Bringing Camp Home: Five Ways to Unplug from Electronics

In a world dominated by technology, finding opportunities to unplug and reconnect as a family has become more crucial than ever. At Camp Takodah this is one of the most important parts of creating memorable experiences for our campers. Taking a break from screens and engaging in analog activities not only fosters stronger bonds but also creates cherished memories that last a lifetime. Not to mention that it feels nice to take a tech break. Here are five delightful activities found at camp that you can do at home that encourage disconnection from technology while bringing the family together.

Family-Style Meal:

Bring the spirit of camp to your dining table by having a family-style meal. Your camper can set the table like they would as a waitron, then gather around as a family, and pass dishes family-style, just like you would at camp. This communal way of dining encourages conversation, sharing, and a sense of togetherness. At the end of the meal, have your camper show you how we clear at camp and maybe even have them lead you in a classic song from our dining hall. Make sure to check out our songbook and Soundcloud!

Siesta Time:

Treat your family to a delightful lunch followed by a tranquil family siesta. Encourage bonding with quiet activities like card games, letter writing, or collaborative drawings. To keep the authentic camp feel, let your camper choose a post-siesta family activity. Consider making this a cherished weekend tradition to truly reconnect with your camp roots! 

Camp Skills Showcase:

Empower your camper to take on the role of the leader by having them teach the family a skill they learned at camp during their classes or camper choice period. Whether it’s creating friendship bracelets, tying knots, or demonstrating a favorite camp game, this activity not only showcases their newfound skills and knowledge but also boosts their confidence. It’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to learn from each other and appreciate the unique talents within the family.

Reflections at Home:

At the end of the day, gather your family for a quiet and reflective moment. Pose a question that encourages each family member to share their thoughts and experiences from the day. This can be a simple question like, “What was the highlight of your day?” or “What are you grateful for today?” These moments of reflection not only promote mindfulness but also create a space for open communication and understanding within the family.

Homemade S’mores Night:

Recreate the cozy and nostalgic experience of making s’mores around a campfire right at home. You can build a campfire in the backyard and let your camper show you their fire starting skills or use the stovetop to toast marshmallows. Create a s’mores station with graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows and then share stories, laughter, and gooey s’mores as you indulge in this classic camping treat.

In a world where technology often takes center stage, these activities provide a refreshing break for families to connect, communicate, and create lasting memories together while doing fun camp activities. By intentionally setting aside time to disconnect and engage in these simple yet meaningful activities, families can strengthen their bonds and build a treasure trove of experiences that transcend the digital realm just like a summer at Camp Takodah.