Mom Creates ‘How to Be a Person’ Summer Camp for Her Kids & It’s Brilliant

This mom created her own “summer camp” for her kids to teach them essential life skills, and it’s an absolutely brilliant idea

When most kids go to summer camp, they expect to spend their time swimming, camping out, having bonfires, playing sports and games, and, most importantly, having a ton of fun. And while there’s plenty of value in that kind of camp, one mom came up with something that might be even better.

Kaitlyn Rowe, a mom of four who lives in Utah, created her own summer camp for her kids that she calls “How To Be A Person” camp. In a viral Instagram post, she shared each kid’s list of camp activities, and it’s all kinds of things that kids need to know in order to survive (and thrive) as humans in the world.

The lists are customized for each kid’s age. For example, the 6-year-old will be learning things like how to scramble an egg, how to trim her nails, how to style her hair in a ponytail or a braid, how to pack an overnight bag, and how to separate trash from recyclables.

Rowe’s 3-year-old has a simpler list, but the skills on it are just as important—things like how to make your bed, how to choose an outfit, how to clean up spills and crumbs, how to safely use scissors and glue, and how to ask an adult for help with something.

Finally, there’s a third list with tasks that kids of both ages can learn: how to brush and floss their teeth, how to wipe down counters, how to talk on the phone, and how to make a peanut butter sandwich. And this one, which we love (and that many adults could use some practice in): how to identify big feelings and what to do about them.

Obviously, this summer camp is brilliant, and people in the comments agree.

“Love this! Thank you for sharing! So many people forget that we need to spend TIME with our children and teach them these important skills and lessons. I’m going to make similar charts for my 9, 7, and 5-year-olds. Thank you for the inspiration!” one commenter wrote.

So if you’re still looking for ways to occupy your kids this summer, look no further. Summer camp is in session—and if you need ideas for your kids’ summer camp lists, check out All the Chores Kids Should Be Doing, Based on Their Age and What Kids Should Be Able to Do Themselves at Every Age.