While limited phone reception has always made unplugging to connect a vital part of the Camp experience, we have decided to officially make Camp Protégé a cell phone free artist retreat.
Well being and connection have been at the heart of The Protégé Movement's mission since its inception. Our beautiful Canadian forest setting serves not only as the stunning backdrop to our workshop, but an invitation to look up from the screens we are so often connected to and open ourselves to the vastness of nature.
Particularly in recent years as cell phone use has become more pervasive and time away from devices more rare, studies have demonstrated the negative impact this dependency has on our mental well being, ability to focus, self worth, and capacity to navigate new and challenging experiences- especially for children and teenagers.
With this in mind, we feel that our intention to offer young artists a truly connected experience is best served by the invitation to step away from their device, the encouragement to fully engage in their present experience, and the support to navigate any potential impact this may have.
How it will work
How we will support
- In the first days of Camp, we will have a discussion lead by a professional to help navigate the impact of potential device withdrawal
- We will have a mental health specialist on site to offer emotional and mental support to Campers for the duration of Camp Protégé
- We believe that Campers' independence during this short six day experience promotes growth and self confidence, however in the event of an emergency, as defined by our mental health specialist, we have a landline that is accessible anytime if a child needs to be in touch with a family member.
Upon arrival on Camp grounds, all camper cell phones will be collected and kept safe with Protégé staff along with passports of campers traveling abroad. Phones will be returned to each camper upon sign out on departure day.
For more evidence based or in-depth information on the negative impacts of technology and social media on young people, we have linked a couple of starting points below: