Benefits of Camp

In 2005, Phillber Research Associates, in association with the American Camp Association (ACA), concluded the largest research study of camper outcomes ever conducted in the United States. This study included more than 5,000 families and 80 ACA camps. Dragonfly Forest is an ACA camp.

While experiences at camp are as diverse as the children who attend, the overall results of this study suggest that a stay at summer camp typically benefits children in the following ways:

• Children become more confident and experience increased self-esteem.

• Children develop more social skills that help them make new friends.

• Children grow more independent and show more leadership qualities.

• Children become more adventurous and willing to try new things.

At Dragonfly Forest, we strive to meet these same objectives. Informal feedback given by campers and family members in 2005 indicated that the children in attendance generally communicated a more positive outlook on life, a decreased sense of isolation (being the only child facing his or her particular illness), and a sense of tremendous satisfaction from "conquering" activities they never thought they could do.

In 2005, ACA campers reflected:
  - Camp helps me feel good about myself (92%)
  - At camp, I did things I was afraid to do at first (74%)

In 2005, ACA parents shared that:
  - My child gained self-confidence at camp (70%)
  - My child continues to participate in activities learned at camp (63%)

The benefits of Dragonfly Forest are simple. We create an environment for seriously ill children where they come to realize that they are not their illness and that their choices control their ability to enjoy a positive and meaningful life. This dramatic change in thinking contributes to improved physical and mental health over the long term.