Raising Good Humans in a Digital World: Helping Boys Build Real-World Friendships

If it feels harder these days for boys to make deep, real friendships — you’re not imagining it. Between screens, social media, and busy schedules, face-to-face connection has become something we have to consciously protect.

At Camp Winaukee, we often hear from parents who say, “I just want my son to have real friends again.”

Why Real Connection Matters

True friendship teaches boys empathy, loyalty, and self-awareness. But digital interaction often skips those deeper lessons. Online, it’s easy to hide behind filters or avoid conflict. In person, boys have to listen, read emotions, and practice kindness.

Creating Spaces for Connection

Friendship doesn’t happen by assignment, it happens through shared experience. That’s why camp, sports, and outdoor activities play such a crucial role. When boys spend time together without devices, they rediscover what connection feels like: laughter, teamwork, and trust built through shared challenges.

Parents Can Model It, Too

Boys watch how we connect. When we make time for our own friendships, or choose experiences over screen time, we show them that relationships are worth prioritizing.

At Camp Winaukee, we see how quickly boys form bonds when they’re immersed in real life; no Wi-Fi, no phones, just friendship in its purest form. And those bonds often last far beyond camp.

In a digital age, the best thing we can give boys isn’t another app — it’s opportunities for real connection.