With Spring Break fast approaching, it is time to start thinking about what kids are going to do for the holiday. Given that family vacations may be off the table, it is great to know camps are an option.

People may think that Spring Break camps do not give kids a holiday from school life; however, there are actually many mental and physical benefits to participating in a camp program, especially during a time of reduced social interactions.

Here are just five benefits of sending your child to a Spring Break camp this year:

An opportunity to try something new

Camps are perfect ways to sample new interests or learn new skills, without disrupting already busy schedules. Typically in just one week, kids can try a new sport, an art class, a language or develop a skill.

A break from the daily routine

Although camps are scheduled programs, they are fun and challenging in ways that break from the usual school day activities. Meeting new friends, experiencing a new environment and learning from an experienced camp instructor, gives kids a healthy dose of programming to keep them happy and productive, while still learning.

Reduced screen time

With so many forms of digital media that keep kids distracted, we are all keen to find effective ways to keep children off their screens. Camps keep kids engaged and are designed to limit screen time.

Keep active

Camps are a great way to stimulate your kids physically and mentally. We want our kids to live balanced lives, so we need to give them opportunities to stay active, particularly if their preferred activity is more stationary.

Making friends and socializing

There is no better way to make or connect with friends than through a shared camp experience. Camps are a safe and engaging place to practise and build social skills with friends of the same age who share common interests.

When you are deciding about enrolling your child in a Spring Break camp, consider these, and so many other benefits; your child will thank you for it.


The External Programs department at SMUS offers holiday enrichment programs available to all youth aged 5 to 17 in Greater Victoria. Our learning opportunities emphasize skill development, participation, cooperation and fun!

This Spring Break, we're offering a wide variety of camps no matter your child's interest – creative writing, French, coding, sewing, dance theatre, marine biology, sports and more! To view our full list of camps and to register, please visit our CampBrain registration portal.