I love summer camp. If “lifelong camp counselor” were a career, I think it would be my calling. There’s just something about living in a cozy cabin, eating in a packed dining hall, swimming in a lake every day and hanging out around the campfire.

Now, you may be thinking, “Why in the world are we talking about summer camp? It’s only March!” But believe it or not, it’s already time to start looking into different camp options for your kiddos and getting them signed up (check out our Ultimate Guide to Summer Camps & Classes).

But back to my love for camp.

Nowadays, I believe one of the very best things about good old-fashioned, classic summer camp is the lack of technology. Your kids may (most likely) disagree, but forcing them to unplug for a week or so of the summer is really one of the best things you could do for them.

When I had a summer job as a camp counselor during college, the kids (from second grade all the way through high school) had to turn over any devices to mom and dad as they were getting dropped off. Now, I’m not sure that every camp has these sort of rules, but as a counselor, I was thankful for them.

It’s so much easier to get middle schoolers to connect with each other when their faces aren’t in their phones. And truth be told, there’s so much happening at camp that you really shouldn’t even have time to text your pals back home.

It’s not just phones — without TV, evenings are spent stargazing, painting nails, crafting, enjoying a second dessert and laughing until your stomach hurts. Although sending a child away to camp may be a little nerve-wracking, it can be a healthy experience (check out this article for more about that).

Memories are made when there is a change from routine, and summer camp provides just that. Granted, homesickness is always a possibility. But one thing I learned as a counselor is that sending your child to camp with just one friend can make all the difference.

Or, if you’re just not ready to let go, it’s always a good idea to go family camping.

Whatever kind of camp your child chooses, he or she is sure to come back with stories and memories that last a lifetime. (And it never hurts to practice making s’mores before it’s time for camp.)

Happy camping!