Camp lessons for us all

The value of camp goes beyond fellowship and learning. It gives both children and adults experiences that focus on doing. Adult learning theory shows us that the more we practice skills and engage in solving problems, the more we retain and own what we learn.

Besides fellowship, camp builds community. This happens through those shared experiences which can involve working through challenges together and participating in rituals. These activities can lead to friendships and partnerships in childhood that can sometimes be lifelong.

Another benefit of the camp experience is the opportunity for creativity. Creativity involves both choice and decision making. Confidence is built when we can choose and have choices. Even if our decisions are not always the right ones, we can build autonomy. This provides the “proof” that we can make decisions and that it is not only okay to make mistakes, but it is the way we learn.

Part of confidence building is engaging in risk-taking but at the same time differentiating it from risky behavior. At camp we are exposed to and encouraged to try new activities: trying out for sports, engaging in different games and exercises and tasting new foods. Camp encourages trying and counselors are there to give feedback and support. We learn the value of resilience, the ability to bounce back from challenging situations.

Most importantly, camp can teach us empathy, understanding another’s point of view or way of doing things. Camp may be the first exposure that children have of seeing different views than those they learned at home.

The skill of empathetic listening is a vital skill for managers, supervisors and leaders and, really, all of us. It speaks to working towards understanding and unity and reducing our biases.

There is a great article and commentary on Chabad.org by Rabbi Mendy Kaminker and Rabbi Mordechai Lightstone. They offer enjoyment, entertainment and education complete with photos and commentary in their article 12 Reasons Why Sending Your Children to Jewish Summer Camp Is the Most Important Thing You Can Do This Summer. The 12 reasons are BECAUSE: “1. they serve gefilte fish, 2. a proud Jew is a healthy Jew, 3. it’s time to get physical….4. and spiritual, 5. no matter where you are in the world, there’s a Jewish camp nearby, 6. what’s a summer without tons of fun? 7. let’s admit it, you also need a break, 8. they learn about the holidays . . . 9. there will be plenty of camp plays, 10.the camp counselors are amazing, 11. they will come home happy! 12. immediately begin counting down for next year.”

In the learning laboratory of camp children as well as adults can benefit at any age. Not only do we benefit, but so do the others with whom we interact and cross paths along the way.

PATRICIA RASKIN, owner of Raskin Resources Productions, is an award-winning radio producer, business owner and leader. She has served on the board of directors of Temple Emanu-El, in Providence. Her “Positive Living with Patricia Raskin” podcast can be heard on voiceamerica.com.