Kids' holiday camps: why camps are so good for children (and how to prepare your child)

Holiday camps are about much more than just having a week of fun. They also play an important role in children's development.

When children go to camp, they step out of their daily routine. They are away from their familiar surroundings and learn to cope with new situations.

This helps them to become more independent and self-confident.

At camp, children learn, for example, to:

• collaborate with other children
• make new friends
• solve problems independently
• take responsibility

Many camps also organise activities that help children discover new skills.

Think, for example, of:

• sports activities
• creative workshops
• nature activities
• team games

Children often discover talents they didn't even know they had.

In addition, they learn to deal with small challenges. For instance, sleeping away from home without parents, carrying out tasks together or trying new things.

These experiences often give children a huge boost in self-confidence.

For many children, a camp even becomes one of the highlights of the summer. They look forward to it for months and make memories that stay with them for a long time.

The social aspect is equally important. At camp, children often meet new friends from other schools or towns.

These new connections create a sense of belonging and make the experience even more enjoyable.

In short, a holiday camp helps children to:

• become more independent
• discover new skills
• build social connections
• grow in confidence

And that is what makes camps so valuable.

There are many different types of camps for children today, so every child can find a camp that matches their interests.

Sports camps

Sports camps are perfect for active children who love to move.

Activities might include:

• football
• tennis
• dance
• swimming
• gymnastics

Children improve their sports skills while making new friends along the way.

Adventure camps

For children who love adventure, there are camps with activities such as:

• woodland games
• climbing
• kayaking
• scavenger hunts
• survival activities

These camps often focus on nature and teamwork.

Creative camps

Creative children will feel right at home at creative camps.

There they can work on activities like:

• drawing
• painting
• music
• drama
• crafts

These camps spark children's imaginations.

Language and learning camps

Some camps combine fun with learning.

For example:

• language camps
• science camps
• technology camps
• coding camps

Children learn new skills while having fun.

Youth organisation camps

In Belgium, camps run by youth movements such as Scouts, Chiro or KSA are immensely popular.

These camps are known for their strong team spirit, fun games and outdoor adventures in nature.

With so many options available, parents can easily choose a camp that perfectly suits their child's interests.

For many children, their first camp is an exciting milestone. With good preparation, you can make sure your child feels more confident.

Talk about what to expect

Tell your child what camp is like:

• sleeping in a tent or dormitory
• eating together
• playing games
• making new friends

This way, they know what to expect.

Let your child help with packing

Children often enjoy helping to pick out what they bring along.

It also gives them a sense of control.

Pack something from home

A small comfort item from home can help if your child feels a little unsure or homesick.

For example:

• a soft toy
• a photo
• a short note

This can offer great reassurance.

Provide practical camp gear

There are a few items that come in really handy at camp, such as:

• a torch
• a sturdy water bottle
• a raincoat
• a small daypack
• a camp diary

Some parents compile these items on a list or wishlist, so family members can give a practical camping gift.

Platforms like Wish2Share make it simple to gather these wishes and share them with family or friends.

That way, children receive gifts that are not only fun, but also truly useful during camp.

And ultimately, a kids' camp is all about one thing: a week full of adventure, fun and memories that children will cherish forever.