Op-Ed: The Power of a Smartphone-Free Camp Experience

As a Bochur learning in 770, there’s an issue that has always bothered me, and I was recently reminded of it. A fellow Bochur mentioned to his friend that it was time for him to get a smartphone with WhatsApp to prepare for camp. This struck a nerve because it highlights a larger problem: the assumption that having a smartphone is a necessity for Madrichim.

The Summer Challenge: Growth or Downfall?

In Yeshivos, before the summer, Mashpi’im are concerned about and warn us that it is a powerful yet risky time. It can be a time of tremendous growth, but also a time of spiritual decline. Many Bochurim who have been strong throughout the year begin to slip—often due to getting a phone or becoming more lenient with their existing one.

This issue doesn’t just affect the Madrichim; it impacts the campers as well. Imagine the profound and lasting influence of a counselor who is fun, exciting, and inspiring—but doesn’t have a smartphone. This counselor sends a strong message to the campers: “You don’t need a phone to be cool.” If all the role models in their lives have smartphones, then the message campers receive is that being “cool” means having a phone.

The Impact of Being Present

Beyond being an example for the campers, having smartphone-free Bochurim means they are truly present. A Madrich without distractions can fully focus on the campers—their needs, their well-being, and their growth. But it’s not just about presence and headspace—it’s about time. Every moment spent checking a phone is a moment taken away from the campers. Without smartphones, Madrichim naturally have more time to engage with the campers, to connect, to notice when someone needs encouragement, and to be fully involved in the camp experience. If we care about the quality of our camp experience, then we must care about the presence, time, and involvement of our Bochurim and Madrichim.

Addressing the Argument: “Camp Runs on WhatsApp”

One common argument is that camp logistics require WhatsApp. However, we must acknowledge that having Bochurim on their smartphones is a bad example for the campers. There are solutions:

1. Camps should implement policies to minimize smartphone use among Madrichim. At the very least, ensure that smartphones should be restricted and filtered properly, and used for camp-related communication only.

2. Camps should ensure that those who choose not to have a smartphone still have a way to stay in the loop, so they don’t feel left out.

3. Camps should actively promote and encourage Bochurim to avoid getting smartphones in the first place.

A Unique Opportunity for Growth

In general, a popular time for Bochurim to get smartphones is before the summer. Many begin feeling the need for a phone as camp approaches, and once they have it, they often continue using it throughout the year. If we are concerned about how Bochurim handle smartphones, then we must address this time period proactively. By creating an environment that minimizes and prevents Bochurim from feeling pressured to get a phone before summer, we can help push off—or even prevent—many Bochurim from getting smartphones altogether. A well-run, distraction-free camp experience can reinforce this and have a lasting impact—not only for the campers but for the Madrichim as well.

A Call to Action

We invest so much in the camp experience for our campers. Let’s ensure that this investment truly pays off by making camp an environment of presence, inspiration, and meaningful Hashpaa. By taking action, we can make a real difference in the Chinuch and spiritual growth of our youth, and give the Rebbe much Nachas.

Please feel free to submit any feedback at: chaimW770@gmail.com