Summer Camp

In mid summer, children of Housan gather in the AMAN Centre to join in Housan's summer camp.

The children from all around the village sit outside having arrived early, eager to begin their mornings. The Children here are vibrant with energy and creativity. They are quick to befriend you. The sincerity and hospitality that is so vivid in the people of Housan, is reflected powerfully in their children.



Those at the summer camp are typical of the Palestinian children, subject to living under unique conditions of military occupation. This situation has lent to widespread social-psychological illness, educational weakness, and behavioural problems. It is through the summer camp that the children of Housan secure social education in a number of areas, from personal hygiene, and the risks of smoking to anti-aggressive behaviour.


During the two weeks of the summer camp, an Israeli jeep patrolled the main street, just outside the centre. However not uncommon, such actions aid in heightening the fears those already traumatised. Some expressed their fears of walking home. The children during the camp are encouraged to freely channel such fears emotions creatively, through art and drama. Watching the children engaging in group activity and games, the concern and awareness of those around them becomes apparent.


A highlight of the camp is the visit to Housan's spring; fresh water pours the tank where the children jump into cooling off from the midday heat.