At Camp Tanager, children make new friends, explore the world around them, and learn that “I can” has more power than “I can’t”.  In an environment created just for them, children learn real life skills, develop self-esteem and gain a sense of independence and community.

Whether children are playing, exploring nature, conquering new heights or becoming part of the camp family, they are creating memories that last a lifetime.  Plus children are gaining resilience and a reawakened zeal to take care of themselves that lasts long after they’ve returned home.

Within the camp setting, children develop a sense of independence as they try new adventures away from home.  Summer camps are known for providing a safe environment where children gain self-confidence as they learn new skills.  Camp is also a place where children develop a variety of social skills (e.g.,  communication, conflict resolution).

Camp can provide an excellent experience for your child to learn and develop. According to the Search Institute, young people have seven developmental needs:

1. Physical Activity
2. Competence and Achievement
3. Self-Definition
4. Creative Self-Expression
5. Positive Social Interactions
6. Structure and Clear Limits
7. Meaningful Participation

The camp experience is uniquely positioned to provide all of these developmental needs for children. Consider camp as the perfect partner to family, school, and community youth activities in helping your child learn independence, decision-making, social and emotional skills, character building and values – all in an atmosphere of creativity and enrichment under the supervision of positive adult role models.

For more information about the benefits of camp for kids, check out the results of a landmark research study on the positive outcomes experienced by kids at summer camps across the United States.