02130nas a2200181 4500000000100000008004100001100002400042700001800066700001400084700001400098700001400112700001400126700001100140245008000151250001500231520165100246020005101897 2013 d1 aMartiniuk Alexandra1 aShea-Perry M.1 aAmylon M.1 aBriery B.1 aKelsey K.1 aKorver S.1 aLam G.00aCamper learning and friendship at pediatric oncology camps in North America a2013/12/253 a

Objective: Children with cancer and their families often attend specialized camps (therapeutic recreation) through their cancer treatment journey yet little is known about the effects of these camps. Methods: A qualitative cohort study was used to assess learning and friendship development by campers attending one of four pediatric oncology summer camps during 2010 in North America. Standardized perceived change questionnaires developed by the American Camp Association were administered following camp attendance. Results: 518 campers were enrolled; 120 (6 to 9 years) and 398 (10 years and older). The largest positive response from the younger campers was observed for the question: "At camp did you learn to look forward to trying new activities?" For the older campers' survey, the items: "becoming better at enjoying being with my friends", "becoming better at helping my friends have a good time when they are with me" and "becoming better at getting to know more things about my friends" were perceived to increase the most for the majority of campers compared to other questions. Items for which older campers most often perceived little change were: "becoming better at choosing people who would be good friends to be with", and "becoming better at understanding friends' emotions". Conclusions: Camp helps children learn new activities as well as enjoy good times with friends. Dealing with one's own mistakes and understanding others' emotions are areas for improvement. Ultimately it is hoped that these skills gained at camp will help build coping and resiliency for children/siblings affected by pediatric cancers.

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