As the summer approaches and school ends, a world of seemingly limitless possibilities for enrichment, education and entertainment present themselves for our children. Unique among the options, however, are the opportunities afforded by attending a Jewish summer camp.
In recent years, countless studies have shown that the informal, experiential education provided by summer camp is critical to forming lasting Jewish bonds and beacons of Jewish identity for young children.
Join us as we list 12 reasons Jewish summer camp is so great:
1. Because they serve gefilte fish
Well, that’s not entirely true. We’ve personally attended many Jewish summer camps that never served succulent loaves of gefilte fish on their tables. Shocking, we know. Fish aside, a good Jewish summer camp will be sure to serve kosher food for your child, nourishing your child’s body and soul.
2. Because a proud Jew is a healthy Jew.
And you want your children to have the greatest spiritual health. When children attend a Jewish summer camp, they are able to stretch their Jewish “muscles,” grow, and explore their place among our people.
3. Because it’s time to get physical . . .
Even the greatest soul needs a strong body, as Maimonides writes: “The health and wellbeing of the body is part of one’s service of G‑d.”
4. . . . and spiritual
A real Jewish camp will be based on educating campers about the Torah, mitzvot, and history of the Jewish people. Critical year round, but for children who don’t attend Jewish school during the year, camp is a unique chance to learn about Judaism.
5. Because no matter where you are in the world, there’s a Jewish camp nearby.
Jewish camps are often at the heart of communities around the world. For example, Chabad’s network of Gan Israel camps can be found in some seventy countries. That means that no matter where in the world you are, a chance for an exciting summer of Jewish learning and exploration is accessible.
6. Because what’s a summer without tons of fun?
There’s never a dull moment at Jewish summer camps: activities, sing-alongs, camping, hiking, color war and more. The spark in their eyes will tell you how much they enjoyed their time.
7. Because, let’s admit it, you also need a break . . .
You’re a great parent. We know that. Your kids know it. But even the greatest parents deserve some time off. A Jewish summer camp will be a great place for your children to be while you recharge.
8. Because they learn about the holidays . . .
Rosh Hashanah isn’t only apples and honey, Passover isn’t only matzah ball soup. Let your children discover a world full of fun Jewish holidays.
9. Because there will be plenty of camp plays
I mean, who doesn’t love a good sing-along?
10. Because the camp counselors are amazing
Professional and courteous, each counselor is dedicated to giving your child a meaningful and powerful learning experience in safe and warm environment.
11. Because they will come home happy!
In Judaism, happiness is a great thing, and Jewish camps do everything in their power to make your child happy.
12. And immediately begin counting down for next year.
So send your child to a Jewish summer camp—you will be happy you did!
Look for a Jewish summer camp in your area today! You can also click here to search hundreds of camps that are part of the Gan Israel Chabad camp network.
I have a bit of a unique perspective on summer camps as a homeschooling SAHM. The idea that anyone can teach my kiddos better than me is appalling and far too common! In today's day and age, parents are bombarded with the message that our little ones are better off in the care of others. That's simply not true.
As a homeschooling mama, exercise, spirituality, and fun are all part of our DAILY routine. And although I need breaks sometimes, those are for a few hours, not all summer!
It hurts my heart to see sending your kiddos away treated as not just the norm, but the IDEAL. First of all, it's unreasonably expensive for those of us who live simply. Second, sending your kids to summer camp is robbing them of the chance to bond with their siblings and make friends in their own community. Lots of parents tell you that school and summer camp are where kids go to make friends. But they're only good places to make friends BECAUSE people send their kids there. Why not make friends at home?🤔
While you have a point, particularly for Jewish childen who do not attend Jewish schools and live in small communities, Jewish summer camp is a vital part of their education. Not only do they learn about Judaism in a fun and relaxed environment (reinforcing the education they receive at home), they also make Jewish friends that last a lifetime, reinforce their pride in being Jewish and strengthen their Jewish identities. Which is particularly important in this day and age. That said, one can attend camp for a few weeks or a month, and there are grants available to make them more accessible.
I don't doubt that summer camp is vital for any kid unlucky enough to go to public school. But it's disappointing and even a little frustrating as a mama who lives in a Jewish community (and moved here so my little ones would have that community!) that the same children my kiddos barely get to socialize with during the school year because they’re in school or daycare my kids also barely get to socialize with during the summer because they’re so often out of town. Bonding with your own community and family NEEDS to be a priority and not a last resort!