Virtually all children are born with an innate creative bent; from the time little artists learn to color inside the lines and tiny ballerinas choose the music to accompany their first dance steps, they all want to do something to express themselves. Those who are encouraged will often go on to develop real talents in those pursuits. It is not unusual for little girls to dream of fame and fortune as artistes much like those idols they are emulating. Parents can help these girls really hone their talents, and take a peek into the real world at the same time, by sending them to an art camp or summer music camp.

While fine arts camps have been around for years, there is a more recent trend to incorporate both individual and team sports into the regularly scheduled activities. The fact is, whether the camper is only 8 years old or 18, it's very important to remain physically active. This is especially true for those in the more sedentary groups, such as painting, acting, jewelry making and other programs that require little movement. Those whose interest lies in dance also need sports to round out their lives, for several reasons.

First of all, most individual activities such as archery, canoeing, swimming, tennis and riding use different muscles, or use them differently, than those used in dance. Participating in other physical activities can help these youngsters improve balance, coordination and breath control. More importantly, however, outdoor sporting activities get the girls out into the fresh air, and provide both fun and opportunities for interacting with others outside their particular focus group who they might not otherwise befriend.

Aside from expanding their areas of expertise in their chosen field, girls are encouraged to join teams of competitive sports such as volleyball, basketball, softball and soccer. Team sports not only encourage a sense of camaraderie, but give girls a taste of competition. Learning to both win and lose with grace is a skill that carries over into many life situations, and can be particularly helpful when seeking work in their chosen professions. Actors, dancers, musicians and other artists are constantly exposed to rejection, so understanding and accepting the competitive nature of these occupations, and life in general is an important life lesson, and part of the maturing process. Dealing with the competition while playing a team sport teaches invaluable life lessons that will stand youngsters in good stead throughout their lives.

After spending the summer at an art camp or summer music camp that includes sports and athletics, the return to the school year often becomes more rewarding. Exposure to team games and individual sports during the summer often helps these girls gain a new level of self confidence which can expand horizons and open doors to scores of new friends and activities during the school year.

An interesting observation is that more than one girl has gone to an art camp to improve her acting or musical abilities only to find herself falling in love with horses and becoming an avid rider. At least one dancer became entranced with synchronized swimming and eventually joined a professional troupe of water performers. Camps are more and more offering the most rounded approach to life and career pursuits that they can handle, which is always beneficial to the girls fortunate enough to spend a summer at one of these facilities.

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