities were:
- Recreational Swimming
- Arts/Crafts
- Challenge/Ropes
- Archery
- Aquatic Activities
Participating in a summer camp provides an opportunity for teens to:
- Hone Their Craft: Practice makes perfect, and when teens attend camps that feature one of their favorite sports or activities, improvement is inevitable. These camps typically have coaches and counselors who are experts in their fields, and the expertise and direction they can provide for your teen is invaluable.
- Experiment with New Activities: If your child is looking for a new hobby, trying a summer camp is a great way to experiment with something new. Whether they love the outdoors and want to learn more about exploring, hiking and camping or they're tech-savvy and interested in filmography or graphic design, there's a camp for everyone.
- Delve Deeper: If your teen has shown an aptitude in a school subject like astronomy or natural science, check out local museums, and see if they're offering any summer curriculum on the topic. Who knows, your teen might even discover their college major.
- Push Their Limits: Physically challenging camps and overnight camps can force teens out of their comfort zone and provide a rewarding experience. It may be their first time away from home for a weekend or their first chance to test their physical and mental toughness. Whatever it is, the benefits often outweigh the cost.
- Special Needs: Many camps are specifically-designed to cater to children or adults with special needs. The ACA noted that 47 percent of camps in 2011 offered specialized programs for individuals with disabilities.
READ THIS NEXT: Parent's Guide to Summer Camp
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