In this day and age, we live in a digital world. It is no doubt that technology has positive advantages to many aspects of our lives; we can stay in touch with loved ones all over the world, we have access to endless amounts of information, provides much entertainment … and the list goes on.

On the flip side, the use of technology is concerning, especially for children and youth. On average children between the ages of 8 – 18 years olds, spend about 8 hours a day in front of a screen. There is no doubt that using technology corrupts children, specifically, separating children from the outdoors and preventing face-to-face interaction. The research about the negative effectives of technology and children’s development is plentiful.

At Lovell Camps, children arrive and all technology is removed. It is locked and tucked away for the whole session. This sometimes comes with concerns both from parents and from children. However, we truly believe the benefit of unplugging from technology during the program heavily outweighs the benefits of continuing to use technology.

When children unplug from technology, the world becomes alive again for them! Children become present and they reconnect with themselves. Also, children are able to make more meaningful interpersonal connections. They build real, genuine connections and friendships with those around them. They begin to notice their environment, and who wouldn’t want to enjoy the Swiss Alps?

Camp is the perfect environment to support this drastic change, of turning off technology. Summer camp is the ideal time for children to unplug from technology and reconnect with themselves, their peers and leaders and their environment. With structured and engaging programs, children don’t even have time to think about technology or the lack of it, as they are having so much fun. By the end of the program, children realize that their lives don’t need to revolve around screen time. Children will walk away from the program, more aware of themselves, with new friendships and better daily habits and skills.

Check out, Steven Baskin – Unplugging Our Kids, for an excellent TEDTalk that discusses the benefits of unplugging children while at summer camp.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rI3olRHxP4