Summer Camps

A Social Worker's Perspective

As we know from clinical experience, and extensive literature, to be included and accepted by teenage friends is probably the most important factor – after actual physical appearance – that contributes to self-esteem. Given the outright rejection related to delays in emotional development as well as short stature and dysmorphic facial features, it is not unusual for a girl with TS to proceed through her teenage years without ever experiencing a close and trusting friendship.  All too often, negative peer group judgments contribute to feelings of inferiority, which can last a lifetime.

The summer months present a respite for girls to overcome difficulties and to interact with other girls sharing the same genetic anomaly and concerns.  Summer recess provides an opportunity to gain independence and confidence from engaging in educational and social programs to foster new skills, friendships, and lasting memories.  Health specific sleep-a-way camps, day camps and learning centers offer counseling and enrichments critical to the social and psychological development of girls with this disorder.

Emotional Intelligence Developed Through Camp Experience
Self-awareness, self-control, empathy, the ability to wait, the ability to listen, cooperate, share and work well with others are predictors of adult success and happiness more than traditional IQ scores according to Daniel Goldman, clinical psychologist and author of "Emotional Intelligence".  Children whose emotional intelligence skills are well-developed tend to be more successful at school, have deper and healthier relationships, grow up to have more fulfilling work lives and become valuable and contributing members of their communities. He asserts these skills can be taught.

• Children away from home with new friends and new challenges can learn to identify their own strengths and abilities, perserverance, and build new life skills.
• Camp counselors model and teach emotional intelligence skills by modeling perserverance, listening, teamwork and appreciation of differences building a feeling of acceptance and the ability to live independently one day.