WRITTEN BY
Lori Bogomolny, Director Camp Green Acres
In a day and age where kids are much less likely to go outside and play with their friends, camp is an ideal solution to ensure that they don’t spend their summer sitting on the couch watching TV. With technology at their fingertips, you will find many kids on their computers, playing videogames, texting or talking on their cell phones. Â
Parents always strive to keep kids engaged and excited about what they are doing. At camp, there are so many unique and exciting activities to choose from such as rock climbing, archery, pottery, arts & crafts, recording, dance, golf, tennis and more. There are also many camps that focus on one particular program, such as karate or literacy. At Green Acres Day Camp, kids have a choice to participate in Traditional, Sports, Riding or MyCamp. Remember, kids who have plenty of options tend to be happier kids; the key is to get them outdoors during the summer and keep active.
Most recently, The Canadian Society for Exercise Physiology (CSEP) released revised Physical Activity Guidelines for children ages 5-11 and youth ages 12-17. The CSEP is Canada’s main body for physical activity, health and fitness research and personal training in Canada. The Guidelines recommend at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity daily, vigorous-intensity activities at least 3 days per week and activities that strengthen muscle and bone at least 3 days per week.
The physical benefits of regular activity at camp help kids maintain a healthy weight, increase their flexibility, strengthen their heart and help them maintain strong bones and muscles. The physical benefits of activity are invaluable and similarly the emotional benefits are priceless. At camps, staff is always cheering the campers on. It is also an amazing opportunity for kids to challenge themselves in a safe and supportive environment where they are surrounded by qualified instructors and encouraging friends. Camp fees also qualify as an allowable Child Fitness Tax Credit and as an Ontario Children’s Activity Tax Credit.
As the director of Green Acres Day Camp, I find myself listening to many parents express their pleasure at the changes and growth they have seen in their children while at camp. They comment on improvements in their children’s stamina, self-esteem, self-confidence and communication. It is amazing to watch kids grow up at Green Acres and it is a privilege to be part of shaping a child’s personality and behaviour in a positive way.
Camp is a large outdoor playground for kids. They stay active, feel happier, try different things, make new friends and gain confidence in the process. There is no denying the benefits of exercising and being outside in the summer at camp.
About the Author:
Lori Bogomolny is the second generation to run Camp Green Acres. She has been involved in camp her whole life as a camper, staff and head staff, both at day camps and residential camps.
Camp Green Acres is Toronto’s Premier Country Day Camp and has been family run since 1966! We offer an amazing variety of activities,daily swim instruction and door-to-door transportation. We also off an All-Star Sports camp and Cedar Creek horseback riding camp! Our facilities are unparalleled, take a virtual tour on our website, and watch our spirited camp video!
 (c) Lori Bogomolny 2011