Backward Day
On August 16, 2006, YMCA Camp Ernst campers and counselors woke to the lovely sound of taps, put their clothes on inside-out, lowered the flag, listened to announcements, ate dessert,
A Wiffle Effect
In fall 2006, after tabulating more than 1,500 camper evaluations, we discovered that Flagpole, a long-standing camp tradition, was described by the majority of campers as boring, hot,
Games For The Whole Gang
Looking for a way to pass the time with a group of campers? Whether it’s a few minutes or more than an hour, these activities will keep kids involved and interested.
Pioneer And Frontier Games
Looking to entertain campers on a budget? Try these activities that are sure to please both the wallet and the pickiest camper: Ring-To-Jug Toss With five wooden cross-stitch-type rings, participants
Magical Moments
As the last hour approaches, a Golem has been captured, and now the malevolent forest creatures will fall to the might of Irontown! Ninety strong, the warriors band together for the
No Props—No Problem
For those moments when you have plenty of time and space, but absolutely no equipment, here are four activities to help create something wonderful.
From Nothing To Something
Starting something from nothing isn’t a simple task. In 2015, Canoe Kentucky—a canoe and kayak outfitter with decades in the livery business—was facing a problem. The company noticed a steady decline in the
Movie Night Done Right
The quickest way to undo weeks of values-education at camp is a thoughtless movie night. There are two reasons for this, both of which all youth-development professionals should consider before screening the
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.
A New Year
Each year, we scour the industry looking for inventive, new programming ideas to share with readers. The best part is that these ideas are contributed by other camp directors, so they’ve already been tried and stamped with camper approval.
Strike Gold
When I remember my childhood, thoughts come flooding back about time spent outdoors building forts, boats, and other creations with whatever materials my siblings and I could find.
Top Programming Ideas 2003
Good ideas don't come easily. After all, inspiration is 99 percent perspiration. Ask any camp director and they'll tell you that a good portion of that perspiration comes from trial-and-error.
Top Programming Ideas 2004
Each camp year brings with it the usual struggle to not only maintain quality programming, but to tweak and revitalize it year after year.
Top Programming Ideas
No matter whether you operate a day camp or an overnight camp—there is always a need for fresh programming ideas. Every year, we scour the industry looking for the latest and greatest tips and
Themed Activities
When I am running a themed activity for the youngest campers (ages 8 and 9) at camp, the kids have so much fun that the oldest campers (ages 14 and 15) feel left out and want “in.” Here are two evening
Backward Day
On August 16, 2006, YMCA Camp Ernst campers and counselors woke to the lovely sound of taps, put their clothes on inside-out, lowered the flag, listened to announcements, ate dessert,
The Timber Rattler Run
Back in the 1980s during my college summers, I buried myself in camp culture and soaked up all the nuances it offered. Consistent themes of accepting campers as they came, warding off