Journal of developmental and behavioral pediatrics : JDBP
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J Dev Behav Pediatr · Feb 2020
Camps for Children with Cancer and Their Families: A Systematic Review of Psychosocial and Physical Impacts.
Camps for children with cancer and their families aim to promote positive psychosocial and physical outcomes for attendees. However, evidence for this is inconsistent, and previous reviews have not delineated between camps for children (patient/survivors and siblings) and family camps (including parents/guardians). Such understanding is necessary to understand the evidence-based benefits of each type of camp. Our systematic review summarizes the findings and limitations of the recent literature for children's camps and family camps. ⋯ The recent literature provides evidence for some positive, short-term psychosocial and physical outcomes of camps. Future research should use rigorous quasiexperimental designs and should assess the long-term impact of camp attendance.