Summer camp
has so many positive influences on a young person’s life, from gaining
independence and trying new things, to building self-confidence and simply
having a great time. But what makes all
these experiences so much better is sharing them with the friends we make. It is often said that one of the most amazing
and significant parts of the camp experience are the friendships that develop. But no matter where your friendships begin, friendships
are meaningful and beneficial to a happy and healthy life.
Friendships
contribute to healthy psychological development and wellness starting in early
childhood and continuing throughout adulthood.
Friendships can be a wonderful source of emotional strength and help us
feel more self-confident. Friendships
increase our sense of belonging and purpose.
Friends listen, provide support, and give encouragement. Friendships allow us to give of ourselves and
care for others. Friends help us
grow. They teach us patience and
understanding, and even help us work through conflicts when we don’t see eye to
eye. Friendships provide a sense of
peace when we are struggling.

In short, children
benefit greatly from having friends. They help a child grow and develop the
self-confidence and social skills needed into adulthood. And having strong friendships into adulthood
is likely to increase longevity, reduce stress and once again improve
self-esteem. So even though it takes
time to stay in touch, especially when life gets busy, reach out to your
friends. They will keep you happier and
healthier for years to come. Friendships
are important and worth the effort.
“Relationships
help people feel that they are worthy, that they are capable, that they can set
goals and accomplish them, and that they can control their lives”.
Toni Antonucci, professor of psychology,
University of Michigan.
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