Camp Confidence: 5 Skills Students Build While Having Fun All Summer

Summer camp probably brings to mind popsicle-stained smiles, sun-soaked playgrounds, and bursts of laughter during silly group games. You’d be right! Fun is absolutely a part of memory-building. Beneath the surface of all that joy and activity, something incredible is happening: students are learning skills they will carry with them for life. 

At The Astor, our Broadway Bound Summer Camp is designed for children ages 6–12 to grow socially, emotionally, and creatively — all while having an amazing time. Here’s a closer look at five key skills campers develop through our themed summer programs:

1. Confidence in Self-Expression

Your child may step into a role on stage for the first time. 

They may share their ideas in a group they are not sure they trust yet. 

They may even risk looking silly as they learn new dance steps.

At Broadway Bound, your child will constantly be trying something new, and being cheered on for it! Our goal is to help each camper realize that their voice matters, and they don’t have to be perfect to participate. For some students, our camp will be their first experience standing in the spotlight (literally or figuratively). Broadway Bound fosters safe self-expression, as we know that it will carry into school, friendships, and beyond. 

2. Collaboration and Teamwork

At Broadway Bound, our students learn to compromise, share ideas, listen to others, and to work toward a shared goal. Plenty of theater activities can contribute to these skills, such as putting on a skit, designing a prop, or solving any challenge together! Additionally, group games, creative projects, and ensemble performances all require teamwork. These moments build social awareness and show students the value of cooperation in a hands-on way.

3. Creative Problem-Solving

Theater can be full of curveballs — and that’s a good thing! What happens when a set piece breaks? Or a line gets forgotten mid-performance? Or the group has five minutes to come up with a story twist? 

The show must go on! 

Through these challenges, children build flexible thinking and resilience. They start to see problems as opportunities for creativity and growth, rather than just obstacles. 

4. Empathy and Perspective-Taking

In theater-based play, children often step into characters’ shoes — sometimes literally. They begin to understand different points of view, emotions, and experiences, building emotional intelligence along the way. We create space for meaningful conversations and reflection, which helps campers connect with each other on a deeper level.

5. Independence and Ownership

Our team encourages ownership and responsibility in age-appropriate ways, helping students feel capable and trusted. Whether they’re managing their belongings, following a schedule, or making decisions in a group, campers build independence in a supportive setting. 

The Bottom Line

Summer camp at The Astor is more than just a fun way to pass the time — it’s a thoughtfully designed experience where children grow in confidence, creativity, and character. With a little structure, a lot of encouragement, and an environment full of possibility, campers walk away with more than memories. They leave ready to take on the next school year with a stronger sense of who they are.

🎭 Ready to give your child the gift of confidence? 

Learn more about our Broadway Bound Summer Camp for ages 6–12 here.