Keeping Kids Engaged This Summer: The Case for Day Camp

Growing up in a suburb of Toronto with a predominantly European community, we didn’t hear much about “going off to camp”. Most of our moms stayed at home to raise us; the only consideration over the summer holidays was how late we’d be able to play outside before our parents started hollering about our bedtimes.

However, as times changed and cultural norms shifted, one by one, our mothers returned (or entered) the workforce. By then, many of us were old enough to care for ourselves during the day, but a handful were whisked away to camp for the summer.

It sounded magical.

A chance to meet new people and form lasting friendships. An opportunity to develop a sense of responsibility and pride in oneself. A fun way to learn new skills and build confidence. I promised myself then and there that when I had children, I would do everything in my power to provide them with a summer camp experience.
Of course, I have two boys who are now the perfect age for summer camp. But, being a mom, I also realize that not all kids are ready for an away-from-home experience. My oldest, who still has a touch of social anxiety, and my youngest, who has not yet learned to control his impulses, would not necessarily make the best candidates for full-fledged overnight camp. But what if there was an alternative – a summer camp that allowed kids to absorb the benefits of camp during the day, while allowing them to sleep in their own bed at night?

Friends, I’ve found the answer: Day camp! 

Day camp is a great option for young children to get a feel for a camp experience without traveling too far from home. Day camps encourage kids to try new things, develop skills, and foster positive social and emotional growth when interacting with other kids their own age. They often offer a broad range of activities or specialize in one or two niches, allowing children to develop their interests in a fun and supportive environment. At the end of the summer, campers depart with life-changing memories, growth and accomplishment and may feel ready to attend overnight camp the next summer. (Fingers crossed!)

Sounds like something you’d like to try? Introducing Muskoka Woods CITYCAMP.
Muskoka Woods, an exclusive overnight summer camp located on Lake Rosseau, is bringing its premium mobile day camp, CITYCAMP, to neighbourhoods across the Greater Toronto Area. Kids turning 6-12 years grow, learn, laugh and, most of all, have unforgettable FUN. The camps come complete with huge water slides and activities such as archery, skateboarding, bazooka ball, teambuilding, arts and more. Best of all, an ever-changing variety of creativity-boosting activities make every day new and exciting.

In a nutshell, CITYCAMP is about creating a real overnight camp experience in a day camp format. That’s why the camp is divided into three “cabin groups” led by Muskoka Woods’ best and brightest counsellors.

This year, both my boys will be attending a week at Muskoka Woods CITYCAMP. They can try their hand at laser tag, race through tunnels in an inflatable obstacle course or explore their creative side with culinary arts! I’m hoping the experience will inspire them to step out of their comfort zone, try new things and realize their potential with the support of their peers.
If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, do check to see if there’s a CITYCAMP location near you! CITYCAMP locations are in kid-friendly environments in a growing number of neighbourhoods from Stouffville to Burlington.

Tell me: Have you sent your children to day camp or summer camp? I’d love to hear your experience!

This post is sponsored by Muskoka Woods. The opinions on this blog, as always, are my own.