Shannon Dean
From Screens to S’mores: Why Camp Matters for Kids
Parents sometimes think of summer camp as a nostalgic throwback—s’mores, songs and mosquito spray. But in today’s world of screens, stress and social pressure, that campfire glow is doing something revolutionary.
When parents send kids off for a classic camp experience, they might not realize kids are also being enrolled in a hands-on workshop for life. While kayaks still glide across the bay, spring and summer camps are a strategic antidote to some of the most pressing challenges facing kids today.
Think of camp not just as a vacation, but as a kind of intervention. In an
era of smartphone addiction, rising anxiety and shortening attention spans, the camp environment is uniquely equipped to deliver a dose of what children are missing most.
The Digital Detox: Many camps are intentionally “unplugged” so kids enjoy the absence of pings, dings and endless scrolling. In a world where the average teen spends most hours on media, this isn’t a quirky policy. It’s a neurological reset.
A study published in Computers in Human Behavior found that even five days at a device-free outdoor camp significantly improves children’s ability to read nonverbal emotional cues. Without a screen in their faces, the kids were better able to notice visual details, such as a stifled laugh, a hesitant smile or a posture of inclusion.
“It appears that live and in-person interactions are ultimately more fulfilling and satisfying,” says Jyothsna Bhat, Psy.D, clinical psychologist and mental health advocate. “This is particularly true as we look at the roles that empathy and social reciprocity play.”
Kids with fewer digital distractions return home not just with stories, but with sharper attention spans and a renewed ability to connect. Once kids reconnect with the real world—and each other—another shift begins: their stress levels start to drop.
The Anxiety Antidote: Many children live with an undercurrent of anxiety. The pressures of school, social media and an overscheduled life (among other things) can leave them feeling overwhelmed and on edge. Camp provides a sanctuary.
Quick Wins from Camp: What Kids Learn
The Power of Boredom
• Without screens, kids get creative.
• Boredom sparks problem-solving and imagination.
Risk Increases Confidence
• Climbing walls, kayaking and performing skits teaches courage.
• Small, supported risks build lifelong resilience.
Friendship 101
• Sharing meals, challenges and space teaches empathy.
• Kids practice negotiation, compromise and leadership.
Mistakes Encourage Responsibility
• Lost socks, weather setbacks and group dynamics provide realworld lessons.
• Mistakes become learning moments without any high stakes consequences at home or school.
Nature is an Excellent Teacher
• Sunlight, fresh air and green spaces naturally lower stress levels.
• Kids learn observation, patience and curiosity from the outdoors.
Camp is a masterclass in rhythm and reliability. Daily schedules typically follow a predictable and consistent pattern, which is profoundly calming for an anxious mind. There’s no room for the constant “what’s next?” anxiety that might be experienced at home.
The mental health benefits of outdoor physical activity are undeniable. Research from the University of Michigan shows that group-based activity in natural settings—exactly what many camps provide—is linked to lower cortisol levels and reductions in anxiety. The combination of sunlight, movement and green space acts as a natural mood stabilizer.
“A lot of the current generation are so overscheduled with extracurriculars and other things that they’re not having unstructured time outside,” says Dr. Rosanna Breaux, Ph.D. “Time outdoors or in nature has been linked to better mental health and improved mood, as well as reductions in depression, anxiety and stress.” When kids are calmer and more centered, they’re ready for something even more transformative: challenge.
Teaching “Hard Fun”: Some parents are guilty of clearing every obstacle from their child’s path. Camps are in the business of carefully placing them there. This is the philosophy of “hard fun.”
Think of kids staring up at a 40foot rock wall. It’s intimidating. They might want to quit. But with the encouragement of peers and a patient instructor, they take one step at a time. Reaching the top—or even making it halfway—unleashes a euphoric sense of accomplishment that no effortless victory provides.
This is the essence of grit and perseverance. A University of Pennsylvania study found that grit is a more reliable predictor of success than IQ. Camp is a grit-building factory. Whether it’s mastering the tricky fingerings of a new song on the guitar, lighting a fire in challenging conditions, or resolving a disagreement with a cabin-mate, camp is a series of
real-world challenges that teach kids they can struggle and succeed.
“Camps that make kids… stash the earbuds, get a little dirty and even a little frustrated while having fun and making new friends, are the kinds of camps that offer children the best of what they need,” says Dr. Michael Ungar, author of The Limits of Resilience.
These small triumphs don’t just build confidence; they prepare kids for reallife responsibility.
Life Skills 101: Camp is a training ground for executive functioning—the mental skills that include working memory, flexible thinking, self-control and problem-solving, all essential for adult life.
At camp, there’s no parent to remember water bottles, find lost socks or remind kids to be on time. Responsibility shifts to the kids. They must keep track of their belongings (working memory), adapt when rain moves the picnic indoors (flexible thinking), and resist the impulse to grab the last pancake as they take turns (self-control). A child who forgets to hang up a wet swimsuit will discover a cold surprise the next morning—a natural consequence more effective than a parental reminder. Kids learn to show up on time because if they’re late for the canoe trip, the canoe leaves without them. These are low-stakes, high-impact lessons in personal responsibility.
So, when you wave goodbye at dropoff, consider it a valuable investment in your child. You’re not just providing a fun summer experience; you’re providing a rare opportunity to learn and practice life skills.
Camp provides space to unplug, explore, learn, succeed and for kids to remember who they are when no one’s watching. v
Shannon Dean is a freelance writer.
This summer, Bcat Threads offers three unique, hands-on fashion camps designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and inspire young designers of all skill levels. Our Fashion Camp (ages 7–11) is a fun, playful introduction to style. Campers will explore fabrics, create original designs, try beginner sewing, dress up, and take part in exciting runway challenges—all while building confidence and creativity. For older creatives, our Fashion Design Camp (ages 9–14) dives deeper into the design process. Campers will learn sewing, draping, and design fundamentals while creating wearable pieces and bringing their ideas to life from concept to construction. Our Sustainable Fashion Camp (ages 10+) is perfect for teens who want to create with purpose. Campers will reimagine and repurpose materials, turning “old” into one-of-a-kind pieces through sewing and no-sew techniques. With a focus on mindful fashion and creative freedom, students will design projects that reflect their personal style while learning how to make a positive impact on the planet. All camps are beginner-friendly, supportive, and designed to help each camper express their individuality through fashion.
Dates & Times: June-August, 9am-2pm M-F
Ages: 7-15 yrs.
Address: 7290 Navajo Rd. Suite 103, San Carlos
Phone: 619-840-3486
Email: brookecnevins@gmail.com
Web: www.bcatthreads.com
Rates & Discounts: $480, all supplies included, (lunch is not provided) SIGN
www.facebook.com/bcatthreads
Helen Woodward Animal Center
Summer Critter Camp: Where kids connect with Animals
Dive into the ultimate summer adventure at Critter Camp at Helen Woodward Animal Center! Hosted at our brand-new Humane Education Campus, kids will explore habitat-themed classrooms, animal play spaces, and meet exciting new animal ambassadors. Each day is filled with hands-on animal encounters, creative crafts, and high-energy games that spark curiosity and compassion. Campers will enjoy exciting weekly themes like Amazing Animal Athletes and Bioscience and Beyond, with new discoveries every week.
Summer Critter Camp Experience
• Hands-on animal encounters
• Creative crafts and themed activities
• Flexible scheduling—join for a day or full week (FREE shirt with weekly registration! Discounts, extended care, lunch options, and scholarships are available.
Dates & Times: June 1–August 21 (9:00 am–3:00 pm)
Ages: 4–13 yrs.
Rates: Daily–$102 / Weekly–$408
Address: 6447 Helen Woodward Way, Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067
Phone: 858-756-4117
Email: education@animalcenter.org
Website: www.animalcenter.org/ programs-services/education/ summer-critter-camp SIGN UP NOW!
www.facebook.com/hwaceducation
Animal Encounters —
Multiple hands-on animal encounters inspiring curiosity and compassion
Creative & Engaging —
Seasonal-inspired crafts & activities reinforcing learning and teamwork
Daily Themes —
Animal-focused daily themes blending science and hands-on fun
Flexible Options —
Join for one day or the entire week (weekly registrations receive a shirt & the 5TH day FREE!)
June 1—August 21 | 9AM—3PM
Pre-K—8TH Grade
Camp Carmel Creek is on a mission to fill childhood summers with joy, curiosity, adventure and community. Our campers can expect to have all the experiences they love in a day camp, while getting to choose the activities they are most passionate about doing each day. They’ll be immersed in a highly specialized program that allows for project based learning, skill building, and personal growth. We provide flexible scheduling, a state-of-the-art safe facility and top-tier staff and camp leadership. We want to make your summer planning a little easier - campers won’t even need to pack a lunch! We also offer half and full day specialty camps for Middle Schoolers including, theatre, architecture, robotics, sports and more!
Dates & Times: June 16 − August 8, 9 am − 4:30 pm
Ages: 5 – 14
Area: Carmel Valley
Address: 11860 Carmel Creek Rd.
Phone: 858-704-3700
Email: adam@campcarmelcreek.com
Website: www.campcarmelcreek.com
www.instagram.com/campcarmelcreek SIGN UP NOW!
SeaWorld San Diego
SeaWorld San Diego Week-Long Resident and Career Camps
Week-Long Resident & Career Camps
Become an expert on aquatic life as you immerse yourself in the behind-the-scenes world of animal care. Resident and Career Camps offer exciting experiences, including but not limited to:
• A hands-on look at animal care careers
• Offsite excursions
• Interacting with a bottlenose dolphin
• Meeting veterinarians and veterinary technicians
• Learning from the Rescue Team
• Enjoying park rides, shows, and attractions
Camp fees include lodging, meals, field trips, two SeaWorld Camp T-shirts, a water bottle, and transportation to and from the San Diego airport or train station on arrival and departure dates. Pick the Resident Camp that best fits your interests and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Dates & Times: The program runs for 5 days, beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday and ending at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, select weeks June through August.
Ages: 5-12 years
Rates & Discounts: SeaWorld Annual Pass Member Discount
Location: SeaWorld San Diego
Address: 500 SeaWorld Dr., San Diego, CA 92109
Phone: 619-222-4SEA
Email: SWCADVCP@SeaWorld.com
Website: www.seaworld.com/san-diego www.facebook.com/seaworldsandiego
HECD Research Camp
One week summer camp for 4-5 year olds as part of a UCSD Research Program
This is a research study being conducted to develop more sophisticated and passive methods to collect data on children’s environmental, social, and biobehavioral interactions in a naturalistic classroom. This research study has a unique format where we collect data in the form of a weeklong (5 days, Monday through Friday) camp. Each day of camp will be about 6 hours long, the typical length of a school day. During each day, your child will be greeted by their group leader and other childcare staff at drop-off, around 8:30/8:45am, and we will do a morning welcome exercise while we set up the passive data collection devices. Those include a microphone that we clip on their camp shirt, a fit-bit like arm band that goes on their wrist, and the classroom is equipped with high definition cameras.
The children will then begin their day curriculum, which will include ageappropriate learning activities, ample play-learning activities, rest time, and stretch/bathroom breaks. We provide lunch, snacks, small prizes, and water. During the 5-day camp, your child will also participate in one-on-one cognitive assessments, this is how they earn their prizes each day. These assessments test your child’s current academic abilities, such as language development, numbers, and memory. We are also interested in their music and singing abilities, such as rhythm, as well as empathy. Parent’s or approved guardians are welcome to stay during camp days, they are also welcome to drop their child off for the day with our trained and background checked research staff and volunteers. Camp takes place on the UCSD campus. You can earn up to $180 for you and your child’s participation.
Dates & Times: Starting July 6th. One-week camps every week until Sept.
Ages: 4 and 5
Rates & Discounts: Free! Earn up to $180.
Area: La Jolla UCSD campus
SIGN UP NOW!
Applied Physics & Mathematics Bldg UCSD, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA 92093
Email: scdowling@ucsd.edu
Website: www.ucsdedlab.org/currentstudies
SAN DIEGO COUNTY’S
Best Summer Camps
Summer is almost here, offering an awesome opportunity for kids to explore new interests, dabble in unique activities and learn a variety of skills in a fun and supportive environment. Summer provides kids a fun break in the normal routine to do things they don’t have time for when they’re in school. Encourage them explore, discover, dream and play! Here are camp programs that can’t wait to help your kids make summer memories.
ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS
Summer Critter Camp at Helen Woodward
Ages 4–13; Rancho Santa Fe June 1–Aug. 21
www.animalcenter.org/education
Soak up summer with interactive animal fun in themes like Bioscience & Beyond and Amazing Animal Athletes. Spots are limited; don’t miss out!
Birch Aquarium Summer Camps
Ages 4–13; La Jolla
June 15–Aug. 7
www.aquarium.ucsd.edu/learn/ camps/summer-camps
Explore underwater worlds, play games, create crafts and meet ocean creatures in fun day camps led by experienced educators.
SeaWorld San Diego Camps Grades 1–12; Mission Bay June through August www.seaworld.com/san-diego/ educational-programs
Fun, educational day or resident camps where kids enjoy close-up animal experiences, park rides, shows and learning activities with trained counselors.
YMCA Raintree Ranch Horse Camp {see Overnight Camps}
Lisa Gipson
TRADITIONAL (variety) DAY CAMPS
Camp Carmel Creek
Grades K–8; Carmel Valley
June 15–Aug. 7
www.campcarmelcreek.com
We fill childhood summers with joy, curiosity, adventure and community.
Camp Carmel Creek is a unique specialty camp with a classic camp feel.
Children’s Museum of Discovery
Ages 4–8; Escondido
June 15–Aug. 14
www.visitcmod.org/events/summercamp-3
Each camp day with trained staff includes access to museum exhibits, hands-on engineering and paleontology exploration, and opportunities to make new friends.
City of Poway Summer Camps
Ages 6–17
June 8–Aug. 7
www.poway.org/classes
Kids love choosing from camp programs like photography, cooking, science, skateboarding, sewing, archery, fishing and much more. Full- and half-day programs available.
Farm Camp at Coastal Roots Farm
TK–Grade 8; Encinitas
June 8–Aug. 14
www.coastalrootsfarm.org/farm-camp
Spend summer on the farm, exploring the natural world through cooking, crafts, science experiments, harvesting, singing and more—all guided by universally meaningful Jewish values.
Linda Vista Innovation Center Summer Camp
Grades 6–10; Linda Vista
June 29–July 24
www.sdcoe.net/lvic-camp
Middle school and high school students can choose popular handson activities such as eSports, cooking, costume design, drone technology, art and creative sustainability. Taught by credentialed educators.
Rock Academy Camp
Grades K–6; Point Loma
May 26-July 31
www.therockacademy.org
Full-day camps for kids who will love exploring a variety of activities (sports, science, art and adventure) in a Christcentered environment. Open to all San Diegans.
Steve & Kate’s Camp
Ages: 4–12; Sorrento Valley
June 1–Aug. 7
www.steveandkatescamp.com
Kids choose fun activities daily: sewing, coding, maker crafts, robotics, sports, filming and more! Buy any number of days to use any time. Lunch, snacks and all hours (8 am–6 pm) included.
Summer @ The Rhoades School K–Grade 5; Encinitas
June 15–Aug. 21
www.rhoadesschool.com/student-life/ summer-camp
Campers are immersed in handson activities like science and nature exploration, creative and performing arts, sports and games. A perfect blend of exciting indoor and outdoor adventures!
YMCA Day Camps
Ages 5–13; Countywide
June through August
www.ymcasd.org/camps/day-camp
Kids engage in exciting activities such as robotics, ceramics, karate, gymnastics, Minecraft, flag football, kayaking and tons more. Choose from 15 countywide locations (dates/ programs vary by location).
SPORTS AND SWIMMING
Aqua Pros Swim School
All ages; Clairemont Mesa www.aquapros.org
GRIT Gymnastics Camp
Ages 4–14; Clairemont Mesa June 1–Aug. 7
www.gritgymnasticsclub.com/camps
Join us for week-long camps full of high-energy gymnastics and silly summer fun! Campers enjoy skillbuilding, along with creative games and activities. Full or half days available.
Warrior Kids Camp
Victory MMA and Fitness in Point Loma www.victorygyms.com
Our fun classes teach more than real-life self-defense skills; they also teach discipline, self-confidence and responsibility.
Summer Camps for All Abilities
Find dozens of classes, camps and programs designed specifically for kids, teens and young adults with disabilities or chronic medical conditions at www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/ summer-camps-and-programs/ summer-camp-for-every-kid.
STEM CAMPS
Camp Galileo
Grades K–8; Downtown San Diego
June 8–July 17
www.galileo-camps.com
Our acclaimed curriculum combines STEAM exploration and outdoor fun! Extended care available. CIT program for grades 8–10. Use code: 26SDFamily25 to save $25 per week.
Fleet Science Center STEM Camps
Grades K–8; Balboa Park
June 1–Aug. 7
www.fleetscience.org/events/camps
Our camps offer enriching experiences with a focus on inquiry and innovation. Campers investigate exciting topics such as paleontology, space, geology, biology, robotics and more. Ignite your child’s curiosity!
Model Railroading Summer Camps
Grades TK–12; Balboa Park
June 17–Aug. 7
www.sdmrm.org/summer-camps
All aboard for summer fun! Kids build a model railroad at San Diego Model Railroad Museum, designing layouts, building landscapes and exploring the science behind trains.
San Diego History Center
Summer Camps
Ages 7–11; Balboa Park
July 6–24
www.sandiegohistory.org/camps
Our art and STEM camps turn curiosity into discovery as kids dive into history, art and storytelling through interactive experiences that spark imagination and build confidence.
OVERNIGHT CAMPS
SeaWorld Resident & Career Camps Grades 5–12
(See Animal Encounters)
YMCA Overnight Camps
• Raintree Ranch Horse Camp, Julian
• Camp Surf, Imperial Beach
• Camp Marston, Julian
Ages 7–17; June–August
www.ymcasd.org/camps
We believe all kids deserve the chance to experience the life-changing power of camp. Our unique camps inspire kids to laugh, lead and make lasting friendships in learning environments where they are introduced to outdoor experiences, can nurture their passions and explore new interests.
THEATER AND DANCE
City Ballet Dance Camps
Ages 4–18; Pacific Beach
June 15–July 10
www.cityballet.org/school/intensives/ summer-dance-camps
Perfect for children with a passion for dance. Two-week sessions are offered to fit into busy summer schedules, with a range of age and skill level-appropriate ballet classes.
CSP’s Summer Theatre Camp
Ages 7–14; Escondido
June 22–July 10
www.centerstagesd.com
Center Stage Productions invites young artists to “move it, move it” while creating a live production of the DreamWorks film “Madagascar.” Campers will act, sing, dance and more.
San Diego Junior Theatre Camps
Grades K–12; Balboa Park
June 8–Aug. 7
www.juniortheatre.com/classes/ programs
Spend the summer acting, singing and dancing in fun performance camps, high-energy musical theater intensives, dynamic acting academies and more.
Theatre Camps @ North Coast Rep
Ages 4–19; Solana Beach
June 15–July 31
www.northcoastreptheatreschool.org
Join us for a variety of exciting performance-based theatre camps! Offering one-week, half-day camps for ages 4–8 and two-week, full-day production camps for older kids.
CREATIVE ARTS
BCAT Threads
Fashion Design Camp
Ages 7–15; San Carlos
June through August 7
www.bcatthreads.com
Choose from three hands-on fashion camps that spark creativity, build confidence and inspire young designers. Campers explore fabrics, create original designs, learn to sew and more.
Comic Camps @ Little Fish
Ages 7–18; College Area
June 1–Aug. 7
www.lilfish.us/camps
Little Fish Comic Book Studio camps are specialized, engaging experiences where kids learn the creative process of developing characters and comics, from idea to completed page. Applications can be returned in person, by mail or email.
MCASD Summer Camps
Ages 6–10; La Jolla
July 6–24
https://mcasd.org/events/summercamp-2026
Join MCASD educators for exciting week-long camps where kids create fun art projects inspired by pieces from the museum’s collection and special exhibitions.
ACADEMIC ADVENTURES
HECD Research Camp
Ages 4 & 5; La Jolla (UCSD)
July 6–Sept.
www.ucsdedlab.org/currentstudies
Children engage in age-appropriate learning activities, then earn prizes by participating in one-on-one cognitive assessments, during free, oneweek research study sessions with UC San Diego. Earn up to $180 for participating. Learn more on page 12.
Pacific View Charter: Get Ready for Middle School Incoming 5th & 6th graders
Oceanside
July 20–24 or 27–31
www.pacificview.org
Two one-week sessions to choose from prepare kids for middle school math, reading, social studies and STEM with team-building activities in a supportive environment.
Summer Intensive Camps at The Learning Lighthouse
Grades 1–12; Point Loma
June 8–Aug. 7
www.tllighthouse.com
Prevent summer slide in small groups (or 1:1) that focus on reading, writing and math. Customized sessions target needs in academics and executive functioning. v
