July/August 2022

Written By Danielle Beattie

VOLUME 22 | ISSUE 4

Adventure Programming

Who doesn’t love a good adventure? Behind every superhero cape and behind every princess tiara, there is a story that involves twists and turns and unexpected events. No matter how it ends, it’s the middle that has the most impact. The same is true for camp and adventure programming. The middle is where kids discover new things about themselves, take a risk, and dare to dream. Some might call it the cream between the two cookie sandwiches. We call it the best moments you give campers all summer—the right to be bold. Cheers to all of the staff members donning capes and tiaras and whatever costumes make campers smile at your camp.

 
 
 
 
 
 

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Camp Business is written by residential and day camp directors, staff members, and counselors. If that is you, then Camp Business is an important resource full of real-world experience you can use to solve problems, create new opportunities, and keep your community healthy and happy.

 
 
 
 
 

This Month’s Articles

Featured
Build An Adventure-Theory Framework
Scott Schneider and David Crye
Build An Adventure-Theory Framework
Scott Schneider and David Crye

There is no single recipe for building a successful camp, but there is one key ingredient that must be included—an exceptional staff. After spending almost 30 years immersed in camp culture, most recently as the Executive Director of Camp Operations, I have seen firsthand the impact of exceptional training on a camp’s success.

Scott Schneider and David Crye
Camp Administration 101: Coordinating Successful Field Trips
Jason Schaitz
Camp Administration 101: Coordinating Successful Field Trips
Jason Schaitz

Field trips are one of the most exciting parts of camp for campers but can be the most daunting for you and your staff members. Going off-site adds an extra layer of responsibility to ensure campers have a fun, yet safe experience.

Jason Schaitz
Hitting The Target
Jim Sexstone
Hitting The Target
Jim Sexstone

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.

Jim Sexstone
This-N-That
Guest User
This-N-That
Guest User

We know it’s been tough, so we asked readers to share how they fared through the pandemic and beyond. Here are some responses from those who were graciously willing to share. If you would like to add your thoughts to the conversation, feel free to drop us a line at editor@northstarpubs.com.

Guest User
Ironing Out The Details
John-Michael Kibrick
Ironing Out The Details
John-Michael Kibrick

While the real fun kicks off in the summer, preparations for camp begin long before the first child arrives. 

John-Michael Kibrick
Head Master Of Ice Cream Production
Jeff Portnoy
Head Master Of Ice Cream Production
Jeff Portnoy

Skylake Yosemite Camp in Wishon, Calif., has been producing its own ice cream and Italian ice for almost 10 years. Not only is it fun, but it’s easy. Plus, it’s a better product than can be purchased, and the “word-of-mouth” impact is incredible.

Jeff Portnoy
On The Menu
Linda Soper-Kolton
On The Menu
Linda Soper-Kolton

Decisions about food can be among the most complex that camp leaders have to make. Ensuring that the most important boxes of quality, cost, availability, safety, and nutrition are checked is serious business.

Linda Soper-Kolton
Adventure-Course Insurance Changes
Paul Carter
Adventure-Course Insurance Changes
Paul Carter

As summer camps get back into full swing—many for the first time since the pandemic began—some insurance companies are changing policies for certain camp activities.

Paul Carter
Camp Administration 101: Managing Camper Conflict
Jason Schaitz
Camp Administration 101: Managing Camper Conflict
Jason Schaitz

Regardless of how much time is spent acclimating kids to life at camp, there will almost always be incidents of kids not getting along. Examples can range from minor name-calling to severe bullying, fighting, or inappropriate language.

Jason Schaitz
Adventure-Programming Debriefs
Dr. Chris Thurber
Adventure-Programming Debriefs
Dr. Chris Thurber

There is no single recipe for building a successful camp, but there is one key ingredient that must be included—an exceptional staff. After spending almost 30 years immersed in camp culture, most recently as the Executive Director of Camp Operations, I have seen firsthand the impact of exceptional training on a camp’s success.

Dr. Chris Thurber
Sounds of Summer
Rodney Auth
Sounds of Summer
Rodney Auth

Sitting on my paddleboard with my legs dangling in the lake, I watched a bald eagle float by, gently circling a spot on the end of the lake no doubt looking for food. As I daydreamed and relaxed, I noticed another noise.

Rodney Auth
 
 
 
 

Product Review

Product Reviews
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter Straw
LifeStraw Personal Water Filter Straw

We took the most popular outdoor water filtration device on the market, and reimagined it for added versatility, sustainability, a better grip, and updated design and colors. This ultra lightweight personal water filter straw is made from sustainable materials, it has no extra parts to keep track of, and it boasts and enhanced flow rate for easy sipping. At 2 ounces and 5 years of safe water in the palm of your hand, no backpack, pocket, emergency bag or glove compartment should be without one. Your purchase has impact: For every LifeStraw product purchased, a school child in need receives safe water for an entire school year. 

https://lifestraw.com

Pit Command Commander
Pit Command Commander

For in-ground firepits, this is one multi-functioning tool! The carbon steel construction makes it strong and lightweight. A hook with large serrations make it deal for pulling, grabbing, and rolling big logs while the axe-like chopper head splits firewood into the perfect size. A sharp jabber on the end makes it convenient for using it as a traditional fire poker. Made with a high-heat powder coat that won't burn off in the fire. Proudly made in the USA. 

https://pitcommand.com 

The Good Charcoal
The Good Charcoal

The Good Charcoal burns hotter and longer than the competition, allowing you to use less charcoal for each BBQ session. You can also cook and serve food confidently knowing you’re burning pure acacia hardwood charcoal with no chemicals or additives. It is sustainably sourced from Namibia, Africa, where bush encroachment is invasive and detrimental to wildlife and people alike. It’s the only Forest Stewardship Council-approved charcoal in the USA since removing it from the environment has a positive effect on its surroundings.

https://www.thegoodcharcoal.com

Oatey Moda Supply Boxes
Oatey Moda Supply Boxes

The Moda Supply Box System is designed to meet the needs of plumbing contractors for washing machines, ice makers, lavatories, toilets, dishwashers, and SureVent Air Admittance Valve applications. Available in standard, fire-rated and gas models, modular boxes are made of PVC. The box can be mounted with a single screw to a behind-the-wall stud and set flush with the wall. Thanks to the two-piece design of the plumbing valve, no drywall needs to be cut during servicing: The tech simply removes the faceplate and disengages the copper LocPin clip holding the valve top and tail pieces together, removing the former in need of replacement. One faceplate is compatible with all MODA boxes. 

https://oatey.com  

CAMP&GO Deluxe Hard Arm Quad Chair
CAMP&GO Deluxe Hard Arm Quad Chair

Dependable. Portable. Comfortable. The CAMP&GO Deluxe Hard Arm Quad Chair has a steel frame, a breathable mesh back and padded fabric offering ultimate comfort. A compact design for easy transport and storage, plus a convenient cup holder, cell phone holder, and accessory pouch means this chair has it all.

https://rio.shelterlogic.com/rio-deluxe-hard-arm-quad-chair-oxblood-navy

 
 
 
 

Buyer’s Guide

 
 
 
 

Marketspace Spotlight

 

Coming Up

September/October

Facilities & Maintenance

  • Facilities & Day Camp Venues

  • Amenities & Maintenance

  • Continuing Education Programs

  • Camp Management Solutions

 
 

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Danielle Beattie
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