Superstars Holiday Camps

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Why It Matters and How Superstars Camps Can Help

 

As parents, we want the best for our children. We want them to grow up safe, confident, and happy. But we also want them to be independent, thinking for themselves, taking responsibility, and knowing how to cope when we’re not around to fix things for them.

 

At Superstars Holiday Camps, independence isn’t just a bonus, it’s part of everything we do. It’s one of the core values in our RISE framework (Resilience, Independence, Social skills, and Enthusiasm), and it underpins how we design our sessions, interact with children, and support their development.

 

In this blog, we’ll explore what independence really means for children, why it’s so important, and how holiday camps like Superstars help children thrive.

 

What Does “Independence” Really Mean for Children?

When we talk about independence in children, we’re not expecting them to go off and do their food shop or pay the electricity bill. Independence, at its core, is about doing age-appropriate things on their own and feeling capable, trusted, and confident while doing them.

It includes things like:

- Getting dressed or packing their own school bag
 

- Making simple decisions without needing approval
 

- Solving small problems without getting overwhelmed
 

- Speaking up in a group or trying something new
 

- Managing emotions and bouncing back from setbacks
 

For a five-year-old, that might mean choosing their snack or deciding which activity to do at camp. For a ten-year-old, it could be navigating new social situations or taking part in a team sport without needing constant reassurance.

It’s all part of growing up, and when nurtured properly, independence sets the foundation for resilience, confidence, and a healthy sense of self-worth.

 

Why Is Independence Important?

"Why can’t I just help them with everything?”

Of course, as parents, we want to help. But when we always step in, we risk sending the message that our child can’t manage things on their own. Over time, this can knock their confidence and create a cycle of over-dependence.

 

Encouraging independence helps children:

Build Confidence – They learn they’re capable and trusted.
Develop Problem-Solving Skills – They begin thinking critically and finding solutions.
Grow Resilience – When things go wrong, they learn to bounce back.
Foster Responsibility – They take ownership of their choices and actions.
Prepare for the Real World – Life doesn’t always come with a safety net.

And let’s be honest, it helps parents too. When children become more independent, life at home often becomes a little smoother, routines become easier, and everyone gains more breathing space.

 

How Superstars Camps Help Develop Independence

At Superstars, we’ve spent over 15 years working with children aged 5–14 across the North West. We’ve seen first-hand how holiday camps can play a huge role in helping children become more self-assured and independent.

 

Here’s how we build independence into our camps, without ever losing the fun:

1. Structured Freedom

We know that children thrive when they have boundaries and choices. At camp, they’re given structure, clear schedules, expectations, and support, but they also get to make their own decisions. For example, they might choose between a football session, a dance class, or a multi-sports game.

This freedom to choose encourages children to trust their instincts, try new things, and discover what they truly enjoy.

 

2. Encouraging Responsibility

Children are encouraged to look after their own belongings, manage their time between activities, and work as part of a team. It’s not about perfection, it’s about learning to take ownership in a safe, supportive setting.

Camp leaders also model independence by gently encouraging children to speak up, solve small disagreements, and take the lead when they’re ready.

 

3. Challenging Activities That Build Confidence

Whether it’s tackling our inflatable obstacle course, trying Laser Tag for the first time, or dancing in front of a crowd, we create moments that push children slightly out of their comfort zone in the best way possible.

Each challenge they conquer helps them realise, “I can do this,” and that self-belief stays with them long after camp ends.

 

4. Peer Learning and Social Growth

One of the best ways for children to become independent is to spend time around other children, away from home. At camp, they learn how to form friendships, communicate their needs, and navigate group dynamics without relying on their parents or caregivers.

That’s not just good for independence, it’s great for confidence and social skills too.

 

What Parents Can Do to Support Independence at Home

Encouraging independence doesn’t mean stepping away entirely. It means being a guide not a fixer. Here are a few gentle ways you can help at home:

 

Offer Choices
 

Let your child choose between two outfits or what to have for breakfast. It helps them feel in control and practise decision-making.

Allow (Safe) Mistakes
 

Forgotten water bottles or muddy school shoes are frustrating, but they’re also powerful learning opportunities. Let them experience consequences gently.

 

Praise Effort, Not Perfection
 

Instead of saying “You’re so clever,” try “You worked really hard on that.” This fosters a growth mindset and encourages them to persevere.

 

Encourage Problem Solving
 

When your child faces a challenge, resist the urge to jump in straight away. Instead, ask, “What do you think we should do?” or “Can you think of a way to fix this?”

 

Create Routines
 

Morning and evening routines give children structure and independence. Even little things like brushing teeth without reminders add up over time.

 

Real Parent Questions Answered

 

“My child is quite shy. Will they struggle at camp?”

Not at all. Our camps are welcoming, inclusive, and led by experienced staff who know how to build trust. Shy children often come out of their shells when they’re given space to be themselves, and many make lifelong friends.

 

“What if they don’t want to try something new?”

We never force participation. But our sessions are designed to be engaging, energetic, and fun, so even the most hesitant children usually end up giving it a go!

 

“Can my child really become more independent in just a few days?”

Absolutely. Sometimes, all it takes is one small win, like trying a new sport or speaking up in front of others, to spark a lasting change. And with consistent support at home, those changes grow over time.

 

In Summary

Independence isn’t something that appears overnight. It’s something children build one small step at a time with every choice they make, every challenge they tackle, and every success (or stumble) they learn from.

At Superstars Holiday Camps, we’re proud to help children take those steps in a fun, exciting, and safe environment. We believe every child has the potential to shine, and we’re here to support them on that journey.

 

Ready to see your child grow more confident and independent?

Book a place at your nearest Superstars Holiday Camp today.
 

We’re open every school holiday across the North West, offering Multisports, Football, Dance and plenty of opportunities to grow.

Call us on 01925 555859
Email info@littlesuperstars.co.uk
Visit our website

Stay connected with us on [Facebook] and [Instagram] to see what our Superstars are up to every week!