The Power of Camp Friendships
At camp, children experience something rare in today’s world: connection without distraction. Without phones or social media, they engage fully in real-life friendships, learning how to navigate relationships, resolve conflicts, and form deep bonds that often last a lifetime. Research shows that time spent in these face-to-face social environments strengthens emotional resilience, independence, and empathy—skills that will serve them well beyond the camp gates.
Biblical Wisdom on Friendship
Scripture reminds us of the value of strong relationships:
"Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help.” – Ecclesiastes 4:9-10
At camp, children experience the truth of this verse firsthand. Whether they’re working together to paddle a canoe, cheering each other on during a challenge, or offering encouragement after a tough moment, they are learning how to support and be supported by their peers.
Research on Social Development at Camp
Modern child psychology affirms what camp families have known for generations—camp fosters essential social skills. Studies show that when kids engage in cooperative activities, navigate group living, and experience shared challenges, they build confidence in their ability to form meaningful relationships. According to The New York Times Parenting, camp environments provide “a rare opportunity for children to practice autonomy, develop friendships outside of their usual circles, and build resilience.”
The Anxious Generation & The Distraction of the Camera
In The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt describes how constant documentation and social media have rewired childhood, shifting kids’ focus away from real-world interactions and toward curated digital identities. The years between 2010 and 2015 marked what he calls “The Great Rewiring of Childhood,” as smartphones and social media changed the way children interact with the world. He argues that kids need time away from these pressures to develop true confidence and connection.
At camp, we believe in providing that space. This is one reason we are shifting our approach to daily camp photos—allowing kids to stay present in the moment rather than worrying about how they appear in a snapshot.
What Michael Eisner Says About Camp Friendships
Former Disney CEO Michael Eisner, in his book Camp, reflects on how camp friendships are uniquely deep because they form in a space free from everyday distractions. He writes:
“Camp is the place where friendships are forged without distraction, and those friendships often last a lifetime.”
When kids are free from the expectation of being photographed or seen through a digital lens, they can focus on what truly matters—being themselves, making real connections, and learning the joys of community. By removing the pressure of being constantly observed and documented, kids are encouraged to fully embrace the joy, challenges, and friendships of camp. Stepping away from the curated world of social media—even just for a week—provides the freedom to be present, to grow, and to form the kind of friendships that last a lifetime.