Keep Camp in Summer

4 Jul 2009

When President Obama proposed his plans for reforming America's schools last April, I wrote an op-ed because his strategy included extending the school day and school calendar. I have to assume he's never been to camp, because anyone who has knows how pivotal it is to a child's social education and positive youth development.

For the non-camp people - or if you would like affirmation and/or research to back your own anecdotal experience - click here to read my article, "Keep Camp in Summer," which was published in Newsday on July 5.

I would personally love to hear what you think and will also share your thoughts with the folks at the American Camp Association who are passionate about providing a camp experience for every child.

Posted by Marla Coleman on Saturday, July 4, 2009 at 11:43 AM | 0 TrackBacks

1 Comment

Bravo! I loved your article!
I believe extending the school day & year parallels the thought of giving more homework equals smarter children & better grades. Both of which I strongly oppose because it's simply not proven to be true. Your article holds true to EVERYTHING I firmly believe children get out of having a wonderful camp experience. Thank you for writing it as it should be read by all.

Lucy | July 6, 2009 9:56 PM | Reply

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“You are the bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.” -Kahlil Gibran

About Campfire Stories

“Even in an age of computer games and electronic toys, you can’t beat a good story – especially when it is offered by a caring adult.” So said William Bennett, author of “The Book of Virtues,” prompting me to reflect on all the stories I have seen unfold over my years of working with children and families (About Marla) and to realize that I could use many of these as examples of what works and what doesn’t work when it comes to raising resilient, independent, self-disciplined, and happy children. With the backdrop of current news, societal trends, and the latest research, I seek to prompt the best parenting decisions to help parents nurture productive, connected children who can navigate the world on their own. Not surprisingly, the campfire metaphor is ideal, since the camp experience itself is so conducive to building these youth development assets. So please join the conversation, either by commenting on a post that resonates or riles, or by e-mailing me with comments or ideas at blog@MarlaColeman.com.

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