Electronics-free summer camp at CVTC
At Carmel Valley Tennis Camp in beautiful Carmel Valley, California, we believe that the best summer memories are made face-to-face, not through a screen.
Parents choose CVTC for the high-quality tennis instruction and the caring, family-run environment.
What often surprises them is how powerful our electronics-free policy becomes for their child’s confidence, focus, and happiness.
In this article, we want to open the doors of our screen-free tennis camp.
You will see why unplugging during summer is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child.
What Makes CVTC Electronics Free
CVTC is a private, family-run tennis summer camp in California that has always placed people before technology.
During camp:
- Campers do not have personal phones, tablets, or gaming devices with them
- Days are filled with tennis, off-court activities, and cabin time with friends
- Staff members are present and available, so there is always a trusted adult nearby
Parents can still reach the office during business hours, and campers have limited access to a phone in the afternoons beginning on Wednesday to be able to call home if they want.
The goal is not to cut off communication.
The goal is to create a space where campers can live fully in the moment.
Why Kids Need a Screen Break in Summer
Most kids spend their school year surrounded by homework, social media, and constant notifications.
Summer can easily turn into more scrolling and more hours online.
Research and everyday experience tell us that too much screen time can affect:
- Sleep quality
- Attention span and emotional regulation
- Self-esteem, especially through social comparison
An electronics-free summer camp gives children a reset.
With no phones in their pockets, they are free to focus on what is in front of them.
A rally on court, a new friend at lunch, a joke shared in the cabin.
At CVTC, campers learn to read real expressions, listen actively, and feel what it is like to be truly present.
What an Unplugged Day at CVTC Looks Like
A typical day at our tennis summer camp in California is full and balanced.
Morning
The day begins with a Morning Meeting on our Center Court.
Campers gather with their tennis counselors to set intentions, hear announcements, and start the day as a community.
After that, they move into small group lessons (three non-consecutive hours) and drills, focusing on all the skills of the game, including groundstrokes, serves, footwork, doubles strategy, and much more.
When not on court, campers choose among the many off-court activities, including the Art House, Archery, Climbing Wall, outdoor basketball, ping pong, bumper pool, foosball, lawn games, and more.
Afternoon
After lunch and each group’s third lesson of the day, Team Tennis begins at 3.
Campers play matches, learn sportsmanship, and set simple goals for their game that day.
There is friendly competition, cheering,g and lots of encouragement.
The pool and hot tub are open from 1-6 with lifeguard-supervised games.
Evening
Evenings are for connection.
Each night, there are different organized and supervised all-camp activities, including mock game shows, trivia games, dances, talent shows, fashion shows, and more.
No phones, so campers talk to each other, not to a screen.
They laugh, support each other, and build friendships that often last for years.
This rhythm of focused tennis, healthy meals, rest, and community time helps campers feel safe, challenged, and happy.
Benefits Parents Notice After an Electronics-Free Summer
Parents often tell us that the real impact of CVTC shows up once their child returns home.
Common things families notice:
- More confidence in social situations
- Better eye contact and conversation skills
- Stronger sense of responsibility and independence
- A healthier relationship with technology
- Renewed love for outdoor play and movement
Campers also continue to work on their tennis with a new mindset.
They understand that effort, resilience, and good sportsmanship matter more than winning every point.
Is an Electronics-Free Camp Right for My Child?
It is normal for parents and kids to feel a little nervous about giving up phones for camp.
We see this every year.
Usually, the worry fades quickly.
Within a day or two, campers are too busy playing, learning and laughing to miss their devices.
Staff are trained to support homesick or anxious campers with warmth and patience.
An electronics-free tennis camp is especially helpful if:
- Your child spends many hours per day on a phone or computer
- You want them to build in-person friendships and social skills
- You value character, resilience, and kindness as much as sport performance
If any of these resonate, CVTC may be a very good fit.
How CVTC Combines Tennis Training With Life Lessons
Our core mission has always been to teach great tennis and great life skills at the same time.
On court, campers receive age and level-appropriate coaching, from beginners to competitive players.
They learn technique, strategy, and match play.
Off court, the electronics-free setting allows us to teach:
- Respect for others
- Responsibility for personal space and belongings
- Empathy and inclusion, especially for new campers
- Healthy ways to handle winning and losing
Because CVTC is family-owned and run, these values are modeled by our Directors and Staff every day.
For families looking for a tennis summer camp in California that feels personal and grounded, this combination is very special.
Ready to Give Your Child an Unplugged Camp Experience?
If you are searching for an electronics-free summer camp or a kids’ tennis camp in California, we would love for you to explore Carmel Valley Tennis Camp.
Visit our Why Choose CVTC page to learn more about our philosophy and ACA accreditation.
Then check our Dates and Prices to see which tennis sessions fit your family schedule.
Applications for Summer 2026 are now open.
Give your child the chance to grow in confidence, focus, and friendship in a safe, screen-free environment.
The memories they make at CVTC will stay with them long after summer ends.
