Values Affirmation
Sometimes a technique to achieve success can be so simple that it’s tempting to think “that it is just too good to be true.” But before dismissing something that appears to be simple and wondering why isn’t everyone doing it, you might ask, “Is there any research to support that it works?”
Challenge-Course Gear Storage
Challenge courses are an important part of many camp programs. And constructing, maintaining, and staffing them are a big investment.
Camp Administration 101: The Art Of Station Rotation
Coordinating different activities and rotating groups from one station to the next is a common practice at camp and a great way to organize a lot of activities in a small amount of time.
Role Play With A Twist
As most trainers in any industry know, role playing is a great way for new staff members to obtain hands-on experience before actually getting their hands on anything. Role plays are typically conducted in a controlled environment with other staff members, and each scenario usually ends with a positive conclusion.
The Art Of Crafting
Arts-and-crafts projects are one of the cornerstones of camp activities. It is important to plan and organize these projects so campers understand what’s expected.
12 Stories That Tell About Your Camp
Camp leaders need to master the art of storytelling. Not just the campfire version—the marketing kind. Without stories, you can’t get good, consistent, local media coverage, which is vital to keeping a camp in the public eye and topmost in the mind of families.
Something A Little Extra
Summer camps often include special events on the calendar to create excitement beyond the routine activities. Yet often these events are one-dimensional as the programming may only feature costume dress-up or a themed show.
There’s A New Kid On The Block
Because I said I would is an international social movement and nonprofit 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to the betterment of humanity through promises made and kept. The organization was founded in 2012 following a viral internet offer to send ten Promise Cards at no cost, to anyone, anywhere in the world.
Born To Perform
Many kids dream of running away with the circus, but did you know they actually can? Celebrating its 35th anniversary in 2022, Circus Smirkus is a nonprofit, circus-arts organization that inspires kids of all ages to develop artistic, athletic, and life skills through the power of performance.
The Ultimate Bucket List
Put yourself mentally in the shoes of a 10- to 16-year-old, and then choose five things you would want to do as a middle-aged adult before you die; it’s difficult, weird, and easy—all at the same time.
More Than Lenses And Lighting
Founded in 1976, the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) has put cameras into the hands of hundreds of young filmmakers since summer camps began in 2013. SIFF Camps foster a fun, welcoming environment for young people to engage their creativity through film, with the freedom and technology to explore what excites them.
Embrace Hands-On Learning
The big hall was bustling with people setting up tables, looking for the rare electrical outlet, and rushing to be ready before the doors opened. It was my first time at a camp fair.
Coyote Mentors
For the majority of human history, children have played using their imagination and curiosity. In all that time—without television, video games, or mass-manufactured toys—kids have spent most of their free time exploring natural surroundings.
Hitting The Target
Thwacccccck. The sound of an arrow hitting the target in archery is a familiar and reassuring sound to many at camp. It is truly one of the sounds of summer.
Rituals At Camp
Take a moment and think about your nightly routine in falling asleep. Depending on your age, the answer may be very different from that of other camp professionals.
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.
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!
Things To Do At Day Camp
In the early 1980s, I had my first real job at a parks and recreation department. It had a strong sports program but lacked the typical day camps, craft programs, or dance classes that most other departments had.
Camp Administration 101: Stay Alert And No One Gets Hurt
Proper supervision of campers is of utmost importance to ensure the safety of participants and should be taken very seriously. Regardless if you are coordinating an activity, taking a trip, or even having downtime, counselors must make sure they never let their guard down.