Srinagar, April 8, 2026: The National Child Development Council (NCDC) held its Core Committee meeting on Monday to discuss and approve a key resolution on the goals and structure of summer camps across the country. The meeting aimed to move beyond the traditional academic approach and promote holistic development among children.
Sheeba PK, who presented the resolution, noted that summer camps are becoming more common, run by both schools and private organizations. She pointed out that many of these camps focus on business goals, emphasizing academic improvement rather than overall growth. The resolution encourages summer camps to help children develop empathy, friendship, and both inter- and intrapersonal skills through activity-based learning. It also stresses the importance of connecting children with nature and engaging them in creative, values-centered activities.
Mohammad Rizwan mentioned that summer camps may include some academic elements, but the council recommends shifting the focus to activities that build confidence, teamwork, and life skills. This approach gives children the chance to explore beyond the classroom. He emphasized that these activities should complement academic learning, allowing children to use their vacation time productively.
Bindu Saraswathibhai highlighted that summer camps offer a safe and engaging space, especially for working parents. She encouraged camps to avoid traditional academic teaching during this time, favoring activities that teach empathy, sharing, self-care, and environmental responsibility. She also suggested that parents could participate occasionally to observe and reinforce these values at home.
Radha Sajeev pointed out that extracurricular activities like arts, crafts, gardening, and other creative workshops should be central to summer camp programs. These activities support children’s mental and physical well-being while promoting social skills, cooperation, and community awareness.
Anandhi noted that parents are increasingly interested in enrolling their children in summer camps to use vacation time effectively, limit screen time, and engage kids in meaningful learning. Innovative programs, such as sex education awareness sessions led by psychologists, baking workshops, and publishing children’s creative work, were suggested to enhance summer camp offerings.
NCDC’s Sana concluded that summer camps should focus on developing interpersonal skills, empathy and confidence instead of concentrating on traditional academics.
