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Pros and Cons of a Sleepaway Camp

Sleepaway camp for some is a rite of passage and many can’t imagine their adolescent lives without it. Days spent completely outdoors, endless swims in cold lakes, and many late nights talking to bunkmates that became lifelong friends.

While many families opt for day camps, sleepaway camps offer something a bit different. We’ve listed some pros and cons so you can figure out if this summer getaway is right for your child.

Pros

  • Increased Community Building: Your kids are sharing cabin space with a half dozen others, and they quickly learn how to live cooperatively.
  • Lasting Friendships: When you spend all day, everyday for a whole summer with your
    bunkmates, your child is likely to walk away with friendships that won’t ever fade away.
  • Increased Independence: Most kids that go to sleepaway camp return home far more
    confident and with higher self-esteem than before they left home.
  • Disconnected: Many sleepaway camps don’t allow use of cell phones and the internet. This gives your child the opportunity to learn all of the ways they can have fun and learn without being plugged in.

Cons

  • Separation Anxiety: It’s tough to be away from your family and friends. Only the parents can make the right decision on whether their child is ready and willing to do this.
  • Age: Some kids might not be ready at 7 years old for sleepaway camp, but others definitely are. Again, this decision is best made by the caregivers.
  • Medical Concerns: If your child needs regular medical attention, there may not be facilities or professionals within proximity of your child’s sleepaway camp.
  • Cost: It’s no secret that sleepaway camps are much pricier than day camps.

Whether you choose day camps or sleepaway camps, taking advantage of Simplified’s Family Assistant services can help you figure out which is the best fit for your child.

 

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in January 2018 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness in 2021.