Sunshine, S’mores and Support: The Growing Trend of Mental Health Care at Camp

The Growing Trend of Mental Health Care at Camp

BY EMILY GOLINSKY, MS

Summer camps are known for the many opportunities they provide children, including swim lessons, the chance to make new friends and an introduction to new experiences. And now, in response to the increasing mental health challenges faced by today’s youth, many camps are also incorporating robust mental and emotional health supports.

Providing a safe and supportive environment where children can thrive is the goal of all camps, and “that has to include a focus on mental and emotional well-being,” according to a camp director who was asked about what changes their camp has undergone in post-pandemic times. Depending on the camp, that can mean everything from offering mindfulness workshops to designing group activities meant to build resilience and coping skills, to offering professional mental health support on-site.

Camps are also increasingly adding staff such as social workers, licensed mental health counselors, psychologists and individuals trained in advanced behavior management, de-escalation and trauma-informed care. These professionals are available to support campers directly, as well as to provide on-the-ground assistance to staff who may be less experienced in helping children through such difficulties.

In addition to addressing mental health, camps are working to become increasingly inclusive. The needs of incoming campers, including those related to diagnoses of ADHD, autism, medical issues or developmental challenges, are front and center as camps review their programs and get ready for the next summer. Some camps partner with medical professionals or education specialists to create individual support plans, but parents/guardians may not know to ask about these opportunities.

“Talking with the camp director ahead of enrollment is the best way to make sure the camp is going to be able to provide the right care for each child,” a longtime New Hampshire camp director shared. “We want to know what they need as early in the process as possible, so we can make sure camp is a good experience for everyone.”

With added support systems in place at so many camps, parents/guardians can feel more confident about giving their children a memorable camp experience.

“I was nervous about sending my son to camp, because his anxiety can come out at any time and really affect his day,” shared a mom of two campers who attended summer camp in New Hampshire for the first time last year. “But the camp connected me with their camper support liaison during the winter and then again right before camp in June, and they helped us make a plan that worked really well.”

Both her children are looking forward to their second summer at the camp.

These changes in staffing and programmatic support reflect the growing societal recognition of the importance of mental health and inclusivity. Camps have a big role to play in creating welcoming environments, reducing stigma and helping children make friends with others who may be different from themselves. And of course, just as it always has, all of that comes with a big helping of s’mores by the campfire and plenty of sunshine, fun and friends.

Emily Golinsky is the founder/owner of Bright Moose, LLC (www.brightmoosetraining.com). She is a longtime camp professional and an education advocate for youth with special needs.