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Technology and Camps – Should Children Have Access to Phones and the Internet?

Malwina Papuga
2025-07-29
Nowadays, technology is an inseparable part of the lives of children and teenagers, even during trips to camps and holiday colonies. More and more often, the question arises whether we should allow the use of phones and the internet in such settings. On the one hand, they provide a sense of security and a way to stay in touch with loved ones; on the other hand, they can be distracting and make it harder to truly connect with peers and engage with nature.
Technology and Camps – Should Children Have Access to Phones and the Internet?

Pros of Access to Technology at Camp
Access to phones and the internet during camp can bring many benefits for both participants and their parents. First and foremost, it allows for constant contact with family, which gives children a sense of security and lets parents check in on how their kids are doing. In emergency situations, having access to a phone enables quick help or consultation with counselors and emergency services.

Technology also allows for documenting special moments — photos and videos help capture memories from the trip, which can later be shared and revisited together. What’s more, during free time, a phone or tablet can serve as a source of entertainment and education. Children can play creativity-boosting games, use educational apps, or read e-books, making their free time both enjoyable and valuable.

 

Cons and Risks
Although technology offers many advantages, its presence at camp also comes with certain risks. One of the most common issues is the distraction it causes, which can lead to less engagement in group activities and make it harder for children to fully enjoy the camp experience. Excessive use of phones or tablets can also result in screen addiction, causing kids to lose touch with nature and the real world around them.

Another serious concern is the risk of cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate online content, which young campers may encounter, especially if there’s a lack of proper supervision. Additionally, many children struggle with managing their screen time independently, which can lead to excessive use of technology.

Finally, too much focus on electronic devices can hinder group integration, weaken the development of peer relationships, and limit participation in social activities — which are, after all, one of the most important aspects of the camp experience.

 

How to Set Rules for Phone and Internet Use at Camp
To ensure technology doesn’t interfere with enjoying camp to the fullest, it’s important to introduce clear and transparent rules from the very beginning. A good idea is to set a limited time for device use — for example, designating specific hours when children can use their phones, and establishing “tech-free zones” during meals or group activities.

Counselors play a key role in enforcing these rules. They should consistently remind participants of the guidelines and explain their purpose so that the children understand why the restrictions are necessary. Counselors can also encourage safe and mindful use of technology by teaching children how to protect their privacy and avoid inappropriate content.

Collecting phones during group sessions or excursions is another effective solution, as it helps kids stay focused on offline interaction and activities. This balanced approach allows for a blend of modern tools and a traditional, immersive camp experience.

 

Alternatives to Technology
To minimize screen time at camp, it’s worth offering fun and engaging offline alternatives. Team-building games are a great way to strengthen group bonds, break the ice, and develop communication and cooperation skills. Activities like scavenger hunts, charades, or various movement-based contests can provide a lot of joy and excitement while keeping participants fully offline.

Sports activities — such as soccer, volleyball, or trail running — help kids burn off energy, build physical fitness, and engage in healthy competition, which positively impacts their well-being and group integration. Additionally, creative workshops — painting, crafts, theater, or music — help children explore their passions, imagination, and manual skills, giving them a sense of accomplishment through hands-on creation.

Thanks to such activities, children can fully enjoy the benefits of spending time outdoors and among peers, promoting their development and creating positive memories that will stay with them long after camp ends.

 

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