Unplugged: How Schools Are Catching Up to What Camp Does Best

This fall, New York and many other states made a big move: they passed new laws that says students won’t be able to use their phones or smartwatches during the school day. That means no scrolling between classes, at lunch, or even during study hall. The idea is simple—kids can focus better, connect more with each other, and get the most out of their school time when their phones and other devices are put away.

At Wicosuta, this idea feels very familiar! For 3.5 weeks each summer, our campers live completely screen-free. No phones, no TikTok, no constant notifications—just time to really be present with friends, try new things, and enjoy every moment. While schools are just starting to put rules like this in place, Wico girls already know how freeing it feels to unplug and connect face-to-face.

Why Being Screen-Free Works at Wico

Life without screens may feel impossible at home—but at camp, it’s natural. Campers spend their days making bracelets, learning a new skill at the pool or on the fields, singing in the Dining Hall, or just hanging out with friends. Because no one has a phone, the pressure to “perform” disappears. Instead, our campers focus on the friendships right in front of them and the experiences that make each day exciting.

The Worth of Camp

The new school law aims to help kids find more balance, at Wico, we see the true value of unplugging every single summer.

• Confidence – Without the comparison and pressure of social media, girls feel safe trying new things and celebrating their growth.
• Competence – Campers gain real skills, whether it’s swimming, climbing, arts & crafts, or team challenges, building the knowledge and abilities they can be proud of.
• Community – Campers feel part of a cabin family and larger camp community where friendships are built face-to-face, not through a screen.
• Presence & Connection – Whether it’s wearing a silly hat to dinner, playing soccer, or participating in Color War and Big/Little Sister activities, campers practice being fully present, supporting each other, and working together.

Now that schools are moving toward screen-free days, it’s a great chance for families to bring a little bit of camp spirit into daily life. Some simple ideas:

• Have screen-free family dinners where everyone puts devices away.
• Plan a camp-style activity—like baking, crafting, or a backyard game—with no phones in sight.
• Go for a walk outside together and use it as a time to talk, just like campers do on the way to activities and meals.
• Start a daily “Happies” check-in at bedtime: What was your favorite part of today? What’s something you learned?

New York’s new phone law is a reminder of something we already know: kids thrive when they get the chance to disconnect. At Camp Wicosuta, we see it every summer. In just 3.5 weeks, girls gain confidence, competence and build lifelong friendships –  discovering the joy of being fully present. That’s the true worth of camp—and it’s a gift our campers carry with them long after summer ends.