Addressing Screen Addiction: The Immense Value of Unplugging at Summer Camp

December 1, 2024

Children spend more time on screens than ever before. Tablets, smartphones, and computers are part of their everyday lives, making it hard to avoid screen addiction. This excessive screen time can impact their physical health, social skills, and emotional well-being. The constant exposure to screens reduces their time for physical activities and face-to-face interactions.

Summer camps offer a great way to break this cycle by encouraging children to unplug and enjoy outdoor activities. At Marlboro Montessori Camp in Hazlet, NJ, we focus on providing experiences that foster learning and growth without relying on screens. Our camp is set in a serene country environment where children can play, explore, and connect with nature.

Unplugging from screens allows children to experience the world in a more hands-on and interactive way. They can engage in physical exercise, build social connections, and develop new skills. These outdoor activities are beneficial for their overall health and happiness. Marlboro Montessori Camp emphasizes the importance of balancing screen time with real-world experiences, setting the stage for lifelong healthy habits.

Understanding the Impact of Screen Addiction on Children

Screen addiction can severely affect children's development in various ways. Spending too much time on screens can lead to several negative outcomes, both physically and mentally.

Physical Health Issues: Children who spend excessive time on screens often lead sedentary lifestyles. This lack of physical activity can result in obesity, weakened muscles, and poor posture. The blue light emitted from screens can also disrupt their sleep patterns, leading to sleep deprivation and its associated problems.
Social Skills Deterioration: When children are glued to screens, they miss out on face-to-face interactions. This affects their ability to develop social skills. They might find it difficult to communicate, share, and build relationships with their peers.
Emotional and Mental Health: Constant screen time is linked to increased levels of anxiety and depression in children. They may rely on screens for entertainment and comfort, which can lead to lower self-esteem and less resilience. The instant gratification provided by screens can also diminish their attention spans and patience.

Understanding these impacts is crucial for addressing screen addiction and promoting healthier habits among children.

Benefits of Unplugging and Engaging in Outdoor Activities

Unplugging from screens and engaging in outdoor activities offer numerous benefits for children. These activities promote overall well-being and help in counteracting the negative effects of screen addiction.

Improved Physical Health: Outdoor play encourages children to move around and stay active. Activities like running, jumping, and climbing boost their physical fitness. Exposure to sunlight helps their bodies produce vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones and immune function.
Enhanced Cognitive Skills: Nature-based activities stimulate children's curiosity and problem-solving skills. Exploring, observing, and interacting with the natural world around them enhances their cognitive development. These activities help build attention, creativity, and understanding of their environment.
Better Emotional Well-being: Spending time outdoors has a calming effect on children. It reduces stress and anxiety, making them feel happier and more relaxed. Engaging in outdoor activities allows them to experience joy and freedom, boosting their overall mood.
Stronger Social Connections: Playing outside gives children the opportunity to interact with their peers. They learn to cooperate, share, and communicate effectively. These social interactions help them build friendships and develop their social skills.

Encouraging children to unplug and connect with nature helps them grow healthier, happier, and more well-rounded.

Activities at Marlboro Montessori Camp That Promote Screen-Free Fun

Marlboro Montessori Camp offers a range of activities that encourage children to unplug and enjoy the natural world. These activities are designed to foster creativity, physical fitness, and social skills.

Nature Walks and Exploration: Daily nature walks allow children to explore the camp's beautiful surroundings. They can identify plants, observe animals, and learn about ecosystems. This hands-on learning experience fosters a deeper connection to the environment.
Creative Arts and Crafts: Our camp provides ample opportunities for creative expression. Children engage in arts and crafts using natural materials like leaves, twigs, and stones. Projects such as painting, sculpting, and assembling nature collages enhance their artistic skills and spark their imagination.
Sports and Outdoor Games: Physical activities are a big part of our camp. Children enjoy playing soccer, relay races, and other team sports. These games improve physical health while promoting teamwork and social interaction.
Splash Park and Swimming: Our camp features a splash park and swimming areas where children can cool off and have fun in the water. These activities are both enjoyable and excellent for physical fitness.

These screen-free activities at Marlboro Montessori Camp ensure that children have a fulfilling and enriching experience during their summer break.

How Parents Can Encourage a Healthy Balance Between Screen Time and Outdoor Play

Parents play a crucial role in helping children balance screen time with outdoor play. Here are several strategies to achieve this balance:

Set Clear Limits: Establishing rules for screen time is essential. Set specific times for using devices and ensure these rules are followed consistently. Designate screen-free zones such as the dining table and bedrooms.
Plan Outdoor Activities: Encourage your child to spend more time outdoors by planning fun activities. Schedule regular family walks, bike rides, or visits to the park. These activities not only promote physical health but also provide quality family time.
Create a Screen-Free Routine: Incorporate screen-free routines into your child’s daily schedule. Reserve certain hours for reading, playing outside, or engaging in hobbies that do not involve screens. Consistency in these routines helps build healthy habits.
Be a Role Model: Children often mimic adult behavior. Show your child that you value outdoor activities by reducing your own screen time and participating in outdoor fun. This sets a positive example for them to follow.

By implementing these strategies, parents can help their children develop a healthy relationship with screens and the outside world.

Conclusion

Addressing screen addiction in children is essential for their overall development and well-being. Encouraging them to unplug and engage in outdoor activities helps mitigate the negative impacts of excessive screen time. At Marlboro Montessori Camp, we provide a nurturing environment where children can explore, learn, and play without the distractions of screens. Our diverse activities promote physical fitness, creativity, and social skills, offering a well-rounded experience.

Parents play a vital role in helping children find a balance between screen time and outdoor play. Setting limits, planning activities, and being a positive role model can make a significant difference. Ensuring children have opportunities to connect with nature leads to healthier, happier, and more balanced lives.

Give your child the chance to experience the joy of a screen-free summer. Enroll them in Marlboro Montessori Camp's Summer Swim Camp 2024 for a fun-filled, enriching experience in Hazlet, NJ. Reach out to our elementary Montessori today to sign up. Secure a spot for your child and help them enjoy the beauty of nature.

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How Marlboro Montessori Prepares Children for Kindergarten and Beyond

By Marlboro Montessori Academy • October 15, 2025

At Marlboro Montessori Academy, we understand that a child’s early years are crucial for setting the foundation for lifelong learning. That’s why we’ve spent over four decades crafting a nurturing, engaging, and academically rich environment for children from 18 months through 12 years old. From our Montessori toddler program to our private kindergarten, we prepare children not just for the next grade level—but for a lifetime of curiosity, independence, and success. A Solid Foundation Begins in the Toddler Years Kindergarten readiness doesn’t start at age five—it begins long before that. Our Montessori toddler program welcomes children as young as 18 months into a learning environment designed just for them. Through hands-on activities, sensory exploration, and guided independence, our toddlers develop crucial skills like concentration, coordination, and confidence. We know that early childhood education is more than just letters and numbers. At this developmental stage, children are forming their attitudes toward learning. That’s why our toddler learning center emphasizes positive reinforcement, nurturing routines, and plenty of opportunities for movement and choice. Our full-day toddler care program provides a stable, consistent environment for working families while giving children the time they need to explore, play, and grow at their own pace. The Montessori approach ensures that even our youngest learners are gently guided to develop their natural abilities and express themselves in meaningful ways. The Bridge to Kindergarten Through Montessori Preschool For children ages 3 to 4, our Montessori preschool serves as a bridge between toddlerhood and kindergarten. Here, children are immersed in a classroom filled with hands-on materials and structured freedom. This unique setup encourages children to choose their activities based on their interests while also developing essential academic and social skills. Our preschoolers engage in Montessori Math, Language Arts, Practical Life, and Cultural Studies, gaining an early understanding of core subjects in a natural, engaging way. These experiences are vital in building a strong foundation for our kindergarten readiness program, where we continue to refine their skills in reading, writing, math, and more. Because our classrooms are multi-age, younger children look up to older peers, while older students develop leadership and empathy. This mixed-age structure promotes collaborative learning, a key element that helps children transition confidently into kindergarten and beyond. Preparing for Academic Success in Kindergarten Our private kindergarten is designed to go beyond traditional academic goals. We aim to nurture the whole child—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically. Children benefit from individualized attention, advanced Montessori materials, and a curriculum that integrates science, geography, grammar, and even environmental education through our Green Hour program at the on-site Montessori Nature Center. Unlike a conventional classroom, our full-day kindergarten offers an immersive experience where children can dive deeply into their interests, move freely within the environment, and build both academic and life skills. Every element of our program supports the development of critical thinking, independence, and resilience—skills that will carry them well beyond the kindergarten years. Learning Beyond the Classroom Our commitment to education doesn’t end with the school day. For families in need of flexible scheduling, we offer extended day care and before and after school care. These programs are thoughtfully designed to continue the Montessori philosophy, providing consistency and enrichment while supporting busy parents. We also offer seasonal enrichment programs for kids, including an educational summer camp that blends learning with outdoor fun. Our summer camp for toddlers and preschoolers maintains the same Montessori values, offering engaging activities, nature exploration, splash park fun, and social development in a relaxed, joyful setting. For elementary-aged children, our summer camp for kids includes age-appropriate academic refreshers, science experiments, arts and crafts, and plenty of time outdoors on our four-acre campus that includes a 60-foot sandbox, amphitheater, and access to nature trails. A Community Rooted in Growth and Exploration Located on four scenic acres in Morganville, our school is more than a place to learn—it’s a place to belong. The Montessori philosophy thrives in our prepared environments, where every child is known, respected, and supported in their individual journey. Whether a child is just beginning in toddler daycare or preparing to graduate from elementary school, we provide a strong foundation for future academic and personal success. We are proud to serve families throughout the surrounding communities with rolling admissions and a flexible range of schedule options, including half-day and full-day programs to accommodate each family’s needs. If you're looking for a Montessori school that prioritizes holistic growth and academic readiness, we invite you to explore all that Marlboro Montessori Academy has to offer. From toddlerhood to the elementary years, we help children thrive through every developmental milestone—and prepare them for kindergarten and beyond. To learn more or to schedule a visit, contact us today. We’d love to meet your family and help your child begin their journey of lifelong learning.

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What Makes Montessori Education Unique for Early Childhood Development

By Marlboro Montessori Academy • October 1, 2025

When it comes to setting a strong foundation for a child’s future, few approaches to learning compare to the Montessori method. At Marlboro Montessori Academy, we’ve seen firsthand how our thoughtfully crafted environment, experienced educators, and child-centered approach can transform early childhood education. For over 47 years, we’ve provided children with the opportunity to grow into confident, curious learners who are well-prepared for academic and social success. Rooted in the philosophy of Dr. Maria Montessori, our programs encourage independence, respect for others, and hands-on learning. Whether your child is just starting out in our Montessori toddler program or getting ready for elementary school, our goal remains the same: to nurture the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. A Personalized Path in Early Childhood Education Unlike traditional classrooms, a Montessori school fosters an environment where each child can progress at their own pace. We believe that education is not one-size-fits-all, which is why our curriculum is built around self-directed learning, tailored guidance, and freedom within limits. Our early childhood education programs begin as early as 18 months with our toddler daycare and Montessori toddler program. At this stage, young children are naturally curious and eager to explore their surroundings. Through age-appropriate materials and activities, toddlers learn basic life skills, coordination, and social interaction in a nurturing setting. By the time children transition into our Montessori preschool, they are already developing a love for learning. Multi-sensorial experiences and hands-on lessons help them grasp abstract concepts in subjects like math, reading, science, and geography. More importantly, children develop intrinsic motivation—a lifelong skill that empowers them to seek knowledge independently. Encouraging Kindergarten Readiness Through a Montessori Lens Kindergarten is a significant milestone in any child’s academic journey. Our private kindergarten and kindergarten readiness program are designed to ensure that children are not only academically prepared but also socially and emotionally equipped for the challenges ahead. We offer a full-day kindergarten schedule, allowing children the time and space to engage deeply with lessons and projects. With small class sizes and individualized attention, each child receives a well-rounded education that promotes critical thinking, collaboration, and responsibility. Our classrooms are filled with Montessori materials specifically designed to enhance focus, fine motor development, and logical reasoning. Children don’t just memorize—they understand. And because we integrate real-life tasks and practical life activities into the curriculum, students leave our kindergarten with skills they can use every day. Extending the Learning Beyond the Classroom We understand that learning doesn’t stop when the school day ends. That’s why we offer a robust extended day care program, including both before and after school care. These programs provide a structured yet relaxed environment where children can engage in creative activities, complete homework, or simply unwind. Our enrichment programs for kids further support intellectual and emotional development. Whether it’s art, music, or outdoor exploration in our Montessori Nature Center, we give children diverse opportunities to discover new interests and talents. During the summer months, learning continues through our educational summer camp. Designed for children 18 months to 10 years old, our summer camp for toddlers and older children includes both full and mini camp days. With access to a splash park, sandbox, in-ground training pool, and sprawling outdoor spaces, kids enjoy the perfect balance of fun and discovery. A Community Where Every Child Thrives Located in Morganville, New Jersey, Marlboro Montessori Academy is more than a school—it’s a community. Our campus spans four beautiful acres adjacent to a family farm and the Henry Hudson Trail, offering an enriching outdoor experience that complements our indoor classrooms. Our staff is deeply committed to the Montessori philosophy and trained to observe each child’s unique needs and interests. We believe in creating a warm, inclusive environment where children feel safe, respected, and empowered to grow. We are proud to offer rolling admissions, flexible schedules, and a comprehensive curriculum that meets families where they are. Whether you’re looking for full-day toddler care, a nurturing private kindergarten, or a preschool summer camp that keeps your child engaged year-round, we invite you to discover what makes our programs so special. If you're ready to give your child the lifelong benefits of a Montessori education, we encourage you to contact us today. Schedule a tour, ask questions, or learn more about our programs by visiting our Contact Us page. We look forward to welcoming your family into our learning community.