Camp Programs Improve Self-Esteem

Guest Post by by Roger and Dagni, Camp Laurel South The primary goal of a traditional summer camp is to enhance the self-esteem of every member of the camp community. Camps do this by offering a wide range of opportunities for campers to grow and gain a true sense of self. Maine camps feature magnificent ball fields and courts where campers discover what it means to be part of a team. Effort, instruction, sportsmanship, and encouragement of others take precedence over wins and losses. Of course, kids love to win…but at camp, it is okay if they don’t always come home with the trophy. Tennis is one of our most popular sports at Camp Laurel South. Everyone learns this lifetime sport, from the ranked beginner to the advanced player working out to make their varsity team. Breathtaking Maine lakes are where campers experience the pride of getting up on water-skis or a wakeboard for the first time. They can learn to sail, canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, too. When a camper, who can be shy at times, performs in a Broadway-style musical or shows a hidden talent in a camper variety show, you can just feel and taste their sense of pride and accomplishment. Whether performing in a gymnastics or dance show, catching a fish for the first time, learning to ride a horse, learning to hit a proper serve, camping outdoors for the first time…camp programs are designed to allow each camper to be proud of what they accomplished. Camp Laurel South is a relationship-centered camp, and it is in those relationships that children connect with their summer home. When we, as directors, go through the cabins each night, we are overjoyed at the kindness and empathy displayed by our campers and incredible counselors. Maine Camps are simply the best. They have the best facilities, the most geographically-diverse group of kids…world-class staff and time-honored traditions. Come see how summer camp in Maine is different!