At Camp Tekoa, we've observed firsthand the remarkable transformation that occurs when children unplug and engage with the natural world. Located in the serene Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, our camp intentionally creates a technology-free environment where children can rediscover the joys of direct experience, face-to-face communication, and outdoor adventure.
Quick Summary: Key Benefits of Disconnecting from Technology
When children take a break from screens and digital devices, they experience numerous benefits that impact their overall development and well-being:
- Physical Health: Increased physical activity, improved sleep quality, better eye health, and development of motor skills
- Mental Well-being: Reduced anxiety and stress, improved focus and attention span, enhanced creativity and imagination
- Social Development: Stronger interpersonal relationships, improved communication skills, greater empathy, and collaborative problem-solving abilities
- Spiritual Growth: Opportunities for self-discovery, deeper connection with nature, practice of mindfulness, and meaningful faith experiences
- Academic Advantages: Enhanced critical thinking, better information retention through experiential learning, and development of practical life skills
These benefits create a foundation for balanced, healthy development that serves children well beyond their time at camp. A technology break isn't just about what's removed—it's about the rich experiences and growth opportunities that take its place. Keep reading to learn more detail.
1. Physical Benefits of Unplugging
Increased Physical Activity
When children disconnect from their devices, their bodies naturally come alive. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children and adolescents get at least one hour of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily, yet only 24% of children ages 6 to 17 actually meet this recommendation. Screen time is one of the most significant barriers to physical activity.
At Camp Tekoa, we've designed our programs to engage children in constant movement – swimming in our spring-fed lake, hiking trails through the woods, climbing our 40-foot tower, or participating in high-energy group games. These activities don't just burn calories; they build strength, improve cardiovascular health, enhance coordination, and develop lifelong habits of physical wellness.
One parent shared, "After just one week at Camp Tekoa, my son came home with stronger muscles, better endurance, and a newfound love for hiking. The difference in his energy and physical confidence was remarkable."
Improved Sleep Quality
Research consistently shows that screen use before bedtime disrupts sleep patterns in children. The blue light emitted by screens suppresses melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Additionally, stimulating content can leave young minds racing when they should be winding down.
In our tech-free environment, campers follow a natural rhythm – rising with the sun for morning devotions and winding down with evening campfire songs and cabin prayers. Without the disruption of notifications and blue light, many campers experience deeper, more restorative sleep than they do at home.
Better Eye Health
Extended screen time contributes to digital eye strain, with symptoms including dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. More concerning is the rising prevalence of myopia (nearsightedness) in children, which has been linked to reduced outdoor time and increased close-up screen viewing.
When children spend time at camp, their eyes get to focus on distant mountains, nearby friends, and the intricate details of nature – providing the varied visual stimulation that developing eyes need. The natural sunlight exposure (with proper sun protection) also promotes healthy eye development in ways that artificial indoor lighting cannot replicate.
2. Mental and Emotional Benefits of Digital Detox
Reduced Anxiety and Stress
The constant bombardment of information, social media pressure, and the fear of missing out (FOMO) contributes significantly to childhood anxiety. In a 2019 study published in JAMA Pediatrics, researchers found that adolescents who spent more than three hours per day using social media may be at heightened risk for mental health problems.
At Camp Tekoa, we see the weight of digital stress lift from children's shoulders within days of arrival. Without the pressure to create perfect social media posts or respond instantly to messages, children relax into authentic experiences. Our focus on spiritual growth and community building provides healthy alternatives for processing emotions and finding meaning.
Improved Focus and Attention Span
Digital media with its instant gratification and rapid shifts in content trains young brains for constant stimulation and quick switches in attention. This makes it increasingly difficult for children to sustain focus on slower-paced, deeper thinking tasks.
The activities at Camp Tekoa require prolonged attention and focus – whether it's learning to paddle a canoe, creating a craft project, or working together to solve a challenge course. Campers often discover a renewed ability to immerse themselves fully in activities without the constant urge to check notifications or switch tasks.
Enhanced Creativity and Imagination
Psychological research suggests that boredom serves an important purpose – it's the space where creativity and imagination flourish. When children are constantly entertained by screens, they miss opportunities to develop their creative muscles.
Without technology as a crutch, campers at Tekoa quickly discover their innate creativity. From talent show performances to campfire skits, arts and crafts to imaginative play, we create endless opportunities for creative expression. Many parents tell us they're amazed by the songs, stories, and imaginative games their children bring home from camp.
3. Social Benefits of Unplugging
Stronger Interpersonal Connections
Perhaps the most significant benefit of disconnecting from technology is the depth of human connection that follows. At Camp Tekoa, we organize campers into "Family Groups" led by trained counselors (Family Group Leaders). These small communities create space for authentic relationships built on shared experiences rather than digital interactions.
Improved Communication Skills
When screens mediate our interactions, we miss out on critical aspects of communication – reading facial expressions, interpreting tone of voice, and practicing real-time responses. Children who spend excessive time on devices often struggle with the nuances of face-to-face communication.
Camp activities naturally foster communication skills. Whether working together on a challenge course, sharing during devotion time, or simply living together in cabins, campers constantly practice expressing themselves clearly, listening actively, and navigating disagreements constructively.
Development of Empathy
Empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another – develops through direct human interaction. Research suggests that excessive screen time can inhibit empathy development by reducing face-to-face interaction and exposing children to violent or desensitizing content.
At Camp Tekoa, children live in close community, sharing joys and challenges. They learn to recognize when a cabinmate is homesick and offer comfort. They experience the satisfaction of helping a friend overcome a fear on the climbing wall. These lived experiences of compassion and understanding develop emotional intelligence in ways that virtual interactions simply cannot.
4. Spiritual and Personal Growth Benefits
Self-Discovery and Identity Development
Away from the influences of social media and digital entertainment, children have space to connect with their authentic selves. Many campers discover new interests, uncover hidden talents, and develop a stronger sense of identity during their time at Camp Tekoa.
Connection with Nature
Research increasingly points to the psychological and spiritual benefits of time spent in natural settings. Nature exposure has been linked to reduced stress hormones, improved mood, and enhanced cognitive function – what some researchers call the "restorative effect" of natural environments.
Camp Tekoa's beautiful mountain setting offers the perfect backdrop for this nature connection. Whether it's watching a sunset over the mountains, gazing at stars without light pollution, or simply noticing the details of forest life, campers often experience a sense of wonder and peace that's increasingly rare in our digital world.
Mindfulness and Presence
Digital devices constantly pull our attention away from the present moment, training us to live in a state of partial attention. When children disconnect from technology, they can fully engage with their immediate experience – a foundational aspect of mindfulness practice.
Camp activities naturally promote mindfulness. The focused attention required for archery, the bodily awareness developed during swimming, and the sensory experience of a campfire all bring children fully into the present moment. This practice of presence carries significant benefits for emotional regulation and overall well-being.
Spiritual Connection
As a Christian camp, Tekoa provides intentional opportunities for spiritual growth through morning devotions, cabin discussions, pastor sessions, and evening reflections. Without digital distractions, many campers report deeper spiritual experiences and more meaningful faith conversations than they typically experience in their busy, connected lives.
5. Academic Benefits of Tech-Free Time
Improved Critical Thinking
Unlike algorithmic online content that often reinforces existing beliefs, real-world experiences at camp challenge children to think critically and solve authentic problems. Whether it's figuring out how to set up a campsite in the rain or navigating group dynamics during team challenges, campers constantly exercise their critical thinking muscles.
Better Information Retention
Neurological research suggests that experiential learning – learning by doing – creates stronger neural pathways than passive consumption of information. The hands-on learning that happens at camp helps children retain information more effectively than screen-based education alone.
From learning to identify native plants on a hike to understanding the physics of a zipline through direct experience, camp provides countless opportunities for experiential learning that sticks with children long after they return home.
Development of Practical Skills
In our digital age, many children lack opportunities to develop basic practical skills. At Camp Tekoa, children learn everything from how to build a fire and cook outdoors to how to care for their living space and manage their belongings without parental assistance.
How Camp Tekoa Promotes Healthy Tech Disconnection
At Camp Tekoa, we don't just take away technology – we replace it with something better. Our diverse activity offerings ensure that every child finds engaging alternatives to screen time that match their interests and abilities.
Our waterfront activities include swimming, paddle boating, and the popular lake zipline. Land adventures feature our 40-foot climbing tower, high ropes course, and hiking trails. Creative campers enjoy arts and crafts, talent shows, and campfire skits. For the spiritually curious, we offer meaningful devotions, discussions with pastors, and quiet reflection spaces.
Adventure camps provide even more exciting alternatives to screens, with options like whitewater rafting, rock climbing, horseback riding, and caving expeditions. These experiences provide the excitement and novelty that many children seek from digital entertainment, while building real-world skills and confidence.
Tips for Parents to Implement Tech Breaks at Home
While a week or two at camp provides tremendous benefits, children need regular tech breaks throughout the year. Here are some strategies for families looking to reduce screen dependence:
1. Create Tech-Free Zones and Times
Designate certain spaces in your home (like the dinner table and bedrooms) as tech-free zones. Similarly, establish tech-free times, such as the hour before bedtime or Sunday afternoons. These boundaries help create space for family connection and alternative activities.
2. Offer Compelling Alternatives
Rather than simply limiting screen time, provide engaging alternatives that match your child's interests. Stock your home with art supplies, board games, sports equipment, building materials, and books. Plan regular outdoor adventures, even if it's just to a local park or nature trail.
3. Model Healthy Technology Use
Children learn more from what we do than what we say. Examine your own technology habits and be willing to disconnect alongside your children. Put your phone away during family meals, be fully present during conversations, and demonstrate healthy boundaries with your own devices.
4. Set Clear Expectations and Involve Children in Planning
Instead of imposing tech limits without explanation, discuss the "why" behind tech-free times and involve children in creating family technology guidelines. When children understand the reasoning and have input into the rules, they're more likely to cooperate.
Finding Balance in a Digital World
At Camp Tekoa, we recognize that technology is an integral part of modern life, bringing many benefits and opportunities. Our goal isn't to demonize technology but to help children develop a healthy relationship with digital tools – using them purposefully rather than being controlled by them.
The benefits of disconnecting – physical vitality, mental clarity, social connection, spiritual growth, and academic advantage – empower children to engage more fully with both the digital and physical worlds. By experiencing life beyond screens, children gain perspective on technology's proper place in a balanced, meaningful life.
As one camper eloquently put it: "At first I was worried about not having my phone at camp, but by the end of the week, I didn't even miss it. I was having too much fun with real people doing real things to even think about social media."
Ready to Help Your Child Disconnect and Thrive?
Camp Tekoa offers multiple summer camp options for children ages 6-17, from day camps to overnight experiences and specialized adventure programs. Our registration is now open, with various weeks available from June through early August.
Financial assistance is available through our scholarship program, and we're pleased to announce that in 2025, we've partnered with generous donors to provide 20 full-tuition scholarships for campers affected by Hurricane Helene.
Visit CampTekoa.org to explore our programs and register, or call us at (828) 692-6516 to learn more about how Camp Tekoa can help your child experience the transformative benefits of disconnecting from technology and connecting with what matters most.
In a world increasingly dominated by screens, giving your child the gift of unplugged time may be one of the most valuable investments you can make in their development and well-being.