Go Camping for happier kids who do better at school

June 20, 2015June 20, 2015 Vanessa James 0 Comments

Children who go camping each year fare better at school, enjoy better health and most importantly are happier children according parent feedback in a new study carried out by an education institute in Plymouth and the Camping and Caravanning Club

The research found that 80% of parents thought that camping had a positive effect on their children specifically their school education. Around 11,000 families were surveyed it also found that 98% of parents felt camping holidays helped their children connect with nature and develop a greta appreciation of nature. Notably parents felt their children were happier when on a camping trip and that they picked up useful skills that would aid them when they were older.

Makings sure children get some time away from modern technology such TV, tablets, computers and mobile phones was cited as a big benefit of going camping tip whether in a tent or campervan. 68% felt that it enhanced their learning in the classroom as they could recount adventures adventures and experiences of visiting new places and those of historical significance. Freedom, independence and confidence were also attributes high on the list that parents felt their children got from camping.

VW Campervan Thermal Blinds — VW Campervan Camping Trip

The professor behind the study says “Interestingly, the parents surveyed believed camping supported the key curriculum subjects of Geography, History and Science. And actually, that stacks up because the most common camping activities were natural – such as rock pooling and nature walks – where children were getting to understand ecosystems and identify lifeforms, respecting nature and the environment.”

Children’s own responses to the survey showed they loved making new friends, having fun, playing outside and learning various camping skills. There was also recognition of the fact that by virtue of going camping, kids naturally find there are tasks where they have to work together and solve problems which are all key aspects of the school curriculum and school life.

Julia Bradbury who is President of the Camping and Caravanning Club states:

“Taking the kids camping is such a great experience for the whole family,” says Julia, who is mum to 3 year old Zephyr, and twin baby daughters Xanthe and Zena. “We have masses of beautiful scenery on our doorstep in the UK and camping doesn’t have to be expensive (although you can try glamping!). It’s a brilliant way of getting our kids out in the fresh air, away from the TV and computers – developing their brains and teaching them to interact with each other and the countryside in different ways. If you haven’t taken your family camping, give it a go – it’s an adventure that won’t disappoint you, and there are hundreds of superb British campsites to choose from.”