Activities at Camps for Troubled Kids
Troubled children can benefit greatly from attending a camp that suits their needs. Each camp offers different activities devised to heal troubled children and help them overcome their particular difficulties. Most camps offer different types of activities, each with their own intended end. The activities range from outdoor exposure and sports to responsibilities and therapy.
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Wildreness Therapy
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Wilderness therapy is one of the primary methods of healing troubled kids. Taking children into nature on hikes through the mountains gives them a wide perspective of the beauty of the natural world. Nature is peaceful and calming. It is very helpful for children who have been through violent or traumatic experiences. High energy nature activities like rafting give children a sense of adventure and mastery of skill. It is a refreshing experience to have fun and enjoy the moment without drugs or alcohol.
Sports
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Team sports benefit troubled children in myriad ways. Sports gives children a sense of teamwork and camaraderie with their teammates and peers. They help kids build physical skills like speed, agility and strength while giving them an earned sense of pride and self confidence. Team sports also teach troubled kids the importance of honesty, communication and good sportsmanship while releasing endorphins that make them feel better. All these qualities help troubled kids grow into more open and confident adults.
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Farm Residency
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Some troubled children's camps involve residency on a farm or ranch. Activities on the farm include waking up at dusk and performing farm duties like feeding chickens, bringing in the cows and cleaning horse stalls. Farm residency camp activities give children a break from the fast-paced, overstimulating media of city life and bring them to a simpler, slower paced environment. Farm duties teach children responsibility, the value of hard work, accountability, respect and compassion.
Group Therapy
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Group therapy is a sharing and listening activity particularly helpful for troubled children. Children of a similar age group or background sit in a circle with a moderator and share their thoughts and feelings about a particular subject. Group therapy allows children to express themselves in a safe environment with their peers. In group therapy sessions, their feelings are validated; kids see they are not alone and begin to find a sense of strength and closure.
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References
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