Why choose camp?

Because I thrive at planning and I'm an all star at worrying; summer camp has been on my mind.

Or more accurate;  the fact that there may not be summer camp.

And I read the articles about camps not happening.

And then I read the comments.

(Because let's admit, the comments are often the best part)

And then I get angry at the comments.

So here's the thing. 

For those of you saying that the poor wealthy parents will now need to find ways to occupy their children for the summer instead of playing tennis at their club have CLEARLY never attended summer camp.

So let me clarify things for the ignorant. 

Camp is not only for the wealthy.

There are all sorts of camps and all kinds of financial assistance available.

Day camps, rec camps, YMCA camps, camps for kids with disabilities, camps for cancer survivors, grieving children, bible study camps, boy/girl scout camps and yes, good ol' regular overnight camps. 

Camp doesn't "ONLY" give us parents a break from our kids but gives our kids a break from us parents.

No nagging for 2, 3 1/2 or 7 whole weeks. 

That's right. They get to mismatch their clothes, forget to brush their teeth occasionally, use a bath towel for the beach, not brush their hair, and eat an extra cookie if there is enough to go around. 

They are learning to be independent.

They are making choices on their own. 

Do I want to play tennis or learn to sail? Do I need to ask my Mom which one she wants me to do? No I do not! 

They are learning to make their own bed, use a broom, and figuring out their daily schedule without a parent helping out. 

They are learning about social situations. 

They are making new friends, figuring out how to mesh with someone they may not like so much, learning about respect and kindness, meeting boys and girls of all ages.

They are in a brotherhood. Or sisterhood. Or a cancer survivorhood. 

They are in a place of safety and security where everyone is under one bubble.

One bubble where it is not only allowed, but encouraged, to be yourself. 

And to try new things.

And that it is perfectly okay if you fail.

And that it is perfectly wonderful to see you smile when you succeed.

They are stepping away from their comfort zones.

The kid who only likes video games is learning how to waterski.

The kid who only plays soccer is now a lead in the camp play.

The shy child is now part of a bunk.

The kid who needs to know the world doesn't revolve around them has learned to be on a team.

Kids get to stay up late and get dirty.

They unplug.

They step away from home and learn that they can be the person they are meant to be.

So is this all just for us parents to get a break for 7 weeks?

We do this FOR our kids.

And sure, the break doesn't hurt.