Did you know that one of the best ways to encourage your children to learn, grow and thrive is by enrolling them in activity-based camps or classes? Summer and after school programs are excellent ways to keep your child busy and engaged during the summer months. Here are a few reasons these programs are so beneficial for young kids.

5 Reasons to Enroll Your Child in Summer Camps and Classes

1. Activity and Exercise

Child healthcare professionals have discovered that during both day and resident camps, children met or exceeded the daily physical activity guidelines recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Enrolling your child in summer or after school programs gives them a chance to experience fun physical activities like swimming or gymnastics. Summer is the perfect time to encourage kids to be more active!

2. Social and Friendship Skills

Summer classes can help your shy or unsure child learn to socialize with other kids and form new friendships. Summer activities can help provide a low-pressure way for children to meet new people in a safe environment by playing with other kids in group settings. Socializing will help them develop traits like leadership and communication skills.

3. Learning and Development

Summer programs can teach children how to be independent, self-sufficient, and confident. Children can participate in activities that stimulate their imagination, creativity, resilience, and help them learn new things. This is a great opportunity for them to explore new interests or hobbies that might not be available during the school year. These new experiences will allow them to build confidence in themselves as well as their abilities in the future.

4. Positive Role Models

Camp counselors, activity instructors, and teachers can make a positive, lasting impression on your child. Through observation and interaction with positive role models, kids can learn fairness, trustworthiness, respectfulness and other beneficial character qualities.

5. Memorable Experiences

Kids can make memories that they will cherish for a lifetime because they are free to be themselves and make friends while bonding over shared interests. Summer camps can have a positive impact on children's self-esteem, as well as their ability to deal with complex emotions like grief or anger in healthy ways. The American Camp Association (ACA) says that children who attend summer camps show greater empathy, improved social skills, and better behavior at home than those who don't. 

Summer programs are an exciting opportunity for your child to grow and learn in safe, nurturing environments. The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester Inc. encourages all children of all ages and abilities to discover their passion for gymnastics by offering inclusive summer programs. Their caring coaches teach enriching gymnastics and dance after school programs in a safe, fun way for families in the Penfield, NY, area. Visit them online or call their friendly staff at (585) 388-8686 to learn more.