In the U.S. alone, 1 in 5 children live with special healthcare needs. For these kids, childhood often includes hospital rooms, treatment schedules, and long stretches of isolation. They face nearly double the risk of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) compared to their peers, leading to poorer physical health, mental health challenges, and reduced well-being later in life.
This is why positive childhood experiences (PCEs) matter even more for kids facing illness. These positive experiences act as a protective antidote to traumatic childhood events—promoting lifelong health, resilience, and well-being.
A groundbreaking review published in the academic journal Behavior Sciences looks at how medical specialty camps, like SeriousFun camps, create these PCEs. The findings validate what we’ve witnessed for years: camp provides nurturing relationships, safe and equitable environments, opportunities for social connection, and pathways to develop emotional skills.
In addition, the research identified four qualities that explain why medical camp settings are especially effective at providing PCEs:
- Being outdoors
Natural environments reduce stress, support emotional safety, and encourage connection with others. For children who spend much of their time in clinical or indoor settings, access to nature plays a meaningful role in well-being.
- Engagement in meaningful activities
From adaptive archery to stage night, camp activities are intentionally designed to build skills, independence, and confidence. From daily routines to creative and recreational pursuits, these experiences help children develop competence and a sense of belonging.
- Finding meaning and identity
Camp offers space for children to see themselves beyond their diagnosis. Through shared experiences, recognition, and leadership opportunities, children build confidence and a stronger sense of self.
- The restorative experience of “being away”
Time away from hospitals, treatments, and daily stressors provides both physical and mental relief. This distance allows children to reset, explore, and reconnect with joy.
For our campers, SeriousFun programs live up to their name: seriously fun with seriously big impact—helping kids build resilience for life.