Why Your Child Should Try Overnight Camp Before They Think They're Ready
Parents often tell us the same story: "My child says they're not ready for overnight camp yet." It's a common refrain, usually accompanied by concerns about homesickness, independence, or anxiety about the unknown. But what if waiting until your child feels "completely ready" for camp means missing out on the very experiences that help develop confidence and resilience?
When Hurricane Helene swept through Western North Carolina in September 2024, it left a path of devastation that many communities are still working to overcome. Camp Tekoa, in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Hendersonville, faced its own significant challenges in the storm's aftermath. Yet, through the darkness of those difficult days emerged a powerful story of resilience, community support, and renewed purpose.
In an era where teen mental health has become a national crisis, parents are searching for meaningful solutions that go beyond traditional therapy and medication. While professional mental health care remains essential for many young people, there's growing recognition that preventive approaches – experiences that build resilience, strengthen identity, and foster healthy relationships – play a crucial role in supporting adolescent wellbeing.
How Summer Camp Builds Resilience in Teens: Preparing Rising 9th Graders for High School Success
The transition from middle school to high school represents one of the most significant milestones in a teenager's academic and social journey. Rising 9th graders face unprecedented challenges: increased academic rigor, complex social dynamics, greater independence expectations, and the mounting pressure to make decisions that will impact their future. While parents often focus on academic preparation through tutoring or summer school, there's a powerful alternative that addresses the whole person: summer camp.