Camp Guide

Camps that promote courage

Develop inner strength and confidence, and learn the value of facing fear

Courage is:
• Willingness and ability to face fears and try new things
• Tolerance for uncertainty
• Social confidence

“Camps foster courage,” says Sarde Matti, in part because “[they don't have] the added pressure of performance that might accompany a more traditional, academic setting.” Below the listings, learn more from registered social worker Matti, parents and campers discussing the importance of camp to the development of courage. Read more

	Info	Cost	Ages	Activities
FEATURED Power of Words Academy VIRTUAL Public Speaking Grades 2/3 Reading Comprehension, Writing and Public Speaking Online Program Sep 15, 2021 - Jun 22, 2022 • Online • Age 7 to 8 (Coed) • From $1,700 Online Committed to providing the highest quality of written and oral communication training to children nurturing environment! Read more view details	,159,177,342,2,196,32,135,79,33,91,97,270,268,271,19,362,358,virtualprogram,coed,	1700	7-8	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-01
FEATURED Shepherd Private Coaching PROGRAM Music Lessons Private Lessons in Piano Sep 13, 2021 - Jun 19, 2022 • Burlington, ON • Age 5 to 18+ (Coed) • From $30 BurlingtonOntario Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced private lessons in piano - become the musician you've always dreamed of being! Read more view details	,287,5,37,176,programclass,coed,	30	5-19	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-01
FEATURED Shepherd Private Coaching PROGRAM Glee Show Choir Sep 16, 2021 - Jun 16, 2022 • Burlington, ON • Age 9 to 17 (Coed) • From $30 BurlingtonOntario Music makes us move, and what better way to celebrate rhythm in our bodies than singing and dancing simultaneously?! Read more view details	,258,5,22,165,138,37,150,programclass,coed,	30	9-17	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional Week 1 Jul 03 - Jul 09, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 6 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,199 RosseauOntario Muskoka Woods is a place like no other featuring an unmatched activity schedule and led by trustworthy staff. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1199	6-16	2022-07-01
FEATURED Educo Adventure School OVERNIGHT Leadership Training Adventure Diversity, Equity & Inclusion + Leadership Jul 11 - Aug 20, 2022 • 100 Mile House, BC • Age 14 to 17 (Coed) • From $512 100 Mile HouseBritish Columbia Guided by our DEI trained facilitators and outdoor guides, we’ll create a safe space to learn and challenge each other! Read more view details	,48,6,298,41,81,366,2,91,33,275,145,24,320,1,153,319,28,3,16,322,56,225,252,overnightcamp,coed,	512	14-17	2022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional CLASSIC Aug 28 - Sep 02, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 13 to 15 (Coed) • From $1,399 RosseauOntario Exclusive TEEN ONLY camp from August 28 – September 2. The perfect way to end your summer. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1399	13-15	2022-08-012022-09-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps VIRTUAL Academics (group) Chess Camp Senior - Virtual Jun 20 - Jul 08, 2022 • Online • Age 12 to 13 (Coed) • From $85 Online Through lessons and play, this program will allow for more experienced players to further advance their skills. Read more view details	,196,2,32,virtualprogram,coed,	85	12-13	2022-06-012022-07-01
FEATURED I Dare U2 Bee VIRTUAL Traditional Kindness Club Jul 19, 2021 - Dec 31, 2023 • Online • Age 5 to 15 (Coed) • From $0 Online JUMP START your GREATNESS in GROWING YOUR HEART, TRAINING YOUR BRAIN and BUILDING YOUR KINDNESS FOOTPRINT! Read more view details	,337,5,197,345,10,9,296,297,173,123,270,2,188,0,virtualprogram,coed,	0	5-15	2021-07-012021-08-012021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-012022-07-012022-08-012022-09-012022-10-012022-11-012022-12-012023-01-012023-02-012023-03-012023-04-012023-05-012023-06-012023-07-012023-08-012023-09-012023-10-012023-11-012023-12-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps DAY CAMP Sports Active Explorer-On Campus Jul 04 - Aug 12, 2022 • Uptown, Toronto • Age 6 to 9 (Coed) • From $396 TorontoUptownUptownOntario Obstacle courses, hikes through our nature trail, problem-solving activities, and a variety of sports! Read more view details	,11,3,347,12,327,223,54,324,260,66,daycamp,coed,	396	6-9	2022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps VIRTUAL Languages Beginner French Camp -Virtual Jul 25 - Jul 29, 2022 • Online • Age 8 to 9 (Coed) • From $128 Online This one-week program offers campers the opportunity to develop their French language skills. Read more view details	,79,2,270,19,virtualprogram,coed,	128	8-9	2022-07-01
FEATURED Lakefield College School Summer Programs OVERNIGHT Languages Learning French through the Outdoors (FSF1D) Jun 29 - Jul 29, 2022 • Lakefield, ON • Age 13 to 17 (Coed) • From $5,650 LakefieldOntario Strengthen your French fluency while learning to camp, hike and paddle on wilderness adventures. Read more view details	,41,6,81,20,2,79,24,16,3,322,25,31,49,56,overnightcamp,coed,	5650	13-17	2022-06-012022-07-01
FEATURED Focus Learning Academic Centre VIRTUAL Reading Public Speaking FocusClub- Bookworm's Book Club & Toastmasters Club: Grades 3-6 Sep 18, 2021 - Jan 29, 2022 • Online • Age 8 to 11 (Coed) • From $1 Online We offer two FocusClubs: Book Club & Toastmasters Club, on alternating Saturdays. FocusClub is run by our dedicated teachers Read more view details	,196,2,32,362,97,270,virtualprogram,coed,	1	8-11	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional Week 8 Aug 21 - Aug 27, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 6 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,199 RosseauOntario Muskoka Woods is a place like no other featuring an unmatched activity schedule and led by trustworthy staff. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1199	6-16	2022-08-01
FEATURED Camp Can-Aqua OVERNIGHT Traditional INTRO to Camp - Single Week Trial Aug 28 - Sep 02, 2022 • Haliburton Highlands, ON • Age 6 to 12 (Coed) • From $1,395 Haliburton HighlandsOntario Enjoy a single week with others who are new to the Can-Aqua Experience. Read more view details	,48,6,41,81,133,5,197,345,175,37,59,288,10,9,173,123,69,174,134,24,2,160,137,226,1,153,8,3,224,11,347,12,15,322,16,25,223,28,31,36,346,222,49,54,74,56,260,63,64,161,65,360,363,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1395	6-12	2022-08-012022-09-01
FEATURED Lakefield College School Summer Programs DAY CAMP Dance LCS Dance Intensive Aug 01 - Aug 05, 2022 • Lakefield, ON • Age 13 to 17 (Coed) • From $450 LakefieldOntario Build dance and choreography skills while collaborating on dance performances drawn from nature. Read more view details	,154,5,22,259,258,165,265,288,daycamp,coed,	450	13-17	2022-08-01
FEATURED Creative Club Global VIRTUAL Robotics Robotics - We Do 2.0 Jan 24 - Mar 28, 2022 • Online • Age 6 to 8 (Coed) • From $260 Online Grade 1 - 3 Students use our robotics kit dropped off with a tablet to build and program robots.eg. Race Car, Helicopter, Fan Read more view details	,285,5,37,150,173,9,349,177,266,67,68,351,179,365,160,2,97,268,virtualprogram,coed,	260	6-8	2022-01-012022-02-012022-03-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps DAY CAMP Traditional Outdoor Adventure - On Campus Jun 27 - Aug 05, 2022 • Uptown, Toronto • Age 12 to 13 (Coed) • From $396 TorontoUptownUptownOntario Campers will develop & challenge their wilderness abilities, learn about sustainable practice & develop leadership skills! Read more view details	,48,6,81,33,2,91,188,0,daycamp,coed,	396	12-13	2022-06-012022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Camp Frenda OVERNIGHT Traditional Junior Camp 1 Jul 03 - Jul 09, 2022 • Port Carling, ON • Age 8 to 12 (Coed) • From $675 Port CarlingOntario Junior Camp is loved by children 8-12 old years across Ontario. Come enjoy some amazing time on Lake Rosseau! Read more view details	,8,3,12,347,15,322,16,21,25,27,28,30,49,54,56,63,64,221,222,251,10,5,9,69,133,174,175,37,256,41,6,48,81,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	675	8-12	2022-07-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional Week 4 Jul 24 - Jul 30, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 6 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,249 RosseauOntario Muskoka Woods is a place like no other featuring an unmatched activity schedule and led by trustworthy staff. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1249	6-16	2022-07-01
FEATURED Ontario Educational Leadership Centre OVERNIGHT Leadership Secondary Arts: Inspiring Leadership Jun 26 - Jul 02, 2022 • Washago, ON • Age 14 to 18 (Coed) • From $794 WashagoOntario Practice your art while simultaneously developing leadership skills. Seek inspiration from like minded artist. Read more view details	,48,6,258,5,22,165,175,37,176,150,59,288,10,9,173,123,69,88,2,91,33,153,1,224,3,12,347,25,322,223,221,54,56,63,161,overnightcamp,coed,	794	14-18	2022-06-012022-07-01
FEATURED Focus Learning Academic Centre VIRTUAL Public Speaking Empowerment Toastmasters Public Speaking & Debate: Grades 3-4 Sep 18, 2021 - Jan 29, 2022 • Online • Age 8 to 9 (Coed) • From $720 Online Convey the importance of the public speaking skills in their lives and give them tools to be a confident speaker. Read more view details	,196,2,32,195,362,79,366,91,97,270,19,virtualprogram,coed,	720	8-9	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-01
FEATURED Shepherd Private Coaching PROGRAM Theatre Arts Performing Arts Classes Sep 13, 2021 - Jun 14, 2022 • Burlington, ON • Age 4 to 17 (Coed) • From $25 BurlingtonOntario Classes in Performing Arts for ages 4 through 17, to develop stage presence, build character, and encourage teamwork! Read more view details	,282,5,274,288,265,59,programclass,coed,	25	4-17	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional Week 3 Jul 17 - Jul 23, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 6 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,249 RosseauOntario Muskoka Woods is a place like no other featuring an unmatched activity schedule and led by trustworthy staff. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1249	6-16	2022-07-01
FEATURED Ontario Educational Leadership Centre OVERNIGHT Leadership Intermediate Arts: Emerging Leadership Jun 19 - Aug 27, 2022 • Washago, ON • Age 12 to 14 (Coed) • From $794 WashagoOntario Practice your art while simultaneously developing leadership skills. Seek inspiration from like minded artist. Read more view details	,48,6,258,5,22,165,175,37,176,150,265,288,59,10,9,173,123,69,159,177,33,2,91,275,24,153,1,224,3,12,347,25,322,223,28,221,56,63,161,overnightcamp,coed,	794	12-14	2022-06-012022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Lakefield College School Summer Programs OVERNIGHT Languages Learning English through the Outdoors (ESLCO) Aug 10 - Sep 08, 2022 • Lakefield, ON • Age 13 to 17 (Coed) • From $6,700 LakefieldOntario Strengthen your English fluency while learning to camp, hike and paddle on wilderness adventures. Read more view details	,41,6,81,79,2,24,16,3,322,25,31,49,56,overnightcamp,coed,	6700	13-17	2022-08-012022-09-01
FEATURED Focus Learning Academic Centre VIRTUAL Public Speaking Debate Toastmasters Public Speaking & Debate: Grades 5-6 Sep 18, 2021 - Jan 29, 2022 • Online • Age 10 to 11 (Coed) • From $720 Online Convey the importance of the public speaking skills in their lives and give them tools to be a confident speaker. Read more view details	,196,2,32,195,362,366,91,97,270,19,virtualprogram,coed,	720	10-11	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps DAY CAMP Debate Model UN Camp - On-campus Jun 20 - Jun 24, 2022 • Uptown, Toronto • Age 12 to 13 (Coed) • From $495 TorontoUptownUptownOntario Learn the purpose and function of the United Nations and finish with an age-appropriate Model UN simulation. Read more view details	,362,2,97,daycamp,coed,	495	12-13	2022-06-01
FEATURED Focus Learning Academic Centre VIRTUAL Public Speaking Leadership Toastmasters Public Speaking & Debate: Grades 7-8 Sep 22, 2021 - Jan 26, 2022 • Online • Age 12 to 13 (Coed) • From $720 Online Convey the importance of the public speaking skills in their lives and give them tools to be a confident speaker. Read more view details	,196,2,32,195,362,366,91,97,270,19,virtualprogram,coed,	720	12-13	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-01
FEATURED Lakefield College School Summer Programs OVERNIGHT Dance LCS Dance Intensive Aug 01 - Aug 05, 2022 • Lakefield, ON • Age 13 to 17 (Coed) • From $1,195 LakefieldOntario Build dance and choreography skills while collaborating on dance performances drawn from nature. Read more view details	,154,5,22,259,258,165,265,288,overnightcamp,coed,	1195	13-17	2022-08-01
FEATURED Educo Adventure School OVERNIGHT Nature Adventure Climate Action + Leadership Jul 25 - Aug 27, 2022 • 100 Mile House, BC • Age 14 to 17 (Coed) • From $512 100 Mile HouseBritish Columbia Dialogue and reflection regarding the relationship between our actions and environmental issues & the global climate crisis. Read more view details	,48,6,298,41,81,366,2,91,33,275,145,24,320,1,153,319,28,3,16,322,56,225,252,overnightcamp,coed,	512	14-17	2022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Educo Adventure School OVERNIGHT Adventure Out-tripping Cariboo Adventurers Jul 04 - Aug 06, 2022 • 100 Mile House, BC • Age 9 to 11 (Coed) • From $740 100 Mile HouseBritish Columbia This exciting 5-day course is packed full of adventure and exploration! Read more view details	,48,6,298,41,81,337,5,366,2,91,33,24,357,50,316,267,7,153,1,319,251,3,28,221,260,16,322,56,225,252,overnightcamp,coed,	740	9-11	2022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Power of Words Academy VIRTUAL Education Grades 4 Reading Comprehension, Writing and Public Speaking Online Program Sep 15, 2021 - Jun 22, 2022 • Online • Age 9 to 10 (Coed) • From $1,700 Online Power of Words Academy is committed in providing the highest quality of written and oral communication training to children. Read more view details	,159,177,342,2,196,32,135,79,33,91,97,270,268,271,19,362,358,181,virtualprogram,coed,	1700	9-10	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps DAY CAMP Traditional Challenge Camp Sr. - On Campus Jul 25 - Jul 29, 2022 • Uptown, Toronto • Age 12 to 13 (Coed) • From $495 TorontoUptownUptownOntario Girls and boys in Challenge Camp Sr. will enjoy fun activities that challenge them to think critically and collaboratively! Read more view details	,48,6,10,5,9,281,2,130,50,268,12,3,347,54,161,188,0,daycamp,coed,	495	12-13	2022-07-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps DAY CAMP Skilled Trades Make it or Break It Camp Level 1 - On Campus Jun 20 - Jun 24, 2022 • Uptown, Toronto • Age 12 to 13 (Coed) • From $625 TorontoUptownUptownOntario n this hands-on program, campers will develop skills using hand tools and machinery through project-based learning. Read more view details	,134,5,130,2,50,268,137,daycamp,coed,	625	12-13	2022-06-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps DAY CAMP Traditional Challenge Camp Jr. - On Campus Jun 20 - Aug 12, 2022 • Uptown, Toronto • Age 10 to 11 (Coed) • From $495 TorontoUptownUptownOntario Girls and boys in Challenge Camp Jr. will enjoy fun activities that challenge them to think critically and collaboratively! Read more view details	,10,5,9,281,2,268,12,3,347,54,161,188,0,daycamp,coed,	495	10-11	2022-06-012022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Creative Club Global VIRTUAL Singing/Vocal Songwriting Drop the mic Jan 18 - Mar 08, 2022 • Online • Age 6 to 11 (Coed) • From $275 Online Learn from our professional singing coach how to open up your sound to project your voice clearly and effectively. Read more view details	,285,5,37,150,virtualprogram,coed,	275	6-11	2022-01-012022-02-012022-03-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps DAY CAMP Financial Literacy Money Matters Camp - On Campus Jun 27 - Jul 29, 2022 • Uptown, Toronto • Age 10 to 11 (Coed) • From $396 TorontoUptownUptownOntario Campers will have fun while learning how money works and developing good financial habits, an essential life skill. Read more view details	,278,2,daycamp,coed,	396	10-11	2022-06-012022-07-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional Week 7 Aug 14 - Aug 20, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 6 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,199 RosseauOntario Muskoka Woods is a place like no other featuring an unmatched activity schedule and led by trustworthy staff. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1199	6-16	2022-08-01
FEATURED Lakefield College School Summer Programs OVERNIGHT Languages Learning English through the Outdoors Jul 10 - Jul 29, 2022 • Lakefield, ON • Age 11 to 13 (Coed) • From $4,500 LakefieldOntario Strengthen your English fluency while learning to camp, hike and paddle on wilderness adventures. Read more view details	,41,6,81,79,2,24,16,3,322,25,31,49,56,overnightcamp,coed,	4500	11-13	2022-07-01
FEATURED FDT Academy VIRTUAL Public Speaking Public Speaking Sep 28, 2021 - Jun 04, 2022 • Online • Age 4 to 18 (Coed) • From $100 Online Public Speaking private lessons help students to present with confidence, deliver impromptu speeches, and write speeches. Read more view details	,196,2,32,195,275,91,97,270,19,362,366,358,virtualprogram,coed,	100	4-18	2021-09-012021-10-012021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional Week 5 Jul 31 - Aug 06, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 6 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,199 RosseauOntario Muskoka Woods is a place like no other featuring an unmatched activity schedule and led by trustworthy staff. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1199	6-16	2022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED YMCA Wanakita OVERNIGHT CIT/LIT Out-tripping First Year Student Counsellor (1st Year SCs) Jul 03 - Aug 27, 2022 • Haliburton Highlands, ON • Age 15 to 15 (Coed) • From $4,062 Haliburton HighlandsOntario Powerful leadership skills and a challenging wilderness environment for them to learn and grow Read more view details	,48,6,41,81,133,5,154,22,257,259,258,165,175,37,38,176,150,265,288,59,10,9,173,123,134,88,2,91,33,226,1,8,3,12,347,327,223,54,63,21,324,36,346,28,221,74,60,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,overnightcamp,coed,	4062	15-15	2022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional Week 6 Aug 07 - Aug 13, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 6 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,199 RosseauOntario Muskoka Woods is a place like no other featuring an unmatched activity schedule and led by trustworthy staff. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1199	6-16	2022-08-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps VIRTUAL Traditional Strategy Board Games Camp - Virtual Jul 04 - Jul 22, 2022 • Online • Age 10 to 11 (Coed) • From $128 Online Develop critical thinking and strategy skills while playing classic board games. Read more view details	,196,2,32,188,0,virtualprogram,coed,	128	10-11	2022-07-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps DAY CAMP Financial Literacy Bulls & Bears: Investing 101 Camp - On Campus Jul 04 - Aug 05, 2022 • Uptown, Toronto • Age 12 to 13 (Coed) • From $495 TorontoUptownUptownOntario Campers will have a blast learning about investing with a hands-on, age-appropriate curriculum, filled with games and lessons Read more view details	,278,2,daycamp,coed,	495	12-13	2022-07-012022-08-01
FEATURED Creative Club Global VIRTUAL Public Speaking Speak Jam - Public Speaking Jan 22 - Mar 12, 2022 • Online • Age 7 to 12 (Coed) • From $275 Online Speak with confidence…and be heard! This unique program empowers kids of all ages by learning the art of communication. Read more view details	,150,5,37,97,2,virtualprogram,coed,	275	7-12	2022-01-012022-02-012022-03-01
FEATURED Crescent Camps VIRTUAL Technology Semi-Private Coding Camp-Virtual Jul 25 - Jul 29, 2022 • Online • Age 12 to 13 (Coed) • From $225 Online Tutored by a highly qualified computer science teacher, students develop their skills in their preferred choice of program Read more view details	,331,177,180,332,159,virtualprogram,coed,	225	12-13	2022-07-01
FEATURED Muskoka Woods OVERNIGHT Traditional Week 2 Jul 10 - Jul 16, 2022 • Rosseau, ON • Age 6 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,249 RosseauOntario Muskoka Woods is a place like no other featuring an unmatched activity schedule and led by trustworthy staff. Read more view details	,48,6,256,5,133,253,175,37,10,9,173,123,69,174,276,1,8,3,224,12,347,223,26,54,58,63,27,29,125,222,221,348,74,260,15,322,16,31,49,56,64,225,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1249	6-16	2022-07-01
LearningRx – Richmond Hill VIRTUAL Academics (1:1) Education MathRx (Online) Nov 30, 2021 - Dec 31, 2022 • Online • Age 8 to 18+ (Coed) • From $80 Online MathRx strengthens the brain skills needed to easily understand math concepts, solve problems, and perform calculations. Read more view details	,195,2,32,129,181,virtualprogram,coed,	80	8-19	2021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-012022-07-012022-08-012022-09-012022-10-012022-11-012022-12-01
LearningRx – Richmond Hill PROGRAM Academics (1:1) Education MathRx (In-Person) Nov 30, 2021 - Dec 31, 2022 • Richmond Hill, ON • Age 8 to 18+ (Coed) • From $80 Richmond HillOntario MathRx strengthens the brain skills needed to easily understand math concepts, solve problems, and perform calculations. Read more view details	,195,2,32,129,181,programclass,coed,	80	8-19	2021-11-012021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-012022-07-012022-08-012022-09-012022-10-012022-11-012022-12-01
Hockey Opportunity Camp OVERNIGHT Traditional Ultimate (Traditional) Camp Program Jul 03 - Aug 27, 2022 • Huntsville, ON • Age 7 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,125 HuntsvilleOntario Spend an action-packed day of "fun in the sun" participating in a variety of land and/or water activities. Read more view details	,48,6,81,10,5,9,320,1,153,276,8,3,63,347,324,36,346,16,322,25,31,49,56,64,161,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	1125	7-16	2022-07-012022-08-01
Inspirely STEAM Education VIRTUAL Education STEAM Why Did Elon Musk Sent His Car to Space? \| Online Creative Workshop for Children Feb 21 - Feb 21, 2022 • Online • Age 8 to 14 (Coed) • From $20 Online If your child is curious about space, this is the best workshop / event to attend. Read more view details	,302,177,304,180,67,159,281,2,130,50,317,314,268,181,virtualprogram,coed,	20	8-14
Camp Dreamwood OVERNIGHT Traditional Overnight Summer Camp Jul 10 - Aug 19, 2022 • Land O' Lakes Tourist Region, ON • Age 6 to 18+ (Coed) • From $950 Land O' Lakes Tourist RegionOntario Camp Dreamwood is unlike many camps, offering a unique, inclusive program for all campers. Read more view details	,48,6,298,41,256,5,133,258,22,175,37,339,176,285,150,274,288,265,289,59,10,9,363,173,295,123,69,174,360,344,2,88,91,366,33,275,160,24,270,357,50,320,1,153,319,276,8,3,11,347,12,327,323,223,151,194,54,58,63,164,36,346,27,28,29,222,221,74,260,16,322,201,25,31,56,161,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	950	6-19	2022-07-012022-08-01
Hockey Opportunity Camp OVERNIGHT Hockey Hockey + (Traditional) Camp Program Jul 03 - Aug 27, 2022 • Huntsville, ON • Age 7 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,270 HuntsvilleOntario Featuring 10 intensive hours of on-ice skill development, 2 chosen camp activities daily plus fitness or wellness training. Read more view details	,48,6,81,320,1,153,276,8,3,63,347,324,36,346,29,16,322,25,31,49,56,64,161,overnightcamp,coed,	1270	7-16	2022-07-012022-08-01
Randolph Kids Performing Arts DAY CAMP Musical Theatre Singing/Vocal SUMMER CAMP - Musical Theatre Performance IN PERSON - Intermediate Cast Aug 15 - Aug 19, 2022 • Downtown, Toronto • Age 10 to 12 (Coed) • From $450 TorontoDowntownDowntownOntario Come sing, dance and act with us in this musical study and performance camp. Read more view details	,165,5,22,150,37,265,288,59,daycamp,coed,	450	10-12	2022-08-01
The Taylor Statten Camps OVERNIGHT Traditional Try-Out Camp (TOCO) Jul 13 - Aug 17, 2022 • Algonquin Park, ON • Age 6 to 8 (Coed) • From $995 Algonquin ParkOntario Camp Ahmek and Camp Wapomeo offer a balance of canoe tripping and programming. Activities include swimming, canoeing, arts & Read more view details	,48,6,41,81,154,5,22,257,259,258,165,175,37,59,288,10,9,123,174,226,1,8,3,11,347,12,16,322,25,28,30,31,151,222,221,49,54,74,56,58,161,363,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	995	6-8	2022-07-012022-08-01
Bayview Glen Camp DAY CAMP Water Sports Lake Days Camp Jul 11 - Aug 12, 2022 • North-York, Toronto • Age 7 to 13 (Coed) • From $600 TorontoNorth-YorkNorth-YorkOntario Lake Days Camp provides campers with the opportunity to tackle challenging inflatables, kayak, play volleyball and more! Read more view details	,276,1,63,3,347,16,322,201,31,49,56,daycamp,coed,	600	7-13	2022-07-012022-08-01
Camp Cherith - Ontario OVERNIGHT Traditional Coed - Adventure Jul 10 - Aug 20, 2022 • Southern Bruce County, ON • Age 6 to 17 (Coed) • From $519 Southern Bruce CountyOntario We offer many different activities to help your child learn a new skill, build friendships and try something different Read more view details	,48,6,81,150,5,37,10,9,173,134,88,2,91,33,24,16,3,322,25,31,56,8,12,347,223,28,30,36,346,54,60,63,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	519	6-17	2022-07-012022-08-01
Appleby College Summer Programs DAY CAMP Traditional Sports Sports & Adventure Summer Camps Jun 27 - Sep 02, 2022 • Oakville, ON • Age 7 to 14 (Coed) • From $455 OakvilleOntario Campers get to try at a wide variety of sports, games, and team challenges all while developing their skills! Read more view details	,16,3,322,56,12,347,324,327,323,26,221,194,54,74,58,63,188,0,66,daycamp,coed,	455	7-14	2022-06-012022-07-012022-08-012022-09-01
CASMA Camps DAY CAMP Traditional Summer Camp 2022 Jun 20 - Aug 26, 2022 • North-York, Toronto • Age 4 to 14 (Coed) • From $200 TorontoNorth-YorkNorth-YorkOntario Learn and develop your skills in sport, art, music and more in a safe and fun environment with high quality instruction. Read more view details	,154,5,22,259,258,165,287,37,286,265,288,59,10,9,296,297,173,123,333,67,177,196,2,32,195,79,88,91,33,160,97,268,224,3,12,347,21,323,36,346,54,74,58,260,63,161,362,188,0,daycamp,coed,	200	4-14	2022-06-012022-07-012022-08-01
Camp Cherith - Lanark OVERNIGHT Traditional Traditional Summer Camp Jul 10 - Aug 26, 2022 • Ottawa, ON • Age 8 to 16 (Coed) • From $470 OttawaOntario Camp Cherith Lanark offers a variety of outdoor skills to keep your child active this summer! Read more view details	,133,5,175,37,59,288,10,9,69,134,97,2,8,3,54,347,63,36,346,28,74,16,322,25,31,56,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	470	8-16	2022-07-012022-08-01
Camp Mère Clarac OVERNIGHT Traditional Languages Girls \| Summer Overnight Camp \| 2022 Jul 03 - Aug 12, 2022 • Saint-Donat, QC • Age 5 to 16 (Girls) • From $598 Saint-DonatQuebec « Joie de vivre » at camp Mère Clarac is discovering, exploring and having fun! Read more view details	,48,6,170,59,5,288,10,9,173,123,24,2,8,3,11,347,12,26,54,58,63,28,29,221,139,16,322,56,188,0,79,overnightcamp,allgirls,	598	5-16	2022-07-012022-08-01
Engineering For Kids York Region PROGRAM LEGO Robotics Junior Robotics + Civil Engineering Jan 15 - Feb 19, 2022 • Vaughan, ON • Age 4 to 7 (Coed) • From $210 VaughanOntario Kids explore civil engineering concepts such as building, design and construction, also create and program their robots! Read more view details	,67,177,160,2,130,50,268,programclass,coed,	210	4-7	2022-01-012022-02-01
Bayview Village Junior Tennis Camp PROGRAM Tennis Private or Group Tennis Lessons North York Apr 25 - Oct 14, 2022 • North-York, Toronto • Age 3 to 18+ (Coed) • From $28 TorontoNorth-YorkNorth-YorkOntario Up your game with 1:1 tennis lessons with the best in the area. Available to both children and adults. Read more view details	,58,3,347,74,programclass,coed,	28	3-19	2022-04-012022-05-012022-06-012022-07-012022-08-012022-09-012022-10-01
Camp Kahuna DAY CAMP Traditional KAHUNA DAY CAMPS - Multiple Weeks Jul 04 - Sep 02, 2022 • Burlington, ON • Age 4 to 13 (Coed) • From $325 BurlingtonOntario We have dedicated 30 years to inspiring leadership in children. We incorporate fun with leadership lessons. Read more view details	,33,2,91,12,3,347,25,322,28,54,56,225,10,5,9,17,70,288,173,197,345,188,0,daycamp,coed,	325	4-13	2022-07-012022-08-012022-09-01
Mi-A-Kon-Da OVERNIGHT Traditional Women's Wellness Weekend Sep 09 - Sep 11, 2022 • Parry Sound, ON • Age 19 to 18+ (Girls) • From $250 Parry SoundOntario Come relax and engage on an adventurous retreat where you can re-energize, connect with friends, and explore nature! Read more view details	,48,6,81,154,5,22,258,165,175,37,176,150,59,288,10,9,173,123,69,16,3,322,25,28,31,221,49,56,63,347,161,360,188,0,overnightcamp,allgirls,	250	19-19	2022-09-01
Scouts Canada PROGRAM Traditional Adventure Cub Scouts Dec 23, 2021 - Dec 31, 2037 • Ottawa, ON • Age 8 to 10 (Coed) • From $230 OttawaOntario Cubs embark on outdoor adventures like hikes, camping & paddling, and explore fun activities in STEM & cultural experiences. Read more view details	,48,6,298,81,256,5,133,10,9,134,366,2,91,33,24,268,8,3,224,11,347,12,327,54,21,36,346,52,367,28,51,221,16,322,25,31,49,56,44,225,188,0,252,programclass,coed,	230	8-10	2021-12-012022-01-012022-02-012022-03-012022-04-012022-05-012022-06-012022-07-012022-08-012022-09-012022-10-012022-11-012022-12-012023-01-012023-02-012023-03-012023-04-012023-05-012023-06-012023-07-012023-08-012023-09-012023-10-012023-11-012023-12-012024-01-012024-02-012024-03-012024-04-012024-05-012024-06-012024-07-012024-08-012024-09-012024-10-012024-11-012024-12-012025-01-012025-02-012025-03-012025-04-012025-05-012025-06-012025-07-012025-08-012025-09-012025-10-012025-11-012025-12-012026-01-012026-02-012026-03-012026-04-012026-05-012026-06-012026-07-012026-08-012026-09-012026-10-012026-11-012026-12-012027-01-012027-02-012027-03-012027-04-012027-05-012027-06-012027-07-012027-08-012027-09-012027-10-012027-11-012027-12-012028-01-012028-02-012028-03-012028-04-012028-05-012028-06-012028-07-012028-08-012028-09-012028-10-012028-11-012028-12-012029-01-012029-02-012029-03-012029-04-012029-05-012029-06-012029-07-012029-08-012029-09-012029-10-012029-11-012029-12-012030-01-012030-02-012030-03-012030-04-012030-05-012030-06-012030-07-012030-08-012030-09-012030-10-012030-11-012030-12-012031-01-012031-02-012031-03-012031-04-012031-05-012031-06-012031-07-012031-08-012031-09-012031-10-012031-11-012031-12-012032-01-012032-02-012032-03-012032-04-012032-05-012032-06-012032-07-012032-08-012032-09-012032-10-012032-11-012032-12-012033-01-012033-02-012033-03-012033-04-012033-05-012033-06-012033-07-012033-08-012033-09-012033-10-012033-11-012033-12-012034-01-012034-02-012034-03-012034-04-012034-05-012034-06-012034-07-012034-08-012034-09-012034-10-012034-11-012034-12-012035-01-012035-02-012035-03-012035-04-012035-05-012035-06-012035-07-012035-08-012035-09-012035-10-012035-11-012035-12-012036-01-012036-02-012036-03-012036-04-012036-05-012036-06-012036-07-012036-08-012036-09-012036-10-012036-11-012036-12-012037-01-012037-02-012037-03-012037-04-012037-05-012037-06-012037-07-012037-08-012037-09-012037-10-012037-11-012037-12-01
Randolph Kids Performing Arts DAY CAMP Dance Video SUMMER CAMP - Dance Industry Intensive - IN PERSON Aug 22 - Aug 26, 2022 • Downtown, Toronto • Age 11 to 14 (Coed) • From $450 TorontoDowntownDowntownOntario Come join us for an inspiring week dancing with professionals from all industries. Read more view details	,154,5,22,257,259,258,165,265,288,360,9,daycamp,coed,	450	11-14	2022-08-01
Radiant Girls DAY CAMP Leadership Girls Empowerment Camp Aug 15 - Aug 19, 2022 • Burlington, ON • Age 8 to 12 (Girls) • From $499 BurlingtonOntario Fun wellness activities layered with empowering coaching to build positive self-image, emotional intelligence and confidence. Read more view details	,10,5,9,173,123,69,88,2,91,33,275,145,24,19,320,1,153,319,329,276,87,28,3,161,daycamp,allgirls,	499	8-12	2022-08-01
Crusaders Rugby Club DAY CAMP Rugby Crusaders Mini's Summer Camps Jul 04 - Aug 26, 2022 • Oakville, ON • Age 5 to 12 (Coed) • From $200 OakvilleOntario These camps will introduce the basics of rugby and explore the game rules in a fun and interactive way for ages 5-12 Read more view details	,194,3,347,daycamp,coed,	200	5-12	2022-07-012022-08-01
Randolph Kids Performing Arts DAY CAMP Performing Arts Superheros SUMMER CAMP - Superheroes - IN PERSON Aug 02 - Aug 05, 2022 • Downtown, Toronto • Age 6 to 8 (Coed) • From $375 TorontoDowntownDowntownOntario This fun-filled multi-activity camp features hip hop, acro, parkour, yoga, acting, crafts, games and challenges. Read more view details	,258,5,22,165,197,345,59,288,10,9,328,3,161,daycamp,coed,	375	6-8	2022-08-01
Le Petit Écolier French Language Centre PROGRAM Languages Big Kids - French Immersion Support/DELF Blend Jan 11 - Mar 31, 2022 • Oakville, ON • Age 8 to 10 (Coed) • From $286 OakvilleOntario Is your child in grade 4 French Immersion or about to enter? We help our students excel in the French Immersion program. Read more view details	,196,2,32,79,programclass,coed,	286	8-10	2022-01-012022-02-012022-03-01
Camp Mère Clarac OVERNIGHT Traditional Languages Boys \| Summer Overnight Camp \| 2022 Jul 03 - Aug 12, 2022 • Saint-Donat, QC • Age 5 to 12 (Boys) • From $598 Saint-DonatQuebec « Joie de vivre » at camp Mère Clarac is discovering, exploring and having fun! Read more view details	,48,6,170,59,5,288,10,9,173,123,24,2,8,3,11,347,12,26,54,58,63,28,29,221,139,16,322,56,188,0,79,overnightcamp,allboys,	598	5-12	2022-07-012022-08-01
Camp Solelim OVERNIGHT Traditional Camp Solelim Summer 2022 Jul 03 - Aug 16, 2022 • Sudbury, ON • Age 13 to 15 (Coed) • From $7,500 SudburyOntario In our program designed exclusively for teens, campers discover a world of growth, connection and community. Read more view details	,298,6,170,41,81,256,5,282,133,259,22,258,165,138,37,175,147,176,285,150,265,288,289,59,291,10,9,123,33,2,91,275,314,268,19,321,1,226,320,153,276,15,3,322,16,31,56,64,11,347,12,327,323,28,29,54,74,139,260,63,326,161,366,358,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	7500	13-15	2022-07-012022-08-01
Randolph Kids Performing Arts DAY CAMP Dance SUMMER CAMP The Next Step Dance - IN PERSON Aug 08 - Aug 12, 2022 • Downtown, Toronto • Age 9 to 11 (Coed) • From $450 TorontoDowntownDowntownOntario In this high energy, all-levels dance camp, we’ll take inspiration from pieces you loved from the show to create our own. Read more view details	,259,5,22,258,165,265,288,360,9,daycamp,coed,	450	9-11	2022-08-01
Hockey Opportunity Camp OVERNIGHT Waterski/Wakeboard Water Ski + (Traditional) Camp Program Jul 03 - Aug 27, 2022 • Huntsville, ON • Age 10 to 16 (Coed) • From $1,375 HuntsvilleOntario Campers enjoy 3 hours of water skiing daily, plus 1 camp activity and fitness and wellness training. Read more view details	,48,6,81,320,1,153,276,8,3,63,347,324,36,346,16,322,25,31,49,56,64,161,overnightcamp,coed,	1375	10-16	2022-07-012022-08-01
Randolph Kids Performing Arts DAY CAMP Performing Arts Singing/Vocal SUMMER CAMP - Pop Masters- IN PERSON Aug 02 - Aug 05, 2022 • Downtown, Toronto • Age 7 to 10 (Coed) • From $375 TorontoDowntownDowntownOntario Build confidence, performance and vocal skills in a small pop and rock ensemble. Read more view details	,258,5,22,165,150,37,360,9,328,3,161,288,daycamp,coed,	375	7-10	2022-08-01
Bayview Glen Camp DAY CAMP Sailing/Marine Sailing Camp Jul 05 - Aug 19, 2022 • North-York, Toronto • Age 7 to 13 (Coed) • From $600 TorontoNorth-YorkNorth-YorkOntario Sailing Camp provides campers with an opportunity to get on the lake for a week of fun in sailboats at Cherry Beach! Read more view details	,276,1,49,3,322,daycamp,coed,	600	7-13	2022-07-012022-08-01
The Taylor Statten Camps OVERNIGHT Traditional Full Session (July & August) Jul 02 - Aug 25, 2022 • Algonquin Park, ON • Age 7 to 16 (Coed) • From $11,995 Algonquin ParkOntario A combination of diverse in camp programming and Canoe Tripping Read more view details	,48,6,41,81,154,5,22,257,259,258,165,175,37,59,288,10,9,123,174,226,1,8,3,11,347,12,16,322,25,28,30,31,151,222,221,49,54,74,56,58,161,363,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	11995	7-16	2022-07-012022-08-01
Mi-A-Kon-Da OVERNIGHT Traditional Introduction to Overnight Summer Camp - Stepping Stones Jun 24 - Jun 26, 2022 • Parry Sound, ON • Age 6 to 8 (Girls) • From $250 Parry SoundOntario For girls who are looking to take the first step in their overnight camping experience check out our Stepping Stones program. Read more view details	,48,6,147,5,37,59,288,10,9,24,2,16,3,322,31,49,56,8,28,221,188,0,overnightcamp,allgirls,	250	6-8	2022-06-01
Fraser Lake Camp OVERNIGHT Traditional Weekly Overnight Camp Jul 05 - Aug 21, 2022 • Bancroft, ON • Age 8 to 16 (Coed) • From $476 BancroftOntario Join the FLC community this summer and experience a close-knit summer camp; while rock climbing, swimming, and more! Read more view details	,41,6,10,5,9,321,1,8,3,12,347,327,223,54,63,28,221,16,322,31,188,0,overnightcamp,coed,	476	8-16	2022-07-012022-08-01
Randolph Kids Performing Arts DAY CAMP Vlogging Video SUMMER CAMP - YouTube Stars - IN PERSON Aug 22 - Aug 26, 2022 • Downtown, Toronto • Age 9 to 11 (Coed) • From $450 TorontoDowntownDowntownOntario Create videos, play fun improv games and make new friends in our studio, including a green screen! Read more view details	,360,5,9,338,daycamp,coed,	450	9-11	2022-08-01

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Ourkids.net: List of camps and programs that help kids grow in courage

Definitions of courage

“Courage is the ability to stand in the face of and move through experiences of adversity, uncertainty and uncomfortable feelings like anxiety, fear and pain,” says Sarde Matti, a registered clinical social worker who works with youth and young adults experiencing mental health complications. Courage is a precursor to confidence and resilience in her view. “It’s so easy to fall into a critical narrative of ourselves. Courageous behaviour [rewards us] with confidence,” she explains. “If we take steps to move through uncomfortable feelings we can show ourselves at any point in life that we have the capacity to bounce back, instead of allowing those feelings to burden us or hold us back from achieving our goals.”

Ask Hailey, a former camper at Radiant Girls, and she’ll tell you that courage consists of “putting others before yourself and just doing the right thing before it’s even asked.” She believes courage she's developed in camp helps her in difficult situations, and encourages her to take ownership of mistakes.

What does courage look like?

Sometimes, even in adulthood, Matti explains, “we’re prevented from doing things that make us uncomfortable or vulnerable, whereas children are naturally inquisitive, explorative and curious. Childhood is the optimal time to develop [courage] so it can be refined as time goes on.” The skill of courage, she believes, can grow throughout our lives as we diversify our experiences.

Very young children interpret courage as the ability to demonstrate bravery in fearful situations, such as going on a rollercoaster or learning to ride a bike. As they get older, they begin to associate courage with psychological fears, the risks involved and whether or not they can overcome it. Examples of this include standing up to bullying, owning up to a mistake or asking for help when you need support. Courage provides an individual with the ability to step out of their comfort zone and move past negative feelings or thoughts. “Being able to say I need help or support, being able to be vulnerable and share your thoughts and experiences is so courageous,” according to Matti. “I think if you look for it, you can see courage in everyday moments.”

Courage provides an individual with the ability to step out of their comfort zone and move past negative feelings or thoughts.

Hailey illustrates from her Radiant Girls’ experience how she learned courage in the past. “When I was rock climbing, I got blisters from the rope,” she says, “I was a bit moody about it and I was being rude to the other girls.” Gina Faubert, director of Radiant Girls camp, pulled her aside for a chat. “I was afraid that if I said sorry, their opinion wouldn’t change and it wouldn’t mean a thing.” Gina told Hailey that it would be courageous of her to do the right thing. It was a lesson that stuck with her.

As we get older, we begin to associate courage with psychological challenges. Maddy Wells took on just such a challenge when she took part in an Outward Bound West Coast Discovery course in Clayoquot Sound. The point of Outward Bound programs is precisely to get young people out of their comfort zones. For her, the physical difficulties of the Outward Bound course were prodigious, but the bigger challenge was overcoming her own feelings of limitation. Outward Bound helps older kids challenge those limits, just as they’re learning about who they are and where they fit in the world. Like Wells, teens in these programs often discover they can exceed those challenges. At the end of it, she says, “I felt so much peace. I had done something I never thought I could achieve. I had told myself my whole life that someone such as myself could never deserve an experience like this, but I was wrong. I learned a lot about myself ... I had the ability to empower others and myself, and I had the strength to push myself mentally and physically further than I believed possible.”

How to develop courage

Kids develop courage when they persevere through uncertainty or uncomfortable feelings. Although new environments can create negative emotions and challenges, it’s important to expose them to settings that will foster and develop courage. Matti believes that social environments “naturally diversify a child’s experiences [because] children are exposed to new people, settings and activities.”

Camps and recreational programs are particularly unique, in her opinion, because “[they foster] courage building by allowing children to explore through play and fun without the added, perceived pressure of performance that might accompany a more traditional, academic setting.”

Similarly, Hailey believes she learned one-of-a-kind lessons in courage through camp. “It really changed me as a person,” she says. One activity in particular resonated strongly with her.

She explains, “[Gina] told us to write a letter to our so-called enemy and just write all the nasty things we could think of them, and then afterwards, we’d crumple it up and burn it.” The exercise was symbolic of forgiving yourself and the other person you might have negative feelings towards. “That’s something that really stuck with me,” she says.

Matti believes an effective way to teach courage to children is to model it yourself. “Children are so impressionable”, she says. “If they see people in their environment doing courageous acts by working through adversities and feelings like anxiety or fear, it’s definitely influential and encouraging the child’s own behaviour.”

She suggests that parents can have a discussion with children wherein they explain courage and demonstrate what it looks like. From there, they can encourage kids to exercise courage in their day-to-day life. Daily examples of courage can include participating in a class discussion, asking a friend for help on a homework question, or trying out for their school’s soccer team.

However, Matti also recommends reframing some situations for children, to show them when they are displaying courage to help them make the connection. For example, consider the child playing their first soccer game who may be typically critical of their rookie performance. “Show the child that they were actually demonstrating courage by taking initiative to engage in something new and move through feelings of anxiety or fear”, she says. “This is important to help them realize their own capacity for skill-building and to help them recognize that within themselves.”

Finally, she stresses the importance of giving yourself permission to be imperfect.

“Today in the digital age … children are influenced in regards to how to act, how to behave, what to purchase, etc. Creating safety for a child to be able to question and bring up those experiences is really important.” When your child demonstrates courage, boost this behaviour as much as possible. If your child falls off course, take the opportunity to give positive feedback and teach them there’s value in learning from the experience. Remember to support your child and let them know that you are there for them, every step of the way.

What are the benefits of courage?

Courage builds confidence and resilience, while also encouraging children to persevere in the face of adversity. Matti has worked with many youth who have mental health difficulties. For many of these kids, courage sets the stage for learning. “As we age and at any point in our lives, it’s so natural for us to fear the unknown and to avoid things that make us uncomfortable. If we can continue to question things and diversify our experiences then we’re always setting the stage for learning.”

Courage is a key aspect of leadership, she adds. “The individuals who are taking risks”, she says, “who are making practice changes, who are making suggestions for quality improvement and innovation...these are all acts of courage!” Courage is an integral leadership skill when someone moves through feelings of doubt or fear, towards an attitude that makes them feel like they can accomplish what they put their mind to.

Patience is key

Courage is a skill nurtured and developed as kids mature. Matti highlights the importance of acknowledging that sometimes, “the impacts of our acts of courage aren’t always seen right away.” It has ripple effects over time. “Don’t be discouraged and don’t allow children to be discouraged if they don’t have immediate gratification from that courageous act. Continue practicing that because it could have more of an impact than you know.”

She encourages individuals to try and identify courage within themselves.

“Don’t misinterpret the anxiety, the fear, the pain or uncertainty as not having the capacity for courage. It’s the act of moving through these feelings that truly gives definition to courage,” she says.

Want your child to grow in courage?

Camp is a great environment for fostering and developing courage because it exposes children to new experiences that may initially cause hesitancy, nervousness or doubt. At camp, your child will be required to work with others and participate in new activities, itself a demonstration of courage. This environment will help your child move through their negative feelings and gain confidence, resilience and leadership skills.

SERIES:

In the spotlight:

How literate are Canadian students?
They can read, but when it comes to functional literacy—expressing ideas, crafting arguments—some feel that students could, and should, be doing better. [Read more]

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The Essential Parent Guide to Summer Camps

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