The benefits of summer camps are far-reaching
The season is approaching for summer camps, which come in many types—musical, athletic, academic, nature—and many time frames—daily, weekly, monthly. Despite this wide variety, there is a common thread: attending a summer camp is a good experience, even when it is not.
Take Kristy Garcia, for instance. As a youth, she attended an outdoor camp. As a high schooler, she took part in a cheerleading camp. Today, she’s an independently licensed professional clinical counselor supervisor with the Willow Center, which offers counseling services to families and individuals.
“I love summer camps, and the idea of them even more,” Ms.Garcia said. She sees summer camps as an extension of a learning environment outside of traditional school. “School can be kind of competitive. Summer camps are more of a community, building on skills. Kids can feel strong about themselves and their learning.” As a result, they do better when returning to school. “The confidence they gain in summer camp is important.”
One of the reasons it is important for children to attend summer camps—no matter what variety or length—is a topic that is gaining attention nationally. “It’s absolutely important for mental health,” she added. “It allows kids to build self-esteem, to value themselves for their hard work and achievements. Self-esteem is extremely important in kids. Kids with strong self-esteem can grow into adults with self-esteem. They’ll be strong, more selfaware, more confident adults.”
Camps that focus on physical activity are important because they promote a healthy emotional lifestyle, which also is good for mental health.
There are other benefits. She added that participating in summer camps promotes development of leadership skills— “working with those who are from different backgrounds with differences of opinion, who do not think the same as you. How to work through different perspectives and compromise and work as a team—those are things important throughout our entire lives.”
It is not just the activities and the peer interactions that benefit camp-goers. “The kids also are around positive adult role models,” she said. Many camp staffers are college students providing guidance. “That gives kids an idea of what their future could look like.”
Her advice to parents about sending their children to camp? “Send them. Let them go. Let them be free and independent. To see what it is like to make friends, to cope with feelings of missing home and being out of their comfort zone. It is good for their development. It is good for them to learn about themselves— back to self-awareness and building confidence.”
She speaks from experience. When she was a youth, she went to an outdoor camp–she didn’t look forward to it. But, she said, “I tried new things, like rock climbing and water slides. That pushed me out of my comfort zone.” The result? “I had fun. I became more adventurous because of it.”
Ms. Garcia continued, “I went to a cheerleading camp in high school. We went away for a week. That built team bonding, and we grew and developed.”
All of which leads her to this observation: “If it does not go well, the kids can say that even though it was hard, they survived. Or better yet, they can say, ‘I did hard things and I missed home and I did it—it was great.’” “Whether it’s a day camp or a going-away camp, whether sports- or music- or educationbased, it’s going to make those kids more confident and proud of their skills. The amount of new things they’re going to learn and the chance to get confidence and develop and be more creative—all of those are positive things.”
Dennis Bova is a freelance writer and editor
Choosing the right summer camp experience
Adults often look back fondly on their childhood experiences at summer camp.
Camps can provide the opportunity to form lifelong friendships and discover rewarding hobbies that can enrich campers’ lives for decades to come.
Choosing a summer camp is no small task, as the options at families’ disposal range from overnight camps to weekday afternoon camps to camps that specialize in certain programs, such as music or dance. Kids should be involved in the selection process, as they’re more likely to have an enjoyable camp experience if they had a say in where they will be spending their summers.
The American Camp Association urges parents to consider the child’s interests and personality before choosing a summer camp. Summer camps should align with children’s interests and maturity level. Locale may only be a consideration for families considering overnight camps.
Kids will likely be familiar with the locations of local day camps, but overnight camps might be set in environments less familiar to youngsters.
Kids who love the lake might benefit from lake-front camps that focus on marine biology, boating or other activities involving the water. In the same vein, youngsters who like camping and hiking might be more likely to embrace camps located in mountainous regions.
Parents who want their children to enjoy a largely schedule-free summer might not want to commit their children to lengthy camp sessions, even if those sessions are close to home. If parents think their children can benefit from the same structure they’re accustomed to during the school year, then an overnight camp that stretches for several weeks might be what they’re looking for.
Summer camps give kids a chance to make memories that will last a lifetime.
Choosing the right camp is an important decision that parents and kids should make together.
Music lessons are their Forté
Forté Music School offers lessons for all instruments and all ages in one location.
They have had a proven track record since 2006, offering quality music lessons year round in the Toledo area. They have earned the trust of more than 2,700 families for many years.
Forte Music School has more than 50 teachers with either college training or professional performance experience. All are dedicated to learning the personal musical goals of their clients.
In addition to their credentials, teachers are friendly and devoted to teaching the style of music clients want to learn. The school offers lessons every day of the week, from early in the morning to late at night to accommodate busy schedules. Forté is perfect for home school parents, retirees, college students or working professionals who have a flexible schedule.
The school, at 3208 West Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, is more than 6,000 square feet with 24 teaching rooms, large and clean restrooms, kitchen area, comfortable waiting rooms and a big parking lot.
Instead of waiting in a music retail store showroom, clients enjoy three spacious and professional lounges with comfortable chairs, toys, free Wi-Fi and magazines.
There are observation windows on all studio doors so parents can watch their children. Also, the open door policy allows parents to sit in during a private lesson anytime.
Coffee and vending machines are in the waiting areas for convenience.
A retail store with instruments and sheet music is on site. And, there is the option of paying tuition month-to-month.
The school does not require semester minimums for lessons. There are two free student showcases each year, plus many performance opportunities.
To view schedules, manage classes, add reminders, or manage an account, use the Mind-Body App for Apple and Android devices.
To learn more, visit ForteMusic419.com.
Summer reading suggestions
Denise Phillips With Gathering Volumes bookstore, 196 East South Boundary Street, Perrysburg, suggests the following selections for summer reading.
For Younger Readers – 3 to 8 years old •“Big,” by Vashti Harrison This book traces a child’s journey to selflove and shows the power of words to both hurt and heal. With spare text and exquisite illustrations, this emotional exploration of being big in a world that prizes small is a tender portrayal of how you can stand out and feel invisible at the same time.
•“Simon and the Better Bone,” by Corey R. Tabor Using the same innovative format as his Caldecott Honor winner, “Mel Fell,” Mr. Tabor reimagines Aesop’s “The Dog and His Reflection” in a clever, charming tale of empathy and generosity.
•“The Digger and the Butterfly,” by Joseph Kuefler The story tells of a crew of building trucks who befriend a caterpillar and witness its metamorphosis into a beautiful butterfly. The story includes an accessible guide to metamorphosis for young readers.
For Middle Grade Readers – 8 to 12 years old
•From the World of Percy Jackson: “The Sun and the Star,” by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro Percy Jackson fans, rejoice–Nico and Will have a book of their own. Nico will have to face demons both internal and external as his relationship with Will is tested to the core in this standalone adventure featuring two of the most popular characters in the Percy Jackson saga.
•From beloved powerhouse author Katherine Applegate comes “The One and Only Ruby,” starring the adorable baby elephant from the Newbery Medal-winning modern classic “The One and Only Ivan.” This highly anticipated middle grade novel is an excellent choice for tween readers in grades five through eight, for independent reading.
•“Tangled Up in Nonsense,” by Merrill Wyatt Sloane and Amelia clash with rival detectives when they travel to a secluded mansion in search of a missing fortune in this “warmhearted, very funny, madcap caper” (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) that’s the second book in the fun-filled Tangled Mysteries middle grade series.
•“The Adventures of Cthulhu Jr. and Friends,” by Dirk Manning and Scoot McMahon.
In this children’s adventure, a would-be supervillain tries to kidnap the son of Cthulhu with hilarious results. Both adults and children alike will find a lot to enjoy in this original graphic novel hailed as “A great comic for all ages!” by Sci-Fi and Scary!
Scrap 4Art camps inspire young artists
This summer, Scrap 4Art is fortunate to have three different instructors for the summer camps.
Olivia Anderson is a graduate of Toledo School for the Arts and a recent graduate of Ohio Wesleyan with a degree in Studio Art. Linda Shetzer is a retired elementary teacher and artist with a master of arts degree from the University of Toledo. Sarah Ritchey returns to facilitate our August camp.
The weekly themed camps will inspire young artists, ages 6 to 12 to use recycled materials to create their masterpieces.
Themes include: Just for Boys, a Minecraft experience; Just for Girls, jewelry-making and more; Plant Power, creations inspired by nature; Shark Week and Puppet Fun, which concludes with the campers putting on a show.
Detailed information and registration can be found at scrap4arttoledo.org or click on the QR code in the ad. Scrap 4Art is at 333 West Wayne Street, Maumee.
Notre Dame Academy asks, ‘What are you doing this summer?’
Notre Dame Academy invites girls in kindergarten through 12th grade to learn while having fun at their summer camps.
Set to begin in June at the school’s 3535 West Sylvania Avenue location, a wide variety of camp opportunities are available.
Led by Notre Dame Academy faculty–with support from NDA students–campers will have the opportunity to pamper their pets, complete their “Safe Sitter” certification, learn self-defense, explore fun with food, experiment with calligraphy and henna, try their hand at theatre, and much more.
“We work hard to provide a variety of summer camps, because ‘one size doesn’t fit all,’” said Christiana Jefferson, summer academy director.
Campers will feel fully supported and confident as they explore different interests while making new friends.
A $20 discount is available for academic and discovery camps through March 31.
To learn more, visit nda.org/ explore/summer/.
Notre Dame Academy, a Catholic preparatory school for young women, educates in the tradition, vision, and principles of the Sisters of Notre Dame.
Vacation time is important for all ages
Summer can fly by. Because summer can seem to come and go in a flash, it’s important for everyone to make the most of this relaxing time of year. Vacations from work and school are great ways to make summer memories, and the following are some ways to get even more out of these relaxing breaks.
•Disconnect for a few days. Truly disconnect from electronic devices for a period of time to give yourself a mental break. Stop answering work emails, avoid social media and turn off reminders of things that do not need your attention while you are on vacation or taking a break.
•Book a trip. It is not the destination but the opportunity to step away from the norm that can help make a person feel like he or she has truly gotten a break. Get away from your surroundings, if only for a weekend. Nearby resorts and water parks are great for short jaunts with the kids.
•Take a week off just to relax. Staycations or devoting another week to just lounging around or catching up on tasks around the house can ease pressure, making it possible to go back to work or school feeling even more recharged.
•Get out of the house or office. What’s the good of sunny skies and hot temperatures if you do not get to enjoy them? Make it a point to spend time outdoors every day. Go for a midday walk, sit in the park after work or throw the ball around with the kids in the backyard. Sunlight can be great for the mind and body. Doctors at Boston University Medical Center say sunlight triggers the release of serotonin and other hormones associated with a good mood. Increased exposure to sunlight also can regulate circadian rhythms for better sleep. Sunlight can trigger the release of nitric oxide into blood vessels, helping to lower blood pressure.
•Explore summer programs. Adults and children can try new skills and explore different talents this summer. Sign up for a camp or class, and stimulate the mind.
•Visit friends and family. Now that schedules have loosened up, take the opportunity to increase time spent with friends or family members, whether they live close by or far away. Make it a point to reconnect with someone who has been out of touch.Summer is a great time of year to take vacations and reconnect with nature and loved ones.
Camp Invention inspires kids to explore summer STEM fun with new program, Wonder!
For more than three decades, Camp Invention has developed confidence and problemsolving skills in young innovators through authentic, hands-on STEM activities.
For 2023, the Wonder curriculum features exclusive video content encouraging children to be confident in their ideas and explore their ability to innovate. These hands-on modules include:
•Catching Air–Taking a confidence-building ride through physics, engineering and art, children design and build their own skate park. Throughout the week, they gain momentum and build perseverance by taking on ramps and other features with their mini skateboards and practicing tricks of creativity and invention.
•Invention Celebration– Campers take on the role of event planners as they throw a party celebrating creativity and innovation. They invent a party assistant to help with their plans, explore the science of color with bubble art banners and experiment with sound vibrations as they make their own musical instrument.
•MimicBot–Children show their unique style when they transform a robot that mimics sounds into a one-of-a-kind animatronic stuffie. They explore biomimicry, genetics and adaptive creativity, and they learn how to use both inspiration from nature and the power of intellectual property to protect their creation from the idea-stealing Copy Cat.
•Pop-Up Venture–Big ideas pop up as children design their own mini pop-up business. Building their entrepreneurship skills, campers learn how to make strong financial decisions as they use their startup funds. They develop creative marketing strategies to attract customers and achieve their business goals.
Path Finders children’s grief camp to be held at Camp Miakonda
Since the beginning of Hospice of Northwest Ohio, bereavement care has been a core part of its services.
Building on that 42 years of expertise, in July the organization will host its second annual Path Finders children’s grief camp.
The four-day outing, for ages 6 to 15, will be held at Camp Miakonda, Tuesday, July 25 through Friday, July 28, from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
It provides opportunities for grieving children to interact with others who have experienced similar losses in a safe, fun and supportive environment.
Separated by age, campers will be led by licensed counselors, social workers and trained volunteers.
Camp activities are designed to allow campers to honor the memory of the person who died, normalize feelings, learn coping skills and participate in fun, outdoor games and activities.
Focus on the Future
Campers may be grieving sudden, tragic losses such as suicide, car accidents or drug overdoses or illnesses such as cancer, COVID or other chronic conditions.
The camp focuses on moving children forward in their grief and helping them adapt to life after loss.
Without effective interventions, grief can cause emotional and physical distress that not only affects the individual, but also impacts their family, friends and future careers.
Healthy grief allows individuals to be productive and contributing members of the community.
Community Support
Like many of Hospice of Northwest Ohio’s programs, the camp is only possible due to support from the community and volunteers.
This year’s sponsors include Key Bank, Trustee for the Terhune Fund and Yark Subaru, Share the Love Event.
It takes many hands to assure this experience is successful and meaningful for all who attend.
Residents are asked to consider volunteering their time and talents to help. No special skills are required.
Learn more about the camp and apply online at hospicenwo.org., send an email to pathfinderscamp@hospicenwo.org or call 419-931-5623.
Perrysburg Rowing team offers Learn To Row Camp
If your child enjoys being out on the water on a beautiful summer day and is looking to try something new, the Perrysburg Rowing team’s Learn To Row Camp is the place to be.
Participants entering seventh through 12th grade will learn all about the sport in a fun-filled, five-day camp located at the Philip LeBoutillier Jr. Memorial Boathouse at International Park, Toledo, on the Maumee River.
Coaches will guide campers through the many aspects of rowing, including basic rowing skills and boat handling. No experience is necessary, and members of the varsity team will be there to help and support them during the week. Rowing will be done in a four- or eight-person rowing shell and children will practice their form on the “ergs” – the rowing machines.
At the end of the fifth day, campers will race against each other for medals, and parents are invited to see how much they have learned in a week.
Rowing is one of the fastest growing high school and collegiate sports. Perrysburg High School is the only public school in northwest Ohio with a rowing team, with alumni rowing at: West Virginia University, University of Jacksonville, Notre Dame, Ohio State, Duquesne and club teams at Miami, John Carroll and Bucknell.
Rowing is the ultimate team sport where communication, leadership and character are key. Rowers learn the importance of dedication, hard work and perseverance.
Total Sports Complex offers opportunities
The complex itself has been in the area for less than a decade, but it has not taken long for area residents to understand the impact it has on the youth community.
Total Sports initially existed within Michigan’s borders, but with a chance to expand its reach and diversify its locations, the company expanded with a location just outside the Michigan line. The expansion has allowed for athletes south of Toledo to get a taste of the organization’s culture.
The best aspect of Total Sports is that it brings athletes inside, out of the hot summers and cold winters. With a variety of offerings and a massive number of structured teams, there is no shortage of opportunities to grow and develop with the Total squad.
It’s hard to fathom the size of the facility itself–with offerings of a 7v7 soccer field, a boarded 6v6 soccer field, baseball/softball hitting tunnels complete with a Hittrax, and a full size 11v11 indoor soccer dome.
The Rossford location recently added Pillar Fitness and the Pillar Athletic Performance and Hockey Academy. This provides a professional atmosphere in all facets of physical training with a specialty in the world of hockey. The Hockey Academy is home to northwest Ohio’s best hockey training programs, with offerings occurring all year round.
Those that haven’t yet experienced the power of Total Sports have a chance to become a part of the family through summertime camps as well as season-by-season sessions.
In a world that emphasizes the importance of development within future generations, Total Sports certainly achieves that amongst all levels.
To learn more, scan the QR code or call 419-874-9800.
Perrysburg Dance Academy prepares for its summer dance session
With the summer season close at hand, the academy is preparing for what they hope will be their best year ever, and their excitement is about more than just dance. Artistic Director Alisa Marier shared, “what makes our studio special is that not only do the dancers get a very well-rounded dance education, but our teachers also place an emphasis on helping to form well-rounded human beings.”
Speaking with just a couple of teens who have grown up dancing with the academy, their love for the studio is evident. “It’s a really great, inviting and warm environment,” said Macy Friemoth, a Perrysburg resident and Saint Ursula Academy junior, who has danced at PDA for nine years.
PHS freshman, Brooklyn Milligan also shared, “It’s more than just taking classes, it’s a family.”
With lessons offered for children ages 3 to 18, there’s a wide range of skills and experience at the studio. “There really is something for everyone here,” Macy said. “All ages, all genders and all identities. There’s so many styles of dance here that there’s something for everybody.”
To her point, PDA prides themselves on offering terrific preschool and junior level curriculum, as well as dance styles ranging from ballet to hip-hop, jazz, tap, musical theater, modern and more. The academy also boasts a successful competitive dance team, contemporary company—called Art in Motion— and a performance team with students aged eight to 18 who dance in parades and local events.
With the excitement of the dance year in full-swing, the next adventure is already on Ms. Heckler’s mind. “During the summer is when the studio really shines,” she said. “We get a lot of new dancers who take our summer camps, especially the little ones. It’s a great way to try dance for the first time or learn a new style. Since the summer sessions are shorter, there’s really no pressure— you might love it, you might not, but either way it’s fun to try something new.”
While Ms. Heckler loves the summer for the little dancers and the new adventures, Macy and Brooklyn look forward to it for something else. Both girls said that their favorite thing about PDA is the studio’s Nutcracker, specifically the annual Nutcracker Camp that is held every summer. This class isn’t for everyone. Ms. Heckler described it as “a fun but intense class for our older and more experienced ballet dancers who want featured parts in the corpse de ballet of the Nutcracker.”
For five days, dancers attend hours long rehearsals with Ms. Marier and begin the process of bringing the production to life. “Nutcracker camp is really fun,” said Brooklyn.
“We get to dress up and have spirit days. It’s always so cool to see the show come together, and I just love everything about it.”
“Whether you’re just starting out, want to give dance a try or are looking for a new studio, you’re always welcome at PDA,” Ms. Heckler said.
Enrollment for the studio’s summer classes opens on Friday, April 14.
Visit perrysburgdance.com or call 419874-6773 to sign up or learn more.
