Unplug to Connect: Screen Free Policy

This summer, Forward Bible Camp is “unplugging” to make camp a screen-free environment for our campers and cabin leaders.

 

Why are we doing this?

• To promote healthy socialization amongst campers

• To help teach and enhance communication skills

• To enable children to make meaningful bonds with people face to face

• To enable staff to build a better cabin and community

 

We believe that unplugging during camp enhances our connections: to each other and to our surroundings.

 

What is the Policy for campers?

Campers are not permitted to bring any devices to camp that are capable of playing games, watching movies, downloading data or being used as a telephone. This includes:  Cell/Smart phones, iPods, iPads, laptops, any gaming device, E-books of any kind. If these devices are found in camp, they will be confiscated. Campers who require a phone for travel to and from camp will be required to turn in their phone before entering camp – the phone will be returned at the end of the session. 

 

Digital Cameras are permitted.

 

For camps, technology is a quandary.  It is an integral part of our lives, yet it can also be pervasive and all-consuming.  At camp, where we aim to strengthen interpersonal connection, growth, and independence; technology simply gets in the way. During camp, we want to protect our campers’ ability to play and engage unencumbered by a device.  Thank you in advance for your help in supporting and implementing this policy.