Researchers Say Quality Summer Camp Programs Can Help Promote Continued Learning and Healthy Habits during School Break

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz, April 19, 2018 -- With the end of the school year fast approaching, many parents and caregivers are searching for ways to keep their children moving, learning, and having fun during the summer school break. Ongoing research underlines the important role that quality summer camp programs can play in promoting academic success and a healthy lifestyle. The National Center on Afterschool and Summer Enrichment states that high-quality summer learning programs can not only curb summer learning loss, they can even help boost student achievement.   And the effect on health can be just as dramatic, according to Alex Bingham, president and CEO of  The Little Gym.

With a wide variety of programs available, Bingham offers the following advice. “While it’s important to choose a program your child will enjoy, it’s also important to find a program that will help curb summer learning loss and keep your child active, involved, and moving,” says Bingham. “Look for a fun and imaginative camp program that includes both physical and educational activities that will reinforce your child’s academic achievements, challenge your child’s imagination, and develop your child’s self-confidence.”

Early childhood development specialists at child-centered facilities like The Little Gym offer high quality, age-appropriate, interest-driven summer programs designed to help children learn new skills and build self-confidence as they master challenges. Flexible scheduling options allow parents to enroll their children for as little as a day, or as long as the entire summer. Age-appropriate activities at the Super Quest Summer Camp vary from week-to-week, offering children ages 3 to 8 years a fresh experience each time. Interest-driven Skill Thrill camps allow children ages 6 to 12 years to repeat a camp as they refine certain skills. Parents can also register their child for one of The Little Gym’s regular scheduled summer classes for kids four months through 12 years to keep children moving, learning, and building skills throughout the summer months.

“Choosing the right summer camp can make a real difference in how well your child is able to transition from the summer break into the new school year,” adds Bingham. “While the summer break should offer families a chance to relax without the constant pressure of school, homework, and after-school schedules, it’s important to offer children alternatives to screen time and other passive activities that can erode both academic skills and physical fitness. Summer camps provide an opportunity for children to unplug as they explore their own creativity and build independence in a safe, secure environment.”

For more information, or to register for summer camps and classes, please go to www.TheLittleGym.com.

About The Little Gym
The Little Gym is an internationally recognized program that helps children build the developmental skills and confidence needed at each stage of childhood. The very first location was established in 1976 by Robin Wes, an innovative educator with a genuine love for children.  The Little Gym International, Inc., headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., was formed in 1992 to franchise The Little Gym concept.   Today, The Little Gym International has over 395 locations in 32 countries.  For more information, visit The Little Gym at https://www.TheLittleGym.com.

Heather Anderson
The Little Gym International
(480) 948-2878
[email protected]