Every summer, I try to take a week off to go camping with my kids. It’s not just about escaping the city heat or dodging the endless emails—it’s a chance to unplug and see what real quality time feels like. Last weekend was no different. We pitched our tents by a quiet lake, far enough to lose cell signal but close enough to the car for an emergency ice cream run. Between setting up the campsite, cooking on a portable stove, and fishing, I realized that these moments are where patience isn’t just a virtue—it’s a necessity. Kids get restless, weather shifts unexpectedly, and gear always needs adjusting. But it’s in those practical challenges that the real bonding happens, away from screens and schedules.

The day-to-day demands of outdoor life teach lessons that stick. For example, waking up early to gather firewood or teaching kids how to safely use a pocket knife brings responsibility into clear focus. It’s also a reminder that technology can’t replace simple skills and face-to-face interaction. Watching my kids struggle to start a fire or unpack their gear themselves made me appreciate how much they grow when given trust and space. Plus, it’s refreshing to see their natural curiosity without the distraction of a screen in front of their eyes.

Summer camps also reinforce my role as a parent in a practical way. It’s not just about fun and adventure; it’s about teaching resilience. When the unexpected rain soaked our supplies, it became a lesson in improvisation—using tarps for shelter, reorganizing the campsite, and keeping spirits up by planning indoor games. It reminded me that parenting, much like camping, isn’t about controlling every detail but adapting with a clear head. These lessons from the wilderness come home too, especially when managing daily challenges with kids and family life.