Why summer camp according to the Chicago Tribune

Posted By: Kelly Marston

The title "Making a case for camp: This summer institution is old-fashioned — and as relevant as ever", speaks for itself.  In his article Josh Noel talks about the daily rituals, special moments, and the overall quailty of feeling a part of a genuine community.  Even though the article is talking about a camp in Michigan, it very well could have been Plantation.  The very sentiments that are expressed by campers in the article are deeply held at Plantation too.

"In the togetherness, idiosyncrasies are forgiven. Peer pressure dissipates, or as much as it can at the age of 14. Material things prized back home are made moot. What good is a PS3 at camp?

And judgment is withheld. Don't believe it?

"I don't have many friends at school," said Roberto Soto, 13, of Guadalajara, Mexico. "I like to read, and in Mexico reading is considered nerdy, and if you're a nerd, you're considered an outcast. Here, people are from a lot more places and everyone is open."

Anyone who has been to summer camp knows that the relationships are like few others. Friendships form quickly, intensely and with open minds."

And, what would a day be like without John's puns, the seventh "thank you" announcement, a reminder that pigs don't eat peach pits, and the knowledge that everyone is listening to you with respect.  From the outside, camp can seem like a bunch of people living outside, doing chores, making craft projects, and hiking in the woods.  What can be missed is the magic essence of the community that forms while at camp that allows kids the space to grow, restores energy and builds the foundation for future pursuits.  While that might seem like lofty goals for summer camp, that is what we strive to provide each and every day at Plantation Farm Camp.

www.chicagotribune.com/features/family/sc-fam-0218-camp-20100221,0,7845865,full.story