Salvation Army March-Break Camps Offer an Enriching Experience for Children

Every year many Salvation Army locations across Canada offer March-break camps that help children learn, stay active, and for parents to have affordable alternatives to daycare.

The Salvation Army in St. Thomas, Ont., has been running a March-break camp for over a decade. This year their camp will take place from March 11 to the 15. Registration is open for children between the ages of six to 10.

For Jordan Payler, children and youth coordinator for The Salvation Army in St. Thomas, this is her first year running the program. However, she has been involved with the March-break camp before.

“I’ve been a camper. I have worked as camp staff, and now I run the program,” Jordan shared. Jordan’s experience has allowed her to witness the evolution of camp and to suggest the integration of new activities each year, to ensure campers get a fresh and fun experience every time they attend.

“This is not only a week for children to learn something new, but also a week for children to come, participate, be off a screen, and allow them to engage in games, in one-on-one activities and crafts,” Jordan added.

“A lot of the comments I’ve received from parents is that their kids have such a great experience here at camp.”

St. Thomas’ March-break camp runs like a regular school day. In the morning, children take part in quiet activities such as moulding play dough or playing foosball, while in the afternoon they participate in a musical elective in which the campers can play with drums, sing, or dance. There is also a Bible teaching component included. Campers get snacks and lunch while at camp.

The overall reaction of parents who have sent their children to camp has been positive throughout the years.

“I had parents message me in September asking about camp. So, they’re really excited. A lot of the comments I’ve received from parents is that their kids have such a great experience here at camp,” Jordan said.

“I homeschool my kids. So, it was good for them to have that week away from me so they could have some social interaction.”

Alison Ragoobar, who has previously sent her son and daughter to March-break camp, believes the experience has benefitted her children’s development by improving their confidence and communication skills. Alison homeschools her children, therefore, camp is the perfect chance to encourage them to meet others.

“I homeschool my kids. So, it was good for them to have that week away from me so they could have some social interaction. They’re always happy to go back which is a positive sign,” she said.

Alison recognizes that the availability of this program allows other parents to have an affordable option to send their children to during March break.

“Looking at the perspectives of parents who have kids in school, it gives them an opportunity to have a safe space for their children to go to at a reasonable cost,” Alison said.

Community support is important to maintain the smooth operation of The Salvation Army’s March-break camps. St. Thomas’ camp has over 20 volunteers helping run different aspects of the program.

“Quite a few amazing volunteers have come forward, all from the ages of 14 up into their 40s. They are really excited about our March-break camp this year,” Jordan said.

By Juan Romero