The latest Camp Akeela newsletter is here!
Fall 2025 Newsletter
In this addition, you’ll find:
- A note from Akeela’s directors, Debbie and Eric
- Two Spotify playlists: camper favorites from last summer and classic Akeela campfire songs
- An explanation of CampLauncher and the Akeela Launch-A-Thons
- Debbie’s review of Jonathan Haidt’s new book, The Amazing Generation (see below)
- A recipe for brookies … half brownie, half cookie, totally delicious!
- A hilarious camp-themed Mad Lib
Here is an excerpt of Debbie’s book review:
I’ve been a fan of Jonathan Haidt for a long time. The Coddling of the American Mind (co-authored with Greg Lukianoff) stuck with me in such a profound way. I talk about it all the time with our staff and with colleagues. Last year, I also read The Anxious Generation, Haidt’s much-discussed book about how the use of cell phones and social media have changed an entire generation.
Haidt has written a kids’ book called The Amazing Generation. It was actually co-authored by Catherine Price who wrote How to Break Up with Your Phone (which I loved and reviewed here). Their new book basically boils the Anxious Generation down into fun and easily digested information for kids. Its message is simple: life is way more interesting, creative, and joyful when you look up from a screen. Instead of saying “put the phone away” it invites kids to rediscover how amazing real life can be — friendships, adventures, nature, and all. I highly recommend that you think about ordering it for your younger camper as a holiday gift!
Of course, I particularly loved that Haidt lauds summer camps as examples of spaces where children get a break from screens and are able to experience more meaningful and personal connections! One of the young people highlighted in the text talks about how much she loved being phone-free at summer camp. Needless to say, we couldn’t agree more! As I think specifically about Akeela, I want to recognize that neurodivergent kids often thrive on structure, connection, and hands-on experiences; being without a phone for 3 weeks helps us achieve those goals.
Why unplugging matters:
- It celebrates real connection. The book shows how face-to-face time beats screen time for feeling truly seen and supported.
- It builds confidence. Just like camp, it encourages safe adventures and trying new things.
- It normalizes screen breaks. Instead of feeling like punishment, unplugging becomes an opportunity.
- It supports self-advocacy. The book helps kids understand the “why” behind limits — so they feel empowered, not restricted.
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