Mah Nishtanah: How is Jewish Camp Different From All Others?

It is true, every single year for over 20 years, I have run a Jewish summer camp. And, yes, when I write about sending your kids to Jewish camps, yes, it will sound like I am advertising the JCC’s camps. Let’s face it, I am. A bit. But I spend every single summer at Jewish camp, because I believe in them. The JCC believes in them. We believe they are great experiences for your kids and we believe Jewish camp is an important component of Jewish life. Statistics show that camp experiences are one of the top three indicators that our kids will remain engaged with Jewish life.

Whether it is the JCC camp or another, let me tell you what is so great about Jewish camp

As we can all attest, our contemporary lives are busy and everyday our kids are surrounded by American culture. A Jewish camp experience allows us just a few weeks to enmesh our kids in Jewish experiences and Jewish friends. While our kids are running, playing, swimming, busy with arts and science and all the camp fun, they are doing it surrounded by Jewish friends, Jewish role models, Jewish values and traditions.

Jewish Traditions: Jewish Culture
Universally, Jewish camp starts with a raucous rendition of Hatikvah, the Israeli anthem expressing “Hope”. Meals begin with an equally spirited “Hamotzi” and of course, each camp week ends with a "haimish" (warm) Shabbat celebration with delicious challah. In fact, kids get to make their own challah, pita and hummus. Hebrew, music, dance are integrated into each day. Ga-ga, a high energy Israel ball game, becomes a normal part of camp and sport lexicon. The more players the better!

Israeli Days are common with the sights and sounds of our homeland. Jewish camps takes the opportunity to share what Shabbat and life looks like in Israeli homes.

Why is Jewish Camp Different from all others?
Culture, values, traditions are equally balanced with fun, friends, learning and exercise. Jewish camps  fill a fundamental need in our community: providing a positive Jewish environment and serving as a launch pad for engagement in Jewish life.