02/07/2025
How Barracudas Summer Camps Support Children's Mental and Physical Health
Supporting children's mental and physical health is more important than ever—especially during the long school holidays, when routines are disrupted, screen time increases, and social connections can weaken. At Barracudas, we understand how vital it is to offer children a safe, active, and nurturing environment where they can thrive.
Our multi-activity holiday camps provide the perfect setting to support children's well-being through engaging, screen-free fun, physical exercise, creative exploration, and meaningful social interaction. Here's how our summer camps help children feel happier, healthier, and more confident—inside and out.
The mental health Benefits of Physical Activity
One of the most effective ways to boost children's mental health is through regular physical activity. At Barracudas, kids take part in a wide range of sports, games, and energetic activities that get their bodies moving and minds engaged. From team games to dance, swimming, obstacle courses and more, every day at camp is filled with movement and motivation.
Physical activity doesn’t just build strength and coordination—it reduces stress, boosts mood, and improves self-esteem. Active kids are happier, more focused, and better equipped to manage their emotions. Our dynamic camp environment promotes these benefits every day, supporting positive mental well-being in a natural and enjoyable way.
A Variety of Activities to Suit Every Child
Every child is unique, which is why our timetable is built around our ACTIVE motto—delivering fun, variety, and choice. With 6 exciting sessions each day, children can choose from sports, arts and crafts, team challenges, science experiments, performance activities and more.
Our choice-based model (we're the only camp offering a choice of activity for every session) empowers children to shape their own day. It gives them a sense of control and builds confidence—both of which are crucial for supporting mental resilience and self-worth. Whether your child loves being creative, getting active, or trying something new, they’ll find something they love at Barracudas.
A Safe and Supportive Camp Community
Children thrive in environments where they feel heard, valued, and safe. At Barracudas, our experienced and caring staff create a warm and inclusive atmosphere where kids can truly be themselves. Our team is trained to support children’s emotional needs, and we build strong, trusting relationships every season.
We actively encourage children to express their feelings, build self-awareness, and solve problems in healthy ways. It’s this supportive approach that makes Barracudas not just a fun place to be—but a place where real emotional growth happens.
Building Friendships and Social Confidence
The long school holidays can be socially isolating for some children. That’s why our camps focus on helping children make new friends and build strong social skills in a relaxed, non-judgemental setting. Children mix with their peers from different schools and backgrounds, widening their social circle and boosting their confidence.
Friendships made at Barracudas are often long-lasting—and it’s amazing to see children return to camp each year excited to reconnect. These social bonds are not only fun—they’re also a powerful protective factor for children's mental health.
Teaching Healthy Coping Skills
Learning to manage stress and anxiety is a vital life skill—and something we help children develop at Barracudas. Children learn through play how to stay calm, work through challenges, and try again when things don’t go to plan.
Simple techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness moments, and collaborative games help reinforce healthy emotional habits. At Barracudas, we believe that mental health education starts with creating positive experiences where children feel safe, supported, and empowered.
A Creative and Balanced Approach to Wellbeing
In addition to being active, children at Barracudas also get plenty of opportunities to explore their creativity, try new things, and take time to unwind. Whether it’s crafting, painting, drama or yoga, creative expression is another key pillar of emotional health.
A typical day at camp is balanced with physical activity, social time, quiet play, and imaginative exploration—giving children a well-rounded experience that nurtures both mind and body.
Our Ongoing Commitment to Children's Well-being
At Barracudas, we’re more than just a holiday club. We’re committed to promoting children’s mental and physical wellbeing all year round—especially during the long summer holidays when structure and connection can be lost. We understand the risks of excessive screen time, boredom, and lack of activity, and we work hard to provide a positive, purposeful alternative.
We regularly review and improve our programmes to meet the evolving needs of today’s children. Our focus is always on helping kids feel healthy, connected, confident, and capable—so they return to school after the holidays not just refreshed, but stronger and more resilient.
Top Tips to Support Children’s Mental Health at Home
Here are some expert tips—many of which are reflected in the Barracudas camp experience—to support your child’s mental wellbeing all year round:
- Encourage daily physical activity
- Teach mindfulness and calming techniques
- Promote healthy sleep and eating habits
- Foster open conversations about emotions
- Support creativity through art, music, and play
- Encourage positive self-talk and goal setting
- Help build friendships and emotional intelligence
- Create screen-free zones or times
- Model resilience and problem-solving
- Normalise mental health discussions and seeking help
Ready for a Healthier, Happier Summer?
Barracudas is the perfect place for your child to enjoy a healthy, active, and confidence-boosting summer. With over 40 locations, expertly trained staff, and a huge range of activities to choose from, we’re proud to help children build lasting memories—and essential life skills—during the school holidays.
Let’s make this summer one to remember—for all the right reasons.
Book your place today and give your child the gift of fun, friendship, and wellbeing.