Leadership Training Camps for 2026

What do children learn at leadership training camp?

In leadership training camps, children mature emotionally, mentally, and even spiritually. As they prepare speeches, conduct events, and plan activities, children learn to guide and instruct diverse groups of people. Often, discussions of diversity, equity, and inclusion are part and parcel of camp. Overall, leadership training camps prepare students for the future. Training in public speaking is often integrated into camps. 

While there is a focus on building independence and self-confidence in campers, leadership training is also a lot of fun! Programs integrate arts or sports into the curriculum. Camps also immerse kids in nature, hiking, and other adventurous activities kids love at camp. In all programs, team building is encouraged.

Most leadership programs are coeducational. However, a few are for girls only. These camps focus on female empowerment and boosting female voices. Overnight and day camps are available. Overnight camps are often $1,000 and up, while less expensive options are as low as $200 per week.

Choosing the right leadership training camp

In choosing the best leadership camp, there are many things to consider. First, decide whether an overnight or day camp is best for your child. Overnight camps immerse children in the leadership development process and ensure team bonding. Day camps are another great option, as children have the chance to apply leadership skills to real-life situations back home.

There are also basic leadership programs and leader-in-training (LIT) camps. The latter prepares students to become camp counsellors themselves. Children often shadow other counsellors and lead major camp activities in these programs. 

Why go to leadership training camp?

At leadership camp, children learn life skills that improve their mental and physical wellness. Here are some things children will find in leadership camp:

• Confidence is the most important skill a leader can have. Children must feel confident to resolve any and all situations, no matter how small or large. Guided by counselors, young leaders in training gain confidence in communication skills and learn tactics for resolving conflicts, etc., and they learn how to garner respect from those in their charge. 
• Find out who you are as a student, leader, and individual in these camps. Self-awareness is critical to good leadership. Campers learn to hold themselves accountable for their actions and develop traits like self-regulation, responsibility, and more.  
• Academic benefits. Leadership skills benefit students’ academic performance. Soft skills such as organization, communication, and conflict management are important during independent or collaborative school projects. 
• First-aid training is a unique aspect of leadership training. Children learn basic CPR and first aid skills in many camps. This makes them more reliable leaders.
• It opens up job opportunities as well.  Kids who have been to leadership camp are much more likely to feel called into leadership roles at work and elsewhere.

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