The Cassidy Games
Way back, in the 11th year of the third millennium, a new competition was created at Camp Gray in Reedsburg, Wis. For those scoring at home, the year was … 2011.
First Impressions
In the movie Jerry McGuire, Cuba Gooding Jr.’s character Rod Tidwell wants Jerry to show him the money! When new families visit a camp website, they want to see the photos!
Peeling Away The Clutter
Over the last 25 years, and particularly in the last 10 years, Camp Fowler in Lake Pleasant, N.Y., has made intentional decisions that took into account how the world’s natural systems operate. During that time the camp has:
Praising Criticism
“If you want something sugar-coated, go eat a doughnut.” Ah, the wisdom of a T-shirt. Yet this little joke deftly captures the “Don’t ask me if you don’t want the truth” approach to management, an approach more youth leaders should embrace.
Don’t Let Allergies Be An Obstacle
As food allergies continue to be a public-health concern, it is ever more likely that camps will be asked to accommodate children with serious food allergies.
Get Your Game Face On
“Good afternoon, everyone! On my cue, your camp supervisors are going to start wrapping each other in toilet paper for 10 points and control of the game. On your mark, get set, go!”
Medical Training
While basics like CPR and first aid are generally covered, some items may go unnoticed, especially the importance of training staff members in medication administration.
Raise The “Stock Value”
The term “Common Core” has become a buzz term in public schools and has raised anxiety in parents and school officials. It is even making headlines in political advertisements for the 2016 presidential race.
Communicating With Children
Every year as I begin planning staff training, I prioritize activities that require certifications and licensing, but I really wish I could spend more time working with staff members on their communication skills.
Mystery Diner
One of my guilty pleasures is a TV show called Mystery Diner—where a restaurant owner brings in “restaurant detective” to help him or her solve a problem with his staff.