Outdoor music invites campers to practice teamwork, empathy, and self-expression in real time.

Creating Supportive Spaces for Growth at Camp

Camps play a unique role in helping young people develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Many camps are weaving character development and social‑emotional learning into everyday experiences, making growth a natural part of camp life. Outdoor musical play supports this mission by giving campers ways to explore creativity, collaborate with others, and engage meaningfully with their environment.

According to the American Camp Association (ACA), character-based programming is most effective when positive values are modeled and authentically embedded into daily interactions. Outdoor musical experiences encourage exactly that — playful moments that spark growth without feeling structured or instructional.

Fostering Character Through Playful Experiences

Music-making creates organic opportunities for character development. When campers experiment with rhythm and sound, they encounter challenges that promote resilience and perseverance. A group trying to find a shared beat practices patience and cooperation. Moments like these reinforce key values such as respect, responsibility, and teamwork.

These experiences also strengthen relationships. When staff participate alongside campers, they model empathy, curiosity, and encouragement. Shared musical exploration often leads to conversations and connections that support a positive camp culture.

Supporting Inclusion for Campers of All Abilities

Inclusive programming remains central to ACA’s mission of providing safe, supportive environments for every child. Outdoor musical play can be especially meaningful for campers with disabilities because it offers multiple ways to participate and succeed. Music allows engagement without pressure, enabling campers with diverse physical, sensory, or cognitive needs to join in comfortably and confidently.

Simple actions — tapping a rhythm, contributing a single tone, or exploring sound at one’s own pace — allow every camper to express themselves and feel part of the group. These shared experiences help cultivate empathy among peers and reinforce a sense of belonging.

Many camps have seen the impact firsthand. At Camp ASCCA, staff use outdoor music-making to support emotional development, fine motor skills, and social interaction among campers. “It’s incredible to watch our campers walk up to the instruments and begin to play,” says Program Director Amber Cotney. “Even those who are nonverbal or hesitant to join group activities feel comfortable participating through music.”

Designing Accessible Spaces That Encourage Participation

Thoughtful design can make outdoor music areas accessible to all campers. Considerations may include wide pathways, smooth surfaces, wheelchair-friendly approaches, and activities placed at varied heights. Accessible spaces promote independence and allow campers to participate alongside peers, strengthening community and inclusion.

These areas often become gathering places where campers connect, unwind, and collaborate — reinforcing the camp’s commitment to creating environments where every child can thrive.

Building Community Through Shared Musical Moments

Outdoor music supports reflection, emotional regulation, and meaningful interaction. Whether during free play, small-group activities, or quieter moments between transitions, music helps campers express feelings, work together, and practice kindness. These moments contribute to a supportive camp environment rooted in character, connection, and shared experience.

As camps continue exploring strategies that nurture both personal growth and inclusive community, outdoor musical play remains a simple, joyful approach that welcomes every camper and encourages values that last long after camp is over.

This blog is sponsored by Percussion Play.

Alex Cook is the camps sector specialist at Percussion Play. She focuses on helping camps create outdoor experiences that support creativity, inclusion, and meaningful connections among campers.

Periodically, the American Camp Association (ACA) makes timely and relevant information about products and services available to its members so they can make informed decisions for their camps. However, the ACA does not endorse products, services, or companies.