Let’s face it: growing up today is a whole different ballgame. In his book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt dives into why so many kids and teens are dealing with skyrocketing anxiety and depression. From the pressure cooker of academics to the loss of good old-fashioned free play, kids are often left feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. Luckily, there’s a place that flips the script—Everwood Day Camp.
Here, kids can take a breather, rediscover joy, and grow into their best selves in a way that feels natural and fun. Let’s talk about why Everwood is exactly what kids need right now.
A Place to Build Confidence Without Fear
One of Haidt’s biggest takeaways? Overprotecting kids can backfire, keeping them from building resilience. At Everwood, we strike the perfect balance between support and independence. Campers get to try new things, push past their comfort zones, and feel the thrill of accomplishment—all with a safety net of caring staff who’ve got their backs.
Whether it’s tackling a climbing wall, learning a new skill (e.g., archery, stand-up-paddleboarding, etc), or working as a team to pull off a group challenge, kids walk away feeling proud of what they’ve done. And those lessons? They stick.
Play, Pure and Simple
Kids don’t get enough unstructured play anymore. Haidt points out how crucial free play is for creativity and problem-solving, and that’s something Everwood takes seriously (in the most fun way possible).
From pickup soccer games to arts-and-crafts sessions where imagination runs wild, play is built into everything we do. No screens, dedicated time for play—just the kind of good times that remind kids what it means to simply *be a kid*.
Real Friendships, Not Just Follows
Haidt talks about how social media leaves kids feeling lonelier, even when they’re “connected” online. At Everwood, we go back to basics: face-to-face connections, shared adventures, and lots of laughs.
Campers form bonds that are deeper than likes or snaps—they’re built on real moments, whether it’s a campfire singalong or teaming up to win the camp Olympics.
Boosting Mental Health, One Happy Camper at a Time
Everwood doesn’t just focus on physical activities; we’re all about emotional well-being too. With group discussions, and an inclusive culture that celebrates everyone, campers learn to handle their emotions and build resilience.
The mix of structured activities and high-energy fun gives kids a chance to breathe, reset, and just enjoy being themselves.
Learning Grit the Fun Way
At Everwood, kids discover that trying (and trying again) is where the magic happens. Whether it’s aiming for a bullseye in archery or nailing a new dance move, every effort is celebrated.
It’s about more than winning—it’s about growing a mindset that says, “I can do hard things,” which is something they’ll carry with them long after summer ends.
Let’s Get Outside!
Too many kids spend their days glued to screens, but nature has a way of working wonders. At Everwood, we’re surrounded by beautiful woodlands and a 350 acre lake, where campers can hike, kayak, and explore to their heart’s content. It’s a chance to unplug, breathe fresh air, and feel connected to the world around them.
A Team That Truly Cares
What makes Everwood special isn’t just the activities—it’s the people. Our counselors and staff are the heart of camp, bringing kindness, patience, and all-out enthusiasm to everything they do. They see every camper as an individual and make sure each child feels included, supported, and celebrated.
The Bottom Line
In a world that often feels too fast, too stressful, and too focused on screens, Everwood Day Camp is a breath of fresh air. It’s where kids can laugh, learn, and grow into confident, happy humans.
So, if you’re looking for a summer experience that’s more than just fun—one that truly helps your child thrive—Everwood Day Camp is the place to be. Let them play, explore, and shine. It’s the antidote to stress, the joy of childhood, and the start of something unforgettable.
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