Camp and Year-round School

Camping Magazine, July, 2000 by Paul E. Marsh

Camp Meets Developmental Needs

Camp is successful at meeting the seven developmental needs of adolescence established by the Center for Early Adolescence at the University of North Carolina; the average school is good at meeting only two or three. The seven developmental needs of young adolescents are defined as:

* Positive social interactions with peers and adults

* Structure and clear limits

* Physical activity

* Creative expression

* Competence and achievement

* Meaningful participation in home, school, and community

* Self-definition

Thus, parents send their children to camp for self-development and outdoor experience, as well as for fun.