This year’s summer camps across the district are redefining what a “break” from school looks like. Organisers are going beyond art and sport to integrate life lessons, value education, and real-world skills—a shift they say is much needed for today’s generation.

At Sri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara English Medium School, the camp took a bold new turn. Instead of traditional games, students were taught etiquette, hygiene, and practical routines like folding clothes, organising cupboards, tying hair ribbons, fixing shirt buttons, and even how to welcome guests. “The management rejected conventional ideas. We had to innovate,” said headmistress Parimala MV, adding that these lessons are already showing results—like kids brushing without reminders.

The school also encouraged empathy and family bonding with sessions on caring for elders and grandparents. The camp wrapped up with a food mela, where students sold homemade items to the public—proceeds going to social causes supported by the school.

Educator Anjana Kamath emphasized that camps must go beyond school-like routines. “With children glued to screens and disconnected from nature, we need to bring back real-world play,” she said. Her camp includes farm visits, kayaking, and outdoor explorations—activities schools usually can’t offer.

Meanwhile, Canara Cultural Academy is hosting a summer camp that blends sports, overnight camping, outdoor boot camps, and cooking, offering children varied ways to learn, bond, and grow beyond the classroom.

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