The Benefits of Unplugging from Screens at Summer Camp (And How to Help Your Kids Prepare for the Big Detox)
By preparing your child for this experience in a positive, supportive way, you can help them embrace the opportunity to recharge and experience the magic of camp without the distractions of the digital world.

With the constant pull of smartphones, tablets, and gaming systems, Bucks County kids are rarely without their screens. That’s why unplugging from screens at camp is so important—it offers a wealth of physical, mental, and emotional benefits that can have lasting impacts on their development. Let’s explore why it’s essential for kids to disconnect from their devices at summer camp and provide practical tips on how to prepare them for this big break from technology.
Summer camp is a great way for children and teenagers to have fun, make new friends, and learn new skills. Check out our Bucks County Parent Summer Camp Guide to learn more! There, you’ll also find a directory of our Bucks County Parent Camp Partners.
The Power of Unplugging: Why It Matters
Encourages Face-to-Face Socialization
One of the most obvious benefits of unplugging at camp is the opportunity for kids to build genuine relationships with their peers. While digital communication can be convenient, it often lacks the depth and authenticity of in-person interactions. At camp, kids are encouraged to engage in real-time conversations, share experiences, and collaborate in group activities, which helps them develop important social skills such as empathy, conflict resolution, and active listening.
Fosters Greater Connection with Nature
When kids are constantly looking at screens, they’re disconnected from the world around them. Summer camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature. From hiking in the woods to canoeing on a lake, kids can develop a deeper appreciation for the environment. This kind of unplugged experience helps them become more aware of the beauty in their surroundings, encourages outdoor play, and supports physical well-being through activities that promote fitness and exploration.
mproves Mental and Emotional Health
Spending too much time on screens can contribute to feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression, especially for children and teens who are still developing emotional resilience. At camp, the absence of digital distractions allows kids to focus on their feelings, their thoughts, and their relationships without the constant pressure of social media. A break from the online world can promote emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, and even improve sleep patterns—critical for overall well-being. The sense of accomplishment that comes from learning new skills or simply unplugging and being present can do wonders for their self-esteem.
Boosts Creativity and Imagination
With less screen time, kids are naturally pushed to engage their imagination and creativity. Whether they’re crafting, storytelling around a campfire, or improvising games with their friends, the lack of technology opens up space for pure, unstructured play. These creative activities foster problem-solving skills and cognitive flexibility, which are valuable assets both in and out of the classroom.
Teaches Healthy Technology Habits
Unplugging from screens at camp provides an opportunity to model and teach healthy technology use. When kids take a break from their devices, they can learn that it’s okay to disconnect sometimes and enjoy life offline. This sets a precedent for future healthy habits as they grow up in a world where tech is constantly around them. It’s not about rejecting technology, but about striking a balance between online and offline worlds. “[They] will be so distracted having fun, [they] will forget about screens!” says local parent Dawn H.

Helping Your Kids Prepare for a Technology-Free Camp Experience
As much as we all know the benefits of unplugging, it can be a bit of a shock for kids to leave their screens behind. Here are some steps you can take to help your child prepare for their screen-free summer camp adventure:
Set Expectations Early
Let your child know well in advance that they won’t be able to bring devices like smartphones, tablets, or gaming consoles to camp. Emphasize the positives—how they’ll have a chance to focus on their friends, engage in outdoor adventures, and try new activities. Let them know that camp is a space for them to grow, and technology-free time is part of that experience.
Says local parent Avery C, “I would verbally set his expectations leading up to the first day. Word it so you’re also looking forward to TV and a few days in wean your words back. Week before camp -talk about some cool things and friends he will do and make. Night before camp. Camp tomorrow! When I pick you up you can take a quick shower to cool down, get in some comfy clothes and let’s pick what TV episode or movie we want to watch now that way I can have it ready to go when you’re done getting dressed. During the getting dressed make a statement – I bet camp was so awesome, can’t wait to watch this movie! Next day. Have a great day at camp, don’t forget to pick a movie for tonight. Ask direct simple answered questions this night during changing.. what did you think of archery at camp today? Next day can I pick a movie tonight? I love seeing you so excited and I want a turn to pick too. Ask more open ended questions who did you play with? How was the lunch? And by the second week he may be talking to you about camp for the whole night between dinner and shower and bed. Our crew used to watch 2 shows every night and it was getting super addictive to our 6 year old. This is what I did with her but with school and now we only watch TV during the weekends and she even tells her younger siblings this new rule so I have her buy in!”
Practice “Unplugged” Time at Home
In the weeks leading up to camp, create opportunities for your child to get used to spending more time offline. Designate certain times of the day as “tech-free” zones—perhaps during family meals, on weekend outings, or during designated activity hours. This gradual transition can make the idea of disconnecting feel less daunting.
“We limit screen time and it’s built into our daily schedule. Because of this my kids don’t have any problems turning it off,” says local parent Kim M.
Discuss Alternative Forms of Entertainment
Some kids might feel anxious about not having access to their devices, particularly if they rely on them for entertainment. Introduce them to alternatives that they can enjoy without screens, like board games, books, outdoor sports, or creative projects like drawing or journaling. Give them a sense of what activities they can look forward to at camp.
Local parent Samantha J. advises taking them to places that encourage activity and don’t require screens, like the Little Pod in Montgomeryville or Kids Empire Warminster.
Prepare for Communication with You
Many parents worry about staying in touch with their kids while they’re at camp, but part of the magic of summer camp is the opportunity for kids to take a break from constant communication. That said, it’s important to set clear expectations around how and when you’ll be able to reach your child, whether through scheduled letters, postcards, or occasional phone calls. Reassure your child that they’ll be well taken care of and that you’ll be in touch when the time is right.
Model the Behavior Yourself
If your child sees you constantly glued to your phone or laptop, it’s harder for them to take the idea of unplugging seriously. As you prepare for the camp season, consider setting an example by limiting your own screen time. Show your child that you, too, can enjoy moments of unplugged peace. This will help reinforce the idea that it’s possible to enjoy a fulfilling, meaningful experience without constant access to technology.
Ready? Set? Unplug!
The idea of unplugging from screens during summer camp might seem like a big step in our tech-heavy world, but the benefits are undeniable. A screen-free camp experience encourages children to develop stronger social connections, embrace outdoor adventures, improve their mental health, boost their creativity, and set healthy boundaries with technology. It’s a gift that can help kids grow in ways they might not have imagined—and one that will leave them with memories to treasure long after camp is over.
By preparing your child for this experience in a positive, supportive way, you can help them embrace the opportunity to recharge and experience the magic of camp without the distractions of the digital world.
The Benefits of Unplugging from Screens at Summer Camp (And How to Help Your Kids Prepare for the Big Detox) is part of the Bucks County Parent Summer Camp Guide.
Feature Photo Camp America in Chalfont
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