Camping kids do better at school

Children who go camping at least once a year go on to do better at school and are healthier and happier, according to their parents.

Researchers found that four out of five parents thought camping had a positive effect on their children’s education.

The study by the Institute of Education at Plymouth University and the Camping and Caravanning Club, also revealed that 98% of parents believe camping makes their kids appreciate and connect with nature.

According to the research, 95% of parents said their kids were happier when camping and 93% felt that it provided useful skills for later life.

A fifth of parents (20%) said camping gives their kids freedom, independence and confidence

And more than two thirds (68%) felt camping helped their children to enjoy learning in the classroom, because they can share their camping adventures and experiences such as visiting  educational or historical sites.

Some parents (15%) reported that escaping technology was a good thing for their children and one of the benefits of camping.

Parents and children around the UK were asked a series of questions which looked at the educational, psychological and social benefits of the camping experience to children of all ages.

The research was led by Sue Waite, Associate Professor at the Plymouth Institute of Education,

She said; “Interestingly, the parents surveyed believed camping supported the key curriculum subjects of Geography, History and Science and actually, that stacks up because the most common camping activities were natural – such as rock pooling and nature walks – where children were getting to understand ecosystems and identify lifeforms, respecting nature and the environment.”

The children who took part in the research were asked what they love about camping and the most common themes were making and meeting new friends, having fun, playing outside and learning  camping skills. Children also recognised camping’s value for curriculum subjects and for problem solving and working together.

The link between education and camping is the focus of a new campaign, Get Kids Camping, launched today the Camping and Caravanning Club President Julia Bradbury.

Mother-of-three Julia said: “Taking the kids camping is such a great experience for the whole family. We have masses of beautiful scenery on our doorstep in the UK and camping doesn’t have to be expensive (although you can try glamping!).

"It’s a brilliant way of getting our kids out in the fresh air, away from the TV and computers - developing their brains and teaching them to interact with each other and the countryside in different ways. If you haven’t taken your family camping, give it a go – it’s an adventure that won’t disappoint you, and there are hundreds of superb British campsites to choose from.”

During National Camping and Caravanning Week (25-31 May) there will be a series of pop-up campsite roadshows where families can sample camping. They will be able to pitch a tent, enjoy cooking demos, and have a go on cycling, rowing or cross-trainer equipment to simulate the activities campers enjoy while on holiday.

For more information about the Get Kids Camping campaign and the roadshow locations visit www.nccw.co.uk

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