Why letting your child attend camp is one of the best things you can do this summer
Summer is meant for sunshine, exploration, and just the right amount of “figure it out for yourself.” And for kids, that’s more than just a break from the classroom—it’s a huge opportunity for growth.
At Brains & Motion, we believe summer camp should do more than entertain. It should inspire kids to try new things, stretch their thinking, and build independence in ways that last long after summer ends.
Here are 5 ways BAM! summer camps help kids become more confident, capable, and ready to take on the world (or at least the school year ahead):
1. They make choices—and own them.
Summer camp gives kids freedom within structure. Instead of being told exactly what to do and how to do it all day, campers get to choose: Should I build a robot or start my short story? Do I want to be the team captain or help organize materials? When kids are trusted to make these decisions, they start to see themselves as capable problem-solvers and valued collaborators.
At BAM! camps, we intentionally create choice-driven activities to encourage independent thinking. Whether it’s designing a science experiment or leading a group challenge, every decision is a step toward self-confidence.
2. They manage their time (without realizing it).
One of the coolest things about camp? Kids naturally develop time management skills—without ever hearing the phrase “time management.”
They quickly learn that there’s only so much time in the robotics lab or on the soccer field. If they want to finish their engineering project or fit in one more game, they need to stay focused, keep track of transitions, and follow the camp flow. And they do—because they’re motivated by curiosity and fun.
That sense of internal motivation is what builds true independence—and it sticks with them well beyond summer.
3. They step outside their comfort zone.
Growth doesn’t happen in the comfort zone. That’s why summer camp gently nudges kids to take safe risks and try something new every single day.
For one camper, that might mean taking the stage in front of others in a performing arts camp. For another, it could be coding a project from scratch or joining a team sport for the very first time. Our supportive instructors are trained to encourage effort over perfection and create a space where mistakes are part of the journey.
The result? Kids walk away feeling braver—and more independent—because they challenged themselves and discovered they’re more resilient than they thought.
4. They meet new people and navigate social situations.
At BAM! camps, kids connect with peers from different schools, neighborhoods, and backgrounds. With no built-in social circles, they learn to make new friends, speak up for themselves, collaborate with teammates, and solve small disagreements without adult intervention at every turn.
These are real-life social skills that build emotional independence: learning to advocate, listen, compromise, and cooperate. Whether they’re partnering in an art project or strategizing during a game, campers grow socially and emotionally with every new connection.
5. They experience success because they tried.
We all want our kids to feel successful—but what’s even more powerful is when they feel successful because they put in the work.
At BAM!, success doesn’t mean being the best—it means showing up, trying something new, and learning along the way. Whether a camper finally cracks a tough coding bug, scores their first goal, or presents their story to the group, every milestone is earned through effort and curiosity.
That sense of pride? That’s independence. And it lasts long after the camp session ends.
Plant the seeds now for summer growth.
Summer camp isn’t just a fun way to fill the calendar (although, yes, we’ve got plenty of fun!). It’s a meaningful way to give your child space to grow, stretch, and become a little more themself.
When you drop them off on Monday morning, they may feel nervous. But by Friday afternoon? They’ll be walking taller, talking more confidently, and showing you just how much they’ve grown in a few short days.
And you’ll get to tell them, “I knew you could do it.”
Ready to help your child build independence this summer?
Find a BAM! summer camp near you
Spots are filling fast—secure your child’s spot today!