When we started camping, I never could have imagined all of the things kids learn from camping. We have been visiting KOAs for the last few years. We have been to kampground at Uniontown, Myrtle Beach KOA, the KOA in Bald Eagle, and now we can add Niagara Falls KOA to that list.
We are firm believers in the value of experiences over objects which is exactly why we make it a point to get away when we can, even if it’s just for a few days. We love all the things kids learn from camping so, when I started searching for something to do on Labor Day weekend, I knew I would be looking for destinations with KOAs. You may be wondering why we insisted on doing this rather than searching for a hotel anywhere. This last trip to Niagara Falls was really eye opening for me in terms of what value KOA truly offers our family, and all of the things kids learn from camping.
This post was sponsored by kampgrounds of america. However, all of the opinions in the post are 100% honest, I promise!
3 things kids learn from
camping
- How to make new friends. This is one of my favorite things kids learn from camping. Our children are pretty friendly, and typically not shy. There is no denying that they have learned the joy of making new friends at KOAs though. We visited a new country when we stayed at Niagara Falls KOA. A vast majority of the people staying there were Canadian. That didn’t stop my kids, and the others staying there from running around and playing tag together. It didn’t stop them from making new friends on the bounce pillow, or at the pool. It has become part of the routine when we stay at a new KOA to get to know the people staying around us. The kids actually look forward to meeting new people.
- How to have fun without electronics. This is another one of my favorite things kids learn from camping. The beauty of KOAs is that most offer several options for lodging. You can stay in a tent, you can stay in a basic lodge, you rent a spot for your RV, you can stay in a lodge with a bathroom, a kitchen, and televisions, or even a yurt at some KOAs. The last 3 KOAs we visited, we lodged in very basic cabins with no bathrooms, and no tvs. I’d be lying if I said we weren’t a little nervous to not have a tv, at least for bed time. Our kids like to watch tv when they calm down at night. They spend so much time exploring, and playing during the day though, they don’t need the tv at night. During the day, the last thing that’s on their minds is electronics. There really is so much to do. This was the first time rented pedal cars. Niagara Falls KOA had mini golf, life sized board games, pools, hay rides, bounce pillows, and more! We did leave the KOA (to do these must do activities) but we really could have stayed at the kampground the entire time.
- Independence. There is a sense of community and safety on the kampgrounds. They may not all be the same sizes, but all of the ones we have been to, have be very easy to find our way around. The kids have enjoyed some freedom while we are there. They have learned how to walk to the store together and get an ice cream, or go to the park on their own. They have learned how to find their way around somewhere new and the value of the buddy system. The rule in our family is, you may go “do your thing” without a grown up chasing you around, but you must stay with one of your siblings. They love the fact that they are able to roam a little without a grown-up, but they are aware of the responsibility that comes with that independence.
The moral of the story— If you haven’t been to a KOA, you are missing out. Which KOAs have you visited? Have you noticed that your kids have learned anything special?
do you follow me?? if not, come on!!! it’ll be fun!and don’t forget to subscribe if you haven’t already to get YOUR FREE 14 page ebook– 10 photo projects for ANYONE with ANY camera!!!
You may also enjoy
These are great things your kids have learned. We often go to the Hytta where we have no electricity or running water. It is great so we can all focus on getting away from technology for a bit.
Amazing! Really love all these images you took too!
Great post! That the reason why I always try to have outdoor activities with my kids once a week. What a wonderful method to help them develop healthily. Btw, your photos are stunning, I really love them. Thanks for sharing.
hey, jennifer! thank you so much for taking the time to check out this post, and for the sweet compliments on my pictures. i love that you make it a point to do something outside at least once a week. what a great way to make sure you do!
Having fun without electronics or technologies is a hard part. Anyway, it is must-to-do. Thanks for sharing your ideas. I believe that kids will have true happiness if following your ideas.