Much has been written about the rise in loneliness among kids, teens, and adults. Former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy has called loneliness an epidemic, leading to public health issues such as addiction, violence, depression and anxiety. As we become more connected via social media and technology, we find ourselves increasingly alone. In his book Together: the Healing Power of Human Connection in a Sometimes Lonely World, Murthy describes our world as one that emphasizes the individual, leading to a further breakdown of social connections. In children, the impact is severe, as studies have shown that 40% of kids experience mild to moderate loneliness, and 10% feel severely alone. New York Times writer Kathryn Jezer-Morton recently wrote about the challenges of parenting a lonely child – seeing a child feeling left out or apart from a social group is both painful and worrisome. And as we know, it is difficult as a parent to create a friend group or force a social interaction for a child or teen.
So, what do we do? Murthy highlights three factors that help decrease loneliness: relationships, service, and community. Similarly, Jezer-Morton recommends changing the environment and stimuli for kids – expose them to new situations, activities, and people. In other words, they both focus on being with others, giving to others, and finding connection.
Few things accomplish these goals more than overnight camps and teen programs. At camp, kids are surrounded by peers and are encouraged to try new activities, take an appropriate risk, feel the healing power of nature, and hone their social skills in a positive, nurturing, screen-free environment. Not all kids are right for every camp, but there is a camp for every kid. Teen programs like a wilderness trip or cultural immersion encourage community, teamwork, and growth in a new setting or culture. Service trips help teens be part of something bigger than themselves. And all overnight camps and teen programs can help a kid find new friends and take a break from school-year social and academic pressures.
Can camp cure loneliness? I’m not sure, but I know it’s worth a try. Tips on Trips and Camps advisors are here to help your child find the right overnight camp, trip, or academic experience. And maybe feel a little less lonely too.
Secondly, there is a level of comfort in a brother/sister camp that makes for a great benefit. Sometimes one sibling is more hesitant to venture off to camp, while the other is counting down the days. In this situation, it is comforting to know siblings have each other. If there is a bit of typical homesickness in the beginning, the directors can arrange for siblings to see each other. This situation was what my daughter experienced at camp during her second year. Even though she attended camp the previous summer, she was bit homesick at the beginning of her second summer. Luckily, my daughter was able to connect with her younger brother after dinners. This small moment of togetherness helped her quickly overcome her homesickness and instead became immersed in her side of camp. Furthermore, there is a deeper connection and bond that can occur between siblings when at a brother/sister camp. Although each child will inevitably have their own unique experience, they also will bond over shared specialty counselors and evening events. My son and daughter each came home rattling off their favorite meals, comparing favorite counselors, and competing over who swam the most laps for SCOPE, their camp charity event.
There is a sign that hangs in our summer cottage that reads, “If you get lost, come straight back to camp.” The quote is attributed to L.L. Bean, who posted this directive on the wall of his own hunting camp in Northern Maine in the early 1900s. I am reminded of it as the kids go back to school and the memories of camp slowly begin to be replaced by classes, sports commitments, and the rhythms of the fall schedule.
