Our kids are increasingly spending more and more time in front of screens. Pandemic lockdowns forced kids to adjust to online learning and their smartphones were their only socialization for a large chunk of time. Even with things returning to normal, the effects of screen dependent children are being seen across the globe.
Studies have shown associations between smartphone usage and increased levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. Parents and teachers fight a daily battle to get kids to take breaks away from screens. One way that makes this disconnection a little easier is summer camp. Many camps either don’t allow technology or they have limited service. Therefore, this is the perfect opportunity to do a reset.
A recent study in the academic journal Computers in Human Behavior found that youth who did not have access to their devices for a five-day period during an overnight outdoor education camp displayed increases in understanding social cues. Being able to completely disconnect and reconnect with other kids face-to-face provides benefits to a child's social development as well as overall health and happiness.
Children benefit from having a screen-free summer for a variety of reasons:
Physical activity. Too much screen time can lead to negative health outcomes such as obesity, poor posture, and eye strain. Encouraging children to engage in physical activities outdoors can help improve their physical health and overall well-being.
Social interaction. Screens can often isolate children from social interaction with their peers and family members. By taking a break, children can develop stronger relationships with those around them and learn to communicate more effectively.
Creativity. Screen time can limit a child's imagination and creativity. Putting down screens gives children more opportunities to engage in imaginative play, explore their interests, and develop their creativity.
Mental health. Too much screen time has been linked to negative effects on mental health, such as increased anxiety and depression. By having a screen-free summer, children can reduce stress and learn to cope with boredom in healthy ways.
Nature connection. Many children spend less time outdoors when they are using screens, which can impact their connection to nature. Children can engage in outdoor activities, explore nature, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
What summer camp is best for my child?
“Summer camp is a great way to help your child disconnect,” says Jessica Miller Switzer, Executive Director of the Alberta Camping Association. “Most camps are out of cell range and/or ban devices. They offer a range of other activities to engage children in outdoor settings.”
The best way to ensure a great camp experience is to find an accredited camp that offers activities that are of interest to your teen. Look for an Alberta Camping Association (ACA) accreditation logo which means quality, safe, and healthy experiences are offered at the camp that displays it.
Here are just a few ACA accredited camps who offer some great programs.
Interested in horses? If your teen loves horses, check out Pioneer Ranch, Pioneer Lodge, Camp Warwa, Camp Evergreen, Teen Time of Edmonton, and Circle Square Ranch.
Want to learn to sail? Sailing seems like a coastal activity, but it’s a camp activity at Camp Kasota West and Camp Bonaventure.
Looking for overnight outdoor expeditions? If you really want to pry your teen away from their screen, send them on a multi-day outdoor expedition! Camp Chief Hector, Company of Adventurers, Camp Valaqua and Frontier Lodge are just a few camps that have epic expedition camps available for the adventurous camper.
When it comes to choosing summer camps, parents can be confident in selecting a camp accredited by the ACA. This designation means that the camp delivers safe, high-quality facilities and programming.
Parents can know with a simple glance if a camp is operating at the highest quality caliber – they simply have to look for the logo!
The ACA Accredited logo means quality, safe, and healthy experiences are offered at the camp that displays it.
Overall, a screen-free summer can provide children with valuable opportunities to engage in physical activities, social interaction, creativity, and nature connection, all of which can contribute to their overall well-being and development.
The Alberta Camping Association is dedicated to promoting, organizing and advancing camps in Alberta. For more information, contact 1-780-427-6605, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.albertacamping.com.
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