Camp Plays An Integral Part In A Child's Development - Just Ask The President

Online, August 18, 2010 (Newswire.com) - Lexington, MA - The American Camp Association, New England is excited that First Daughter Malia is attending camp for four weeks this summer, according to a recent interview, in which the President announced that his oldest daughter would be joining the millions of children who attend camp each summer.
Camp is essential to the education and development of the whole child, developing authentic relationships, fostering a connection with nature, and encouraging participation in human powered activities. Camp allows children to relax and enjoy just being kids. There is a camp experience for every child, including those residing in the White House.

"Camp professionals all across New England, and throughout the country, are applauding President and Mrs. Obama, as well as Malia, for recognizing the value summer camp holds," says Bette Bussel, the Executive Director of the American Camp Association, New England. "Millions of campers take advantage of a life-changing experience every summer, and we hope that Malia's attendance at camp will send a message to families everywhere that camp can provide a life changing experience and unparalleled educational opportunity for a child."

According to the American Camp Association's Youth Development Outcomes study, conducted in conjunction with Philliber Research Associates and with generous support from Lilly Endowment Inc., 96 percent of campers said that camp helped them make new friends. Ninety-two percent of campers reported that camp helped them feel good about themselves. Correspondingly, parents reported that children gained self-confidence at camp (70 percent) and continued to stay in contact with camp friends (69 percent).

However, camp is not just about making memories and friends. Belonging to the intentional community of summer camp, can help stem summer learning loss and keep children engaged and sharp throughout the summer months. In addition, studies show that interaction with the natural world can help reduce existing stress and help children better respond to future stresses. Camp enables children to take healthy risks in a safe and nurturing environment - developing confidence, self-esteem, independence, and decision making skills. .

To find the right camp experience for your child, visit www.ACANewEngland.org and click on Parents & Public and then on Find A Summer Camp. Or for more information on the value of summer camp, please visit www.CampParents.org.

The American Camp Association, New England, is the region's leading source for "all things summer camp." For more information please visit www.acanewengland.org, or call (781) 541-6080.