Summer Camp Is Good for Your Child’s Development
Grilled Za’atar Chicken With Garlic Yogurt and Cilantro
The Rinehardt kids started going to sleepover camp for three weeks of the summer when they were 8 years old. Hillary and John had great experiences as overnight campers as kids, and they wanted Aaron, Rachel, and Hannah to share that experience. Summer camp is more than just a fun getaway for kids —it’s a valuable opportunity for growth and development. From building social skills to fostering independence, the benefits of summer camp are extensive and impactful. Building Social Skills One of the most significant benefits of summer camp is the opportunity for children to develop social skills. In a camp setting, kids interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, learning to communicate, cooperate, and resolve conflicts. These interactions help children build friendships and develop essential social skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Fostering Independence Summer camp provides a safe environment for children to become more independent. Away from the familiar comforts of home, kids learn to take care of themselves, make decisions, and solve problems on their own. These experiences build self-reliance and confidence, essential traits for personal growth. Promoting Physical Activity In today’s digital age, it’s more important than ever for kids to engage in physical activity. Summer camp offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and swimming to team sports and adventure challenges. These activities promote physical fitness, healthy habits, and a love for the outdoors. Most camps require campers to leave their devices at the door. Enhancing Emotional Well-Being Summer camp also plays a vital role in enhancing children’s emotional well-being. The supportive camp environment allows kids to express themselves, try new things, and face challenges without fear of judgment. This freedom fosters resilience, self-esteem, and a positive outlook on life. The benefits of summer camp extend far beyond the fun and games. By building social skills, fostering independence, promoting physical activity, and enhancing emotional well-being, summer camp provides a holistic development experience for children. As parents and campers alike attest, the positive impact of camp can be life-changing, setting the foundation for a brighter, more confident future. As you plan for the summer, consider the invaluable experiences and growth opportunities that summer camp can offer your child. It’s an investment in their development that will reap benefits for years to come.
This is Hillary and John’s favorite recipe this summer. Marinate the meat overnight for best results, but a couple of hours will do. Be sure to make extra because the leftover chicken is great sliced on a salad for lunch the next day. You can broil the chicken instead of grilling, but if you do, line your sheet pan with aluminum foil for easier clean-up.
INGREDIENTS
•
6 garlic cloves, finely grated, pressed, or minced
• 1 1/2 lemons, zested • 1 cup plain whole-milk yogurt (we use Greek yogurt) • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil • 1 1/2 tbsp za’atar (you can find this in the spice section of the grocery store) • 1 tbsp oregano or marjoram • 1 3/4 tsp salt • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper • 2 1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
DIRECTIONS
1. In a large bowl or container, stir together 5 of the garlic cloves, half the lemon zest, 1/3 cup yogurt, the cilantro, oil, za’atar, oregano or marjoram, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. 2. When ready to cook, light the grill to medium or heat your broiler with the rack 3 inches from the heat source. Remove chicken from bowl, shaking off any excess marinade, and grill or broil on one side until charred in spots, 5–8 minutes. Flip the chicken and grill or broil for another 5–8 minutes, until just cooked through. 3. While the chicken is cooking, place remaining 2/3 cup yogurt in a small bowl. Stir in the reserve grated garlic clove and 1 tsp lemon zest, and season to taste with salt and pepper. 4. To serve, place chicken on a serving platter and drizzle with olive oil and a large squeeze of the zested lemon. Top with extra cilantro sprigs if desired and serve with yogurt sauce.
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