Child Development Tips

Two teenage girls pointing and laughing at another teen girl.

Nurturing Conflict Resolution Skills In Teens

A lot is happening during the teenage years. Puberty, mood changes, identity formation, increased socialization outside of the family, and increased autonomy make it a time of great transformation. With these changes, conflict becomes inevitable. It is essential for teens to receive guidance on how to navigate conflict properly and effectively. Learning how to deal with conflict early on allows teens to develop productive communication skills, fostering healthy relationships now and in the future. In this blog, we will explore practical ways parents and caregivers can help teens with conflict […]

Camp Kupugani Tips for Parents Empowering Children with ADHD

Parenting Strategies To Empower Children With ADHD

When we talk about “diversity” at Camp Kupugani, we mean it in every sense of the word. We celebrate not just cultural and racial diversity but also the diverse ways in which kids think, process, and experience the world. That’s why we’re keen to observe October as National ADHD Awareness Month and shed light on how summer camps like ours can be a haven for kids with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Our core values—excellence, empowerment, community, fun, safety, and environment—serve as guiding principles that align well with the needs […]

Mom comforts crying daughter, Camp Kupugani blog post.

Nurturing Emotional Intelligence In Children

Emotional intelligence, often referred to as EQ, is just as crucial as IQ in today’s world. While intelligence quotient (IQ) pertains to cognitive abilities, EQ revolves around recognizing, understanding, managing, and effectively expressing personal emotions and understanding those of others. At Camp Kupugani, a multicultural summer camp nestled in the beautiful heart of Leaf River, Illinois, the focus isn’t just on adventure and fun but also on building EQ among campers. Discover actionable insights for parents seeking guidance on raising children with emotional intelligence qualities. Emphasize Empathy At Camp Kupugani, […]

camp-kupugani-mom-dad-sons-doing-homework-at-the-kitchen-table-back-to-school

A Parent’s Guide To Motivating Success At School

With the new school year in full session, teachers are harnessing their superhero capabilities once again. They dedicate their time and energy to educating future generations, and want to see all of their students succeed. Parents also want what is best for their children. One of the best ways parents can ensure children get the most out of their education is to work with them at home to set them up for success in school, and work collaboratively with teachers to show their support. Explore some helpful tips for parents […]

A white boy and girl siblings reading books outdoor alone on a blanket with snacks.

The Power Of Alone Time: Nurturing Children’s Independence

In a world bustling with constant connectivity and stimulation, it can be challenging for children to find moments of solitude and introspection. At Camp Kupugani, we recognize the importance of alone time for children’s development and well-being. By providing a supportive and nurturing environment that encourages solo exploration, we empower campers to cultivate their independence, discover their inner strengths, and develop a deeper understanding of themselves. Join us as we delve into the significance of alone time for children and how Camp Kupugani facilitates this invaluable experience. Self-Reflection & Emotional […]

Kids building life skills by assisting mom with laundry.

Easy Activities That Teach Young Kids Practical Life Skills

Parents can often underestimate the value of involving their young children in daily chores and tasks. However, these activities present a golden opportunity to teach them practical life skills in a fun and engaging way. By providing the right tools and allowing them to explore independently, children gain a sense of accomplishment and develop essential skills that will serve them well into adulthood. In this blog, we’ll explore a range of easy activities that will help your little one acquire practical life skills while having a great time! Setting The […]

A group of kids at a dance class perfecting their dance routine.

Are You Raising A Perfectionist?

There are certain things we do as parents because we believe that we are acting in our kids’ best interests. Other times, we do things because we feel pressured to act in a certain way to ensure that we align with social, cultural, educational, or even family-related expectations. But here’s the thing: Expecting perfection from our kids than they can achieve ultimately leads them to develop a self-critical attitude and what has been referred to as “maladaptive perfectionism.” Science says that pushing our kids too far can increase their quest […]

A black father consulting his son with fear-based-parenting.

How To Move Away From Fear-Based Parenting

A parent’s instinct to protect their child is natural, but in today’s world, fear seems to be everywhere. Overcoming fear-based parenting is essential for allowing our children to grow strong and independent. In this blog, we will explore some simple tips to help anxious parents let go of fear and foster their children’s independence. Challenging Preconceptions Research conducted at UC–Irvine sheds light on why people tend to worry when they see children unsupervised. It turns out that moral judgments play a significant role in assuming danger. However, it’s crucial to […]

A black girl and white boy and girl building healthy habits by eating a healthy watermelon outside.

3 Daily Habits For Kids: Eat, Play, & Sleep!

We all want to feel our best, both physically and mentally. At Camp Kupugani, we believe that there are three daily habits for kids that are essential for achieving this goal: eating healthy foods, being active every day, and getting the right amount of sleep. When you make these three habits a regular part of your daily routine, you will notice a significant improvement in your mood, energy levels, and overall sense of well-being. Let’s take a closer look at each of these daily habits and how you can incorporate […]

An Asian kid displaying low self-esteem in a classroom.

Building Self-Esteem In Kids: Why It Matters & How Parents Can Help

Sometimes it’s easy to notice when kids seem to feel good about themselves — and when they don’t. We often describe this idea of feeling good about ourselves as “self-esteem.” Kids with self-esteem: Kids with low self-esteem: Why Self-Esteem Matters Kids who feel good about themselves have the confidence to try new things. They are more likely to try their best. They feel proud of what they can do. Self-esteem helps kids cope with mistakes. It helps kids try again, even if they fail at first. As a result, self-esteem […]

A group of kids hiking in a dense nature trail.

Hiking With Kids: Tips For A Fun & Safe Adventure

At Camp Kupugani, we believe that spending time outdoors with your family is one of the best ways to grow closer and create lifelong memories. And what better way to do that than by hitting the trails and exploring the great outdoors together? Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, hiking with kids can be a fun and rewarding experience for everyone. Here are some tips to make sure your next family hike is a success: Have Fun And Be Flexible Remember that the goal of your hike […]

Two young boys playing video games intensely.

Is Your Child Addicted To Video Games?

Are you worried that your child may be addicted to video games? Recognizing the signs of addiction is the first step to helping your child. At Camp Kupugani, we offer a safe and supportive environment to help your child empower and improve themselves. In this article, we’ll outline the signs of video game addiction and ways you can help your child. Signs Of Video Game Addiction First, it’s important to understand that gaming addiction isn’t just about the amount of time spent playing. An hour a day on any device […]