Campfire Notes

Sending Your Kids to Camp

May 7, 2026

Summer Camp can be a Powerful Tool for Building Confidence

At Gold Arrow Camp, we’re committed to staying informed on the trends and challenges that matter most to today’s youth and families. As proud members of the Western Association of Independent Camps (WAIC) — an organization dedicated to advancing the camp industry through community, education, and professionalism — we have the privilege of learning from leading experts in the field.

At this year’s WAIC Annual Conference, we were fortunate to hear from keynote speaker Lynn Lyons, LICSW — a psychotherapist, author, and sought-after speaker with over 30 years of experience specializing in anxiety disorders in children and adults.

Lynn spoke directly to something many families can relate to: the mix of nerves and uncertainty that can come with sending a child to summer camp. We get it — it’s a big step! That’s why we wanted to share this short video (under 4 minutes) in which Lynn explains why summer camp can actually be one of the most powerful tools for building confidence and easing anxiety in kids. We think you’ll find it both reassuring and inspiring.

Episode 74 – Gem

January 11, 2024

Today on the show we’re talking with Gem, who has put together a great list of 5 camp -inspired small changes you can make in your family life that will improve your mental and physical health. She’s written a blog about this same topic. As we talk about in the show, there is research supporting the process of making these changes from the Gottman Institute. If you want more information on picking a theme for the year, this post has more information from Sunshine Parenting. Finally, you don’t have to take our word for it, the Greater Good Institute at Cal has this research on the impact getting outside has on your happiness.

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