Sometimes a parent will tell me that while they liked the recommendations I made for their child, he/she was indifferent or reluctant and they are going to stay home for the summer. Summer experiences are expensive. Kids are busy with local obligations and often happy to “hang out”.  Is it important to push?

Yes! If you want your child to learn to…

• Negotiate with peers and advocate for themselves at summer camp
• Gain self esteem through testing themselves beyond their perceived limits on a wilderness trip
• Be part of another culture from the inside out on a language immersion experience
• See how happy people can be with far less stuff than we have on a community service trip
• Make friends for life going on a summer experience of any kind

A summer program offers students much more than something to do. It helps them grow and develop.