Combatting The Trauma Of These Times
A few years ago, camping psychologist Bob Ditter and I co-facilitated several conference workshops. Bob would share a critical element in the health-and-wellness realm of camp staff members, and I would share an activity that explored that topic.
Questions Every Camp Should Answer About Child Safety
As you know, summer camps and recreation programs spark memories for children that last a lifetime and provide a reliable space where parents can expect their child to feel safe and supported. The trust parents seek to have in their child’s summer activity is important to reinforce—whether your organization offers a traditional camp experience, or an emerging enrichment activity such as coding or cosplay.
Appreciative Staff Training
Many campers credit a lifelong friendship that began with a new friend at camp. The strongest bonds can develop while spending lots of time together negotiating the challenges of communal living with a dozen new people, overcoming homesickness, or even feeling the support from another camper during a first horseback-riding lesson.
This-N-That
A collection of news items, product announcements, and event notices designed to keep you on the cutting edge.
Night Hikes
Night hikes are pretty common for stargazing, but what if it’s a cloudy night? Don’t worry—there’s plenty to do in any kind of weather—as long as it’s dark!
Three Real-World Aquatic Emergencies
In Camp Waterfront Management ($24.95 on Amazon), author Cathy Scheder emphasizes the distinction between lifeguards’ certifications and their competence. Scheder, who also holds a doctorate in educational leadership and serves on the faculty of the University of Wisconsin at Stevens Point, was one of the first aquatic professionals to advocate for rigorous on-site lifeguard training and skills verification.
Camp Administration 101: Guidelines For Swimming
Campers swimming and engaging in other water activities with friends can be the highlight of the summer. However, swimming is also dangerous and should be taken seriously
Everything You Need To Know (Maybe)
As an enthusiastic skier and ski patroller, my life moves in predictable rhythms. Beginning around Thanksgiving, I find as much time as possible to click into my skis—hiking and touring the backcountry before and after work to find some turns, and hit our local resort when time allots.
This-N-That
Looking for ways to beat the heat? Mix your favorite game with a little bit of water and you have a recipe for laughter and lighthearted fun. Here are some ideas:
GIG Chef Camp Offers Gluten-Free Culinary Skills
Gluten Intolerance Group’s Generation GF Teen Summit Offers an Immersive Two-day Gluten-free Chef Camp at The Culinary Institute of America
On The Waterfront
The waterfront can be the most fun—yet dangerous—part of a summer camp. Whatever water elements camps have (i.e., pools, ponds, or lakes), water safety remains one of the biggest concerns for most directors.
Social-Media Marketing
Historically, camp owners have difficulty promoting all of their facilities’ features and benefits. While advertising in publications invariably pays off, not all camps can afford it; in some cases, there aren’t any publications in a geographic area that would benefit them.
Technologically Savvy Risk Management
Traditionally, camps have provided a refuge from technology—a place where campers can unplug and enjoy the outdoors. In today’s world, however, some camps use technology as part of their programming
Great Fall Giveaway Winners Announced
Parks & Rec Business and Camp Business magazines are proud to announce the winners of the inaugural Great Fall Giveaway!
Boater's Guide to Boating During the Pandemic
2020 was a year unlike anything we could have imagined. It was a time when many of our most beloved activities were put on hold. It was a time when we had to stay further apart from each other than ever. In many ways, the fabric of our daily life was altered.
What Can We Do?
Dr. Jim Cain of Teamwork & Teamplay shares sustainable activities for real-world, in-person gatherings.
PSA Your Water May Be At Risk
As temperatures increase so does the possibility of a fish kill.
Roadmap To Recovery Webinar
“In an effort to do what we can to Inspiring Growth with great leaders through this difficult season I have gathered a group of 10 seasoned professionals with 201 years of camp and non-profit experience.”