Why Your Child Should Attend a Language Camp
As a parent, it can be difficult to know what decisions are best for your child. Initially, the thought of sending your child to a different country for a language camp can be overwhelming and frightening, but rest assured, there are many benefits to your child attending a language camp. From meeting new friends to being completely immersed in a new culture, not only will your child be able to learn a new language quickly, but they’ll also have fun during the process! Attending a language camp is a wonderful experience for children that will provide them with lifelong memories.
Here are some reasons why you should offer your child a language camp.
Quick Learning & Cultural Appreciation
There is no better way to learn a language than by travelling to or living where that language is spoken. It not only makes it easier to learn the new language but is also a great way to be educated on the language’s culture.
Children tend to adapt quickly to new situations and soak up information like sponges! Therefore, by being immersed in a new culture, children are likely to be more engaged in their learning and willing to challenge themselves as the language surrounds them. Because let’s face it, it’s much more fun to practice your Italian in the streets of Italy than the streets of London! Speaking of fun, the thought of learning a language while being in a new country is likely to be more appealing to a child than spending their day stuck in a classroom in their hometown. Children will also learn to appreciate the culture of the language they are learning and to appreciate other cultures. This is especially true for children who have never been outside of their home country.
Embracing Independence
An important part of a child’s growth is the building of independence. Going away to a language camp is often one of the first times a child can get a taste of independence. This opportunity is priceless and will enable a child to develop their critical thinking skills, gain self-esteem and learn responsibility while being under an adult’s supervision. Simple chores such as keeping their room tidy will be expected of them while at language camp. Therefore, they are held accountable for their actions and know what is expected of them.
Embracing independence is especially important for older teenagers as they begin to prepare to move out of their family homes for the first time. Being in situations where they can make some decisions for themselves is empowering. For example, deciding where they want to eat or wondering if they should join their friends for an activity are little ways to slowly grow their autonomy. As they grow older, they will understand that their choices and decisions have consequences, so it is important for them to choose wisely. Attending a language camp will give teenagers the independence they so often crave without them being completely on their own. It will also help them understand the importance of safety and be aware of their surroundings when travelling.
Creating Memories
One of the best things about your child attending a language camp is that they will make life long memories. While at camp, children will meet other students from various backgrounds, and friendships will develop out of these connections. A language camp will also create positive memories about learning for children. As opposed to remembering reading boring words off flashcards to learn a new language, children will participate in excursions and tours to acquire a language. This is what makes language camps so unique- as learning is introduced and encouraged in a natural way. It is far more interesting for a child to learn this way, and most of the time, children won’t even realize that they’re actually learning because they’re too caught up in the fun!
Having others to share exciting experiences with while travelling is important for children and will strengthen their relationships with fellow students. Between the excitement of being in a new country and the new friendships gained, your child will be left with memories they’ll never forget.
Adaptability
In general, children are very adaptable, but as they get older, this tends to change. Sometimes it can be beneficial for a child to step out of their comfort zone. When attending a language camp, children will learn to increase their ability to be adaptable in various situations. This skill can be developed through experiences while travelling. For example, something as simple as trying a new food or sport will provide children with an opportunity to step out of their comfort zone and, in return, can help them gain confidence and become more adaptable. It may also even help them overcome their fears!
A language camp can also show them that the world is a big place, and not all societies function in the same way. Although a new country or culture may do things differently than what they are used to, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s wrong, it is just simply different! Once children accept this way of thinking, they will be more accepting and open to new experiences. Adaptability Is a skill that will take children far in life and is increasingly important as they transition from teenagers to adults.
*Conclusion
There are endless benefits to your child attending a language camp. At first, children may be unsure or even scared at the thought of leaving home, and this is completely normal. However, they will quickly make new friends within a short amount of time and be so engaged with the new country that they will no longer be missing home. Children are usually surprised at how fast time flies when attending camp, and before they know it, it’s time to go home. Upon their return, not only will your child have acquired a new language, they will be so excited to share their experiences and memories with you!
