Photo Credit: Can Stock Photo Inc. / stokkete
It seems as though camp electronic policies have become almost as important as the Golden Rule these days. You know the rule: Treat others as you would like to be treated. Most of my campers would like to be treated to a day dedicated to video games. I’m not as enthusiastic about that idea as they are. In fact, I don’t know many camp people who are.
The use of iPads, smart phones, video games, hand-held video games, and various social-media outlets have become so widespread that many camps plan entire programs around them, using them to their advantage. How many camps use social media to market programs? And who has seen the high-tech robotics camps or camps that teach kids to make their own movies and music videos, and then edit them, using tablets? These are awesome ideas for those who are willing and able to offer them.
But for those looking for a good, old-fashioned day-camp experience—one full of swimming, high-ropes courses, canoeing, and crafts—what can be done about all of these electronic gadgets that campers are so excited about and so upset to part with?