Summer Camp Magazine | Camp Magazine | Summer Camps 2014 | Campnavigator Magazine by CampNavigator

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Vol. 3, Issue 2 T H E U LT I M AT E M A G A Z I N E F O R C A M P E R S , P A R E N T S & FA M I L I E S

What is the

Power of Camp? Raising more confident Teens Lessons in Leadership The Role of Summer Camps in

Connecting Children

with Nature Helping Your Child

Through Pre-Camp Anxiety

Developing Teen Leadership Skills

Benefits of pre-college

Summer Programs

10Investment in YouR Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Future

Reasons Performing Arts Programs are a Good

Benefits of Summer Camp

for those with Autism

Choosing an Adventure Camp

Key Questions to Ask

Schools Out and Its Time to Learn!

Camp Winnebago Scan and Connect to

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EDITOR’S LETTER

WELCOME! Is everyone ready for Summer Camp? Hopefully you have successful navigated through the Summer Camp & Summer Program possibilities for you and your family, and have secured your spot for a fun summer. If you haven’t already secured your spot, it’s time to start navigating with CampNavigator.com! In this issue we showcase an amazing boys camp that offers a variety of activities where boys can learn, have fun, and enjoy some amazing hiking, canoeing, and kayaking overnight trips. We showcase a global leadership youth program that provides high school students meaningful and exciting teen volunteer abroad programs, we feature a science camp that introduces students to the fun of science, highlight a teen camp that focuses on fun, connection, self-awareness, and self-expression, feature a wonderful performing arts camp that builds confidence and teaches perseverance, showcase an amazing marine science camp that puts students in direct physical contact with their local bay environment to help cultivate their natural sense of curiosity while enriching their understanding of science, and much, much more. We share some amazing camp pictures, exciting camp videos, and provide much more information about summer camps and summer programs. At CampNavigator, we give parents accurate, insightful and valuable information, empowering them to make informed decisions about summer camps & summer programs. CampNavigator Magazine shares knowledge to enrich the lives of children, youth and adults through the camp & summer program experience. We hope that you and your family are able to find the right summer camp or summer program for your needs. Enjoy your search as you navigate with CampNavigator.com! …And we hope you enjoy this issue of CampNavigator Magazine!

Your CampNavigator Team.

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CampNavigator

EDITOR IN CHIEF Jeffery Nadeau

MAILBAG

Your rants and raves..

ART EDITOR Wishesh Info Media

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Vol. 3, Issue 2 T H E U LT I M AT E M A G A Z I N E F O R C A M P E R S , P A R E N T S & FA M I L I E S

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mark Diedering, Roxanne Diesel, Kylie Wright, Sherry Wolff Moxley, Andy Lilenthal, Jason Sebell, Bob Hagen, Emily Morris, Sara McDaniel, M. Diane McCormick, Nancy Miller, Aaron Disco, Sarah Cramer, Omega Institute & Omega Teen Camp, Martha C. Knight, Summer Study Programs, Eric Martin, Judith Patterson, Tobin Felfe

What is the

Power of Camp? Raising more confident Teens Lessons in Leadership The Role of Summer Camps in

Connecting Children

with Nature Helping Your Child

Through Pre-Camp Anxiety

Developing Teen Leadership Skills

Benefits of pre-college

Summer Programs

10Investment in YouR Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Future

Reasons Performing Arts Programs are a Good

TO CONTRIBUTE / ADVERTISE Jeffery Nadeau eMag@CampNavigator.com

Benefits of Summer Camp

for those with Autism

Choosing an Adventure Camp

Key Questions to Ask

BACK ISSUES & ENQUIRIES Jeffery Nadeau jeffn@CampNavigator.com

Schools Out and Its Time to Learn!

ISSUE PUBLISHED BY Wishesh Info Media

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DISTRIBUTED AND POWERED BY Venosft Inc

The entire contents of CampNavigator are copyright 2012 by CampNavigator. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part, or use without written permission of the publisher, of editorial, pictorial, or design content, including electronic retrieval system is prohibited in the United States & foreign countries. The trademark and tradename, CampNavigator is owned by CampNavigator. The publisher does not assume responsibility for statements or work by advertisers. All submissions to CampNavigator are made on the basis of a licence to publish the submission in CampNavigator, while every care is taken, neither CampNavigator, nor its agents, accept any liability for loss or damage. Our contributors offer a diversity of views; their opinions are their own and not necessarily shared by Wishesh Info Media.

Special thanks to our contributors, advertisers, and readers for making this magazine possible.

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Contents

May 2014

GLOBAL LEADERSHIP ADVENTURES

CLUB SCIENTIFIC

OMEGA

MARINE SCIENCE INSTITUTE

DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTHEAST TEXAS

KEF SUMMER SCHOOL USA

WINDRIDGE TENNIS CAMP

HARRISBURG UNIVERSITY

EXPERT ONLINE TRAINING

CAMP WINNEBAGO

SUMMER STUDY

CATS PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS

U.S. SPACE CAMP

CAMPS KENWOOD & EVERGREEN

ADVENTURE LINKS

INCREDIFLIX CAMP

EVENTS CALENDAR

U.S. PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS

MT HOOD KIWANIS

CAMP CHATUGA

CITY OF CHANDLER

SOUTH CAROLINA PTA

TAHOE EXPEDITION ACADEMY

COCHRAN MILLS NATURE CAMP

PHOENIX BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS

JULIAN KRINSKY

OAKLAND ZOO

CAMP BARNABAS

EDVENTURE MORE

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Lessons in Leadership: The Role of Summer Camps in Developing Teen Leadership Skills Sara McDaniel, Global Leadership Adventures If we’ve heard it once, we’ve heard it a thousand times. For the teens of today, leadership rules.

The most important thing on many teenagers’ checklists? Demonstrating leadership potential.

Our youth are constantly competing against one another to be the best and brightest, and parents are now thinking about far more than simply ensuring that their children have an entertaining summer break from school. Now, they’re responsible for helping them to enhance their résumés, and therefore their future opportunities, at every turn.

So, where does the fun fit in? As parents, we want our children to be well-rounded and cultured, but not while sacrificing their education, and certainly not at the expense of their rare opportunities to relax and be kids! This is where summer opportunities come into play- and choosing the right summer program, with the right combination of adventure and enrichment, can be a daunting task.

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Why Leadership? There’s a reason that our society seems obsessed with the idea of leadership. College essays, scholarship applications, and admissions boards are seeking students who have proven that they have what it takes to be leaders. Job interviews, even for entrylevel positions, often focus on discussing past successes and challenges with leading or managing others. We know this, and so we do our best to prepare children with the experiences they need to demonstrate their leadership potential. One of the most effective opportunities for developing leadership skills is through a summer program with a leadership focus. These programs are excellent options, as they allow students to expand their leadership

capabilities while exploring something they are passionate about or interested in. In the words of Richard Shaw, Stanford’s Dean of Undergraduate Admissions. “What we care about is that students have done something that means something to them.” Programs that pair leadership and personal passions range from summer camps in the Rockies to leadership forums at prestigious universities, from sports camps to backpacking treks...if you can name it, someone is offering it. By combining a proven leadership curriculum alongside an interest or hobby, summer leadership programs allow students to gain the experience they need while also enjoying their break from school!

Summer Volunteer Programs With an increasing focus on volunteer work, in addition to leadership, during the college admissions and job-seeking processes, programs that allow students to do service work are among the top choices by parents and students. These programs provide authentic, meaningful leadership experience and allow students to gain precious community service hours.

tremendous personal growth and leave with a much clearer understanding of the impact that great leaders can have on the world.

International volunteer programs offer a gateway to knowledge, exploration and service for teenagers, all while expanding and enriching their understanding of the world around them. When programs are held in developing countries, students can play an active role in assisting a community in need, and they can also immerse themselves in a culture far different from their own. These programs impact students on many levels, and while the experience abroad is an eye-opening one, they also experience www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

A Heightened Appreciation When teenagers return from summer leadership programs, especially if they traveled abroad, the first thing many parents notice is their renewed appreciation for the lives they lead and the opportunities they are given. As Pamela Schmidt, whose daughter visited to Cost Rica on a Global Leadership Adventures program, put it, “She returned much more confidant and ready to try new things, and had matured a lot in a short period of time. My expectations were exceeded. This went much farther than merely “seeing” another culture. She was as

fully immersed as possible, and came back with a desire to be a leader not only abroad, but in her home community.” Experiencing drastically different ways of life allows students to gain a better understanding of their own opportunities, and to reflect back on the cultural borders they crossed on their summer adventure. The leadership skills that are gained during a summer program do not simply add to a teen’s résumés – they are skills that they continue to rely and build upon in the future.

Transformative Experiences There are hidden benefits to summer programs as well, especially when it comes to the development of teenagers’ social skills. While participating in summer programs, teenagers from all over the country form inseparable bonds with one another, working together in their new surroundings and having tons of fun along the way. There is no better chance to combine education, personal development and to instill a personal sense of adventure in

your child than through an opportunity to participate in a summer program with like-minded peers. It is an experience they will draw from and reflect back on for the rest of their lives, and although it can be scary to imagine sending your child on a program without you, it is a life lesson they’ll appreciate even more as they mature. They’ll gain leadership experience, of course, but they’ll also learn a lot about working with people from other backgrounds- a skill that is just as valuable in today’s global society.

A New Understanding of Leadership Teens who have the chance to participate in summer leadership programs often have a completely different understanding of leadership when they return home. The skills they develop are no longer reserved for the future, but instead become tangible opportunities to make a difference- and this realization of their potential can be life-changing. Such was the case when 16 year-old Lauren Sundstrom, who traveled to Ghana in 2011 on a volunteer program with Global Leadership Adventures. 8

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Lauren’s mom, Lisa, originally enrolled her daughter in the summer program because she was “worried about Lauren’s confidence. She didn’t seem happy or passionate, and it was almost as if she was searching for something.” After spending three weeks in Ghana, serving some of the nation’s poorest children at various school sites and orphanages while participating in leadership activities, Lauren returned home with a new outlook on her privileged life.

“I left Ghana with sense of responsibility to help the amazing people I met in any way that I could,” says Lauren. “I felt empowered as a leader and as someone who could make an impact on the world. I wasn’t worried about being a teenager. I wasn’t worried about the barriers that might stand in my way. I just knew that I could make a difference!” Nearly three years later, Lauren is a freshman in college, and she has raised over $100,000 through her non-profit organization,

Clothes for Hope. With the funds, Lauren has financed the construction of a school and a library for the community that she visited on her summer leadership program, as well as purchased hundreds of pounds of books and supplies for use by the teachers and children.

“I can’t imagine where I’d be if I hadn’t taken the chance to participate in a summer program that meant something to me,” says Lauren. “The skills I developed and the passion I uncovered were life-changing.”

WATCH VIDEO ON YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2eexwPYJtZM

VISIT OUR WEBSITE http://www.experiencegla.com/

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GET A FREE CATALOG AT experienceGLA.com

Life-changing Volunteer Programs for High School Students to Africa, Asia & Latin America +1 858-771-0645 | info@experienceGLA.com 10

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Schools Out and Its Time to Learn! Summer is soon approaching. It will be a time for children to run, swim, and catch fireflies-and study, too. Did we say study? Studying in the summertime? The kids have been working hard the entire school year and deserve some fun and relaxation. But, that does not mean that learning should completely stop for the summer months.

For many years, scholars have recognized that summer vacation is a period of time when studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rate of academic development declines relative to the school year. All children lose academic skills during the summer months, and family socioeconomic status is highly correlated to the level of growth or decline during the summer months.

There is certainly nothing wrong with finding a way to combine learning and summer fun, and allow a young people to be involved in some activities that help prevent some of the loss of all they learned during the school year.

So what can parents do to keep kids involved with the learning process during summer? What role can summer camp attendance have on a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s academic and social progress? Here are a few simple ideas for parents to use.

Reading Something Daily Children need to read something everyday. Reading keeps the brain challenged and functioning at an optimal level. Good reading skills will help with learning success in many subject areas. Reading comprehension is required to understand every other school subject, including math. Not only will lessons and instructions be read and understood, but the better a child can decode in reading, then the better his or her brain can decode in other areas. Daily reading practice also keeps the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reading level current or can even improve it.

Combine Summer Learning With Family Fun Parents should be attentive to what their child has learned during the school year and incorporate that into family fun. If a child learns about plants during the school year, then why not plant a garden. There is a lot of reading and math involved in this exercise. If the child has learned about managing money and finances and the family is going on a camping trip soon, allow the child to compile a supply list for a family camping trip, including the cost. Give the child a budget to stick to and a basic idea of the things that may be needed. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Attend An Academic Summer Camp A well-designed academic summer camp can throw together all of the best ingredients to insure a child maximizes their summer fun and learning. It is the best of both worlds! A summer camp will not only assist children in maintaining their learning level when school is not in session, it will also provide a great opportunity to cultivate skills in specific areas. This is the best strategy for children to take who want to maximize their skills in science, technology, music, chess, reading and math. In addition, summer camp is the most effective source for children to enhance their overall growth and development of the body. By successfully completing different types of tasks and activities, they can learn how to live life and develop self-confidence. Exposure to new areas of learning can also open up a whole new world to a child. For example, science and technology camps offer children a chance to gain confidence and proficiency by presenting hands-on inquiry based experiments

and projects. Many camps offer real world applications in experimental design, robotics, video game design, computer programming, animation, and filmmaking. As children are learning new skills, they are also maintaining or improving upon the skills they learned in traditional academic settings. Products that were developed using scientific inquiry constantly surround children. Scientific literacy has become an absolute necessity for everyone, and young people can experience and understand how these things work in our every day life. The additional good news is that most academic camps also combine social and team building activities with outdoor fun! Many camps also offer scholarships and financial assistance to families that would not normally have the means to send their kids to camp. Children really do get the best of both worlds with an academic summer camp. This includes brain sharpening activities, and a chance to play, have fun, and just be a kid!

Bob Hagan-President Club Scientific LLC www.clubscientific.com

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RAISING MORE CONFIDENT TEENS

Looking for a boost of encouragement to help your teen become more confident? Try some new strategies from leading experts.

The teen years can be rocky both for kids and parents. You want them to be happy, have friends, and be successful in their lives. Yet, many days they don’t seem up to playing the part you were hoping for them. Your teen may come across as moody, rebellious, or just out of sorts.

Brené Brown says she received some of her best parenting advice from Toni Morrison who said, “Let your face speak what’s in your heart. When they walk in the room my face says I’m glad to see them. It’s just as small as that, you see?”

It’s so easy to get overly critical or to wish for some magic parenting book to give you all the answers of how to handle your teenager. But the truth is, you both have to work together and communicate to find the right balance.

Increasing Your Self-Confidence to Increase Your Teen’s Self-Confidence Brown suggests one of the first steps to help increase confidence in your teens is to engage with them in a loving manner. In her Wholehearted Parenting Manifesto, she writes, “I want you to engage with the

world from a place of worthiness. You will learn that you are worthy of love, belonging, and joy every time you 14

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see me practice self-compassion and embrace my own imperfections.” Parenting expert Dr. Sears agrees. “If you suffer from low self-confidence, especially if you feel it’s a result of how you were parented, take steps to heal yourself and break the family pattern,” Sears writes.

Follow Your Intuition Sil Reynolds encourages moms to cultivate their inner capacity that already knows how to mother. She recommends moms get in touch with that intuitive nature and follow those natural tendencies to be more involved in their daughters’ lives.

“Although their mood swings and ambivalent feelings make it challenging to remember it, our teenage daughters crave our everyday guidance and loving support in their lives,” she writes in her book Mothering and Daughtering. “She needs to depend on you in order to become independent, she needs healthy attachment to you in order to become secure, and she needs to be guided and protected by you as she establishes an authenticity that will give her the confidence she needs in life.”

Self-Care Is Key It’s not always easy to listen to this intuitive voice and keep your own confidence up with teens. Laurence Steinberg, one of the country’s foremost authorities on puberty, conducted a study of parents when their firstborns entered the teen years and found that 40 percent saw a decline in mental health, reporting feelings of rejection, low self-worth, and distress.

Practicing Mindfulness Research has found that mindfulness

practices enhance learning, improve focus, and can help boost self-esteem.

“These skills can help teenagers navigate effectively through a time in life that can be confusing, filled with uncertainties, and exceedingly stressful,” writes Jon Kabat-Zinn in his foreword to the book Learning to Breathe. These life-skills form the basis for building successful relationships, beginning with oneself.” New to mindfulness? Try starting with this

step-by-step, moment-by-moment meditation from Kabat-Zinn

Practice, Practice, Practice Parenting is a work in progress and increasing confidence for both teens and parents requires practice. Keep exposing your teen— and yourself—to different ways to develop confidence. And when all else fails, a little laughter or a new adventure can never hurt.

Submitted by Omega Institute & Omega Teen Camp

With Steinberg’s work in mind, taking time to be more mindful and nourish yourself might be one of the best ways to boost your own confidence and that of your teen.

omega

teen camp OmegaTeenCamp.org

July 13– Aug 16

2014

Join the fun!

For ages 13–17

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Too old for kids camps, or looking for the perfect place to be yourself and still fit in? At Omega Teen Camp, you have the freedom to explore, discover, and be who you really are—while connecting with other teens in a genuine way. You also get to choose from more than 50 activities each day. For the experience of a lifetime, OTC is the place to be!

call 800.944.1001 or visit OmegaTeenCamp.org to learn more 16

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Mud-streaked members of the “Mud Club” proudly wear their face paint to declare their pledge to respect and protect all parts of nature—even the ooey-gooey mud, and its slimy-grimy citizens. This pledge echoes the message inherent in all camp activities at the Marine Science Institute. Marine science camp is an exciting way for children to spark an interest in science and nature or to deepen a budding biologist’s enthusiasm and appreciation for learning. At once, science and stewardship become play—and everyone wins when they are empowered to connect with nature, and discover that they love to learn. The Marine Science Institute was founded in 1970, around the time that the issue of water resources was becoming a major concern for many San Francisco Bay Area inhabitants. The Institute’s philosophy was founded on the idea that putting students in direct physical contact with their local bay environment will help cultivate their 18

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natural sense of curiosity while enriching their understanding of science and fostering a responsibility to protect their environment. Since then, our mission has always been to inspire respect and stewardship for the marine environment through experiential learning. Now, in a time of renewed concern for water resources and the environment, the need to engage young scientists is more important than ever. Marveling at a shark that they caught on our research vessel or peering through a microscope at plankton on a slide connects campers with the wildlife and environment that surrounds them. What they don’t realize is that these memories will influence their lives and attitudes about nature well beyond camp. In fact, we have taken pleasure and pride in watching campers grow into volunteers and eventually into MSI Instructors. Once affected by this love of learning from nature, our future scientists keep coming back for more.

MSIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Marine Camp provides hands-on curriculum for young scientists in kindergarten through 12th grade. Participants experience marine life up close in a fun, safe, and exciting atmosphere. Our knowledgeable instructors lead week-long explorations of the San Francisco Bay and Pacific coastline.

Choose from a range of day camps that are grade-specific and focus on different aspects of the marine environment. 15-16 campers enjoy the attention of 2 Marine Camp staff members plus enthusiastic volunteers. Each camp features a Discovery Voyage aboard our research vessel, Robert G. Brownlee. Marine camp is only the first part of your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s journey! Family membership is included with camp, and provides access to exciting events year-round.

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Connecting Children with Nature at the Desert Botanical Garden By Emily Morris, Informal Science Education Coordinator Stop for a minute and think back to your childhood; what is your most striking memory of being outside? I would bet that the memory that jumps into your mind does not include playing sports or climbing on a jungle gym or other equipment; I bet it was in the natural environment, was dirty and unstructured, and definitely fun. These are the types of experiences that we provide and teach about to our children and families at the Desert Botanical Garden. It is not surprising to many of us that the recent scientific literature researching the ways in which children grow into environmentallyminded adults highlights the importance of experiences like these. From a study that surveyed hundreds of nature-loving adults, the two things that all of these people had 20

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in common were that as children they spent lots of unstructured time outside and often shared those times with a loving adult. Unfortunately, children today spend half as much time outside as their parents did. There are a myriad of factors that can be blamed for this decline including safety concerns, over-reliance on technology, and even the economy. But kids are definitely not a lost cause. Organizations like the Desert Botanical Garden are at the forefront of education for children and adults. The more opportunities there are for families to get outside and learn about the unique Sonoran Desert, the more environmentally-minded adults we will have in 20 years.

The Desert Botanical Garden’s programs focus on connecting the entire family to nature through shared experiences as well as the more traditional “kid-only” programs like summer camp. These programs encourage autonomy and empowerment. So many kids today are told what to do, how to do it, and how long to spend doing it. Our summer camps give time for kids to design their own experiments, ask their own questions, and this leads to their own conclusions. These are not packaged, predetermined pieces of science. Sometimes the experiment fails – maybe the leaves blow away or the ants escape – but everyone learns and no one gives up. What an amazing gift to be able to give to a child.

Photograph by Adam Rodriguez

If you want your child or grandchild to grow up to really care about the environment, they have to love it first. The key to loving nature is to spend lots of time with it and in it – with you! Take kids outside to explore, whether it’s just in your backyard or at the Desert Botanical Garden. We never know how nature will continue to connect with us. Photograph by Adam Rodriguez

http://www.dbg.org/ www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

For more information, please call 480 481.8123. To register, visit dbg.org/camp or call 480 481.8121.

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Summer camp at the Garden is always an adventure! Each day our campers become scientists as they use their powers of observation in the classroom and on the trail to learn about the world around them.

AGES 4 – 6 | 8:30 A.M. – 12:30 P.M. Sensational Seeds (May 27–30) Fly, float, sprout and spring with songs, art, hands-on discovery and exploration of plants, fruit and seeds.

Desert Friends (June 9–13) Explore how desert plants and animals work together in this harsh climate.

AGES 7 – 12 | 8:30 A.M. – 3:30 P.M. Pollination Pals (June 16–20) Learn about bats, butterflies, hummingbirds and bees through fun, hands-on activities.

Planet Rescue (July 7–11) Learn how scientists are working to conserve plants, animals, habitats, water and energy, and how you can help the environment.

How to be a Scientist (July 14–18) Conduct experiments and collect real-world data in this in-depth introduction to what it means to be a scientist. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas Summer Camp Camp is for You! Girl Scout Camp is a place where girls can create memories, make new discoveries, develop lifelong friendships and learn new skills. We strive to make camp a place for girls to become the best they can be, learn to care for and protect the environment, and become leaders in the camp community and beyond.

Girl Scout camp offers an array of benefits including: Romoting the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of every girl and adult. Developing resourcefulness, initiative, self-reliance, and recognition of the worth of each individual. Developing a sense of responsibility, qualities of leadership, and awareness of the capacities for all. Stimulating appreciation of the natural world and awareness of the need for conservation. Gaining valuable life lessons and develop lifelong coping skills.

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Resident/Overnight Camps Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas offers three Resident Summer Camp locations; Camp Bette Perot, Camp Gambill, and Camp Rocky Point. Sessions range from three to six days in length and offer something for everyone, from the girly-girl to the adventurous type.

Camp Bette Perot is located 100 miles southeast of the Dallas area in beautiful East

Texas between Palestine and Athens. Campers stay in cabin units of up to 32 girls, platform tents of up to 24 girls, or in a lodge of up to 20 girls. Camp Bette Perot is home to our award-winning Equestrian Program with a large riding arena and diverse riding trails. Camp program facilities include the new Bette Perot Aquatic Center with an Olympic-size swimming pool, extensive nature study sites, a sports/ game field, an archery range, and a ropes challenge course. All cabins and lodges at Bette Perot are airconditioned.

“

I learned about horse anatomy and how much science and math you need to know to keep horses happy and healthy. You need to know science to know what to feed them and when and math to figure out how much.– 12 year-old camper

Camp Gambill is a beautifully wooded 54-acre facility located in Sumner, Texas.

Featuring a sandy private waterfront, this camp has a swimming area protected by a floating pier, modern canoes and kayaks, a sand volleyball court, Goosey Golf, and other outdoor activities. Hiking trails weave amid the trees that cover the inland camping areas and a tranquil pond offers opportunities to discover aquatic life. Airconditioning is provided in the cabins and in the Gander Hall dining facility. The three-day sessions at Camp Gambill focus on first-time camp experiences while the six-day programs are perfect for girls who are ready for longer adventures.

“

As a parent, I experienced great warmth and concern from the staff at camp Gamibll last summer.

– Parent of 7 year-old camper

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“

My daughter had a wonderful time at camp. When I picked her up from her week, she barely stopped for breaths the entire way home, approx. 1 ½ hrs.

– Parent of 8 year-old camper

Day and Twilight Camp Girls who may not be ready to spend overnights away from

home can experience the adventure, fun and excitement of Girl Scout Camp through Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas’ Day and Twilight Camps! Girls attend the camp during the day or evening and return to their homes at night. Outdoor activities, new friends, and special memories are part of what makes Day/Twilight Camp a great experience for girls! Day/Twilight Camp themes and locations vary to give your camper more options and give you a more convenient trip to and from camp.

“

I learned that you shouldn’t let being scared of something hold you back from doing it. Go for it.

For more information on Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas Summer Camps, visit

www.gsnetx.org/camp or call : 972.349.2400

– 9 year-old camper

Do you like working with children? Check

out the leadership programs from Girl Scout Seniors and Ambassadors. You’ll meet other girls like you who LOVE to go to camp and want to make a difference in the lives of younger Girl Scouts! Leadership programs require a separate application, which is available online. Applicants will be notified if they are accepted into the program and sent a camp registration form.

www. gsnetx.org/leadership More information at

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Participating in an ESL camp is an introduction to an English-speaking environment, with a focus on improving English proficiency and having fun. Learning English as a Second Language (ESL) is a valuable asset that conveys distinct benefits upon those who undertake that education. However, not all ESL programs are created equally, and choosing the right one can mean the difference between reaping these benefits, or forfeiting them.

done in an environment that gives the student the ability to test their English language skills with individuals other than their instructors; such as their fellow students, non-instructor staff, and people outside the program as is typical of and ESL total-immersion program in a camp setting. A summer camp setting is ideal for this type of instruction because by interacting with different people, and getting feedback from multiple sources, the student can then take Generic materials Students do not feel like ownership of their education may satisfy the technical they are “being taught” by assessing themselves and requirements of an ESL when they play sports, reflecting on what they have education, but they often fail learned. Learning in a fun, safe video games, attend to convey real insight into the environment that compels the amusement parks, or English language and its usage. engage in recreational student to use their English Detailed materials designed to and language-oriented language skills in an immersive suit the student’s strengths and activities. That they are experience yields lasting weaknesses are more effective results. The summer camp doing all of this in English at yielding positive results. experience places the student serves to reinforce the in comfortable surroundings lessons of the classroom The quality of an ESL and provides them all the and magnify the effect program is largely (if not tools they need to succeed in of instruction through entirely) determined by the learning and advancing their engagement. Practice quality of the instructors. There use of English. does indeed make is no substitute for trained, perfect, and getting qualified, experienced, and The ability to reflect, assess, students to practice motivated educators that engage and advance is English outside of the can tailor the program and empowering. Those of us who materials to the students needs classroom in recreational work for our students at KEF and collect feedback from the USA see this as the ultimate setting is a powerful students to continually improve reinforcement technique. goal of our ESL training the methods and materials regiment, and it is also the used. Of all the tools available lens through which we view all to ESL educators worldwide, access to a other ESL programs: those who aim for sophisticated staff of instructors is far and and reach that objective, and those who do away the most important. A summer camp not. By providing a summer adventure that setting allows for continuous instructor- reinforces the lessons of our ESL intensive student interaction throughout the day, program through total-immersion, we feel much more that in a classroom setting. KEF USA exceeds those aims by delivering much more than an exceptional education. A focused curriculum is one that that We utilize the power of imagination and takes measured steps towards achieving entertainment to enhance the impact of our a goal. The goal of learning ESL must be ESL education by making it a less daunting purpose-driven, and progress must be By and a more memorable Nancy Miller, Director ofexperience Admissionsthat will regularly measured. As such, this is best last a lifetime! 28

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Harrisburg University Summer Camp Academic summer camps M. Diane McCormick

Charles Palmer takes it as a compliment when parents ask, “What have you done to my child?” His students in Harrisburg University of Science and Technology’s summer gaming academy don’t just learn how to develop video games but also work in teams and build the communications skills needed for success in any career.

through hands-on projects, our brains get mushy, and those skills can be lost,” says Katie Willse, chief program officer for the National Summer Learning Association, Baltimore.

But not every summer program has lasting impact. For a truly educational experience, parents must find programs that meet high standards of quality and academic “I constantly have parents say to us afterwards, expectations. ‘Wow, I didn’t expect this,’” says Palmer, executive director of the Center for Advanced “There are a lot of programs that provide Entertainment & Learning Technologies at safe spaces for kids, that create really fun and HU in Harrisburg, PA. engaging environments, and those are critical and important, but without an intentional Educational summer programs can help focus on skill-building, the program is not halt “summer slide,” the well-documented necessarily going to result in academic gains tendency of children and young adults to for kids,” says Willse. “It’s not going to happen backslide academically during school breaks. by accident.” They can prepare children for the next level of their academic careers and turn interests Learning and summer fun are “not mutually into career trajectories. exclusive,” says Willse. Consider these seven criteria for selecting the best program for “Without engagement in the summer, in your child: activities that keep skills fresh and sharpened PURSUE THE PASSION: Your child doesn’t need advanced skills in a particular discipline. Just find the interest that ignites curiosity. Even Palmer’s gaming academy is open to students who can’t draw or do computer programming, because they can practice production, story development, management, IT support, and marketing. “If they have a passion and are willing to work hard, we can push them in the direction their particular skills go,” says Palmer. 30

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DOSAGE: The NSLA suggests 150 hours of summertime learning, so look for programs with a strong focus and a “compilation of experiences” around a particular discipline, says Willse. Still, it’s important that kids get breaks, especially in sleep-over camps, says Palmer. His one-week residency students attend baseball games and see movies “because we need to be not hitting them with game stuff all the time.” CHOICE: Even programs focused on one discipline should offer kids self-directed activities and a variety of pursuits. “There should be room for choice and flexibility,” says Willse.

INDIVIDUALIZED LEARNING: As every parent knows, kids have different learning styles and learn at different rates. Look for a low staff-to-youth ratio, and one-on-one or small group support. GOAL-SETTING AND ASSESSMENT: A strong program assesses students’ skills and tracks their growth. “If a program is able to provide those things, it means they have an intentional plan in place,” says Willse. Palmer’s students are assigned daily goals and make presentations on their progress. “It’s not a free-for-all,” he says. “They have milestones they have to hit.” UNIQUE PROGRAM CULTURE: Programs should have a “fun, dynamic, camp-like feel,” with such traditional summer camp features as chants and competitions, says Willse. “The leaning almost gets hidden in the fun. Kids are drawn to that.” ALIGNMENT WITH SCHOOL: Many schools operate their own programs or partner with universities, offering curricula that anticipate the coming year’s academics. Willse recalls one student whose pre-calculus summer program prepared her for the day that the syllabus was handed out for the school year. “There were all these other students who were, in her words, freaking out because it was so hard,” she says.

In the end, successful academic summer camps teach more than the intricacies of specific disciplines. Harrisburg University’s summer exploration camps immerse students in gaming, Lego robotics, geospatial information systems, nanobiotechnology, entrepreneurship, and transportation. But no matter their interests, students learn the soft skills demanded in school and careers. Teamwork, communications, problem-solving – all are essential to nudging children to “branch out and think beyond themselves,” says Palmer. The key to success, says Willse, is the passion that children bring to the experience. “Kids learn best when they’re engaged in things they enjoy,” she says. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

SUMMER EXPLORATION CAM PS Are you naturally curious? Do you like to fix things, make things, or understand how things work by taking them apart? Wouldn’t it be great if you could earn college credit while having fun exploring your passion? If you’re in high school and ready to test out a college class, the Summer Exploration Camps are the perfect opportunity! Earn college credit and have fun. It’s a great way to stay active this summer. Meet new people who have similar interests, and test out college courses that have been specially designed for this summer exploration format. Studying science or technology can go hand-in-hand with having fun—especially in the summer, when you’re free to explore the things that really get you thinking.

Ready to join us this Summer? Topics for 2014 Summer Exploration Camps include: • Exploring Video Gaming: Summer Game Academy • Exploring LEGO Robotics Admissions Academic Program Coordinator, • Exploring Geospatial Information Systems (GIS) at 717.901.5121 or by email at • Nanobiotechnology Explorations PYoung@HarrisburgU.edu or visit: HarrisburgU.edu/Summercamps on a regular • Exploring Entrepreneurship basis to check out camps being planned! • The Science and Technology of Transportation Apply Now! I Contact Patrick Young,

326 Market Street Harrisburg, PA 17101 • 717.901.5101 • CONNECT@HarrisburgU.edu • www.HarrisburgU.edu

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 Since our start in 2008, Expert Online Training has grown from 12 videos and 70 subscribers to more than 100 professionally hosted modules and 2500+ subscribers worldwide.  We’ve trained more than 200,000 staff at the finest camps, parks & rec departments and summer schools. Have we trained yours? All of our content has been vetted by the ACA’s Educational Endorsement Program.  To experience for yourself why we have become the world leader in online education for youth leaders, call us for a live demo (877) 237-3931 or visit our new website: ExpertOnlineTraining.com.

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What is the power of camp? Since 1919, Camp Winnebago, for boys, has fostered an environment that is based on effort not achievement, on learning not results and ultimately creating a unique emotional experience and building a community that focuses on each camper while appreciating their unique qualities. In fact, the adage â&#x20AC;&#x153;Winnebago is not only for the boy who can but especially for the boy who willâ&#x20AC;? is the philosophy that overlays all that we do at Winnebago.

While Winnebago is beautiful; it sits on 400 acres of beautiful pine forest that includes 2 miles of lake and is comprised of beautifully groomed fields, tennis and basketball courts and a 12,000 square foot indoor field house, the physical plant is mere window dressing to the core elements of what makes Winnebago special.

We see child development through a prism of four basic tenets; emotional and physical safety, friendship, learning and role modeling. Our belief is if a camper feels Today, children and families are under safe he will feel more willing to try and will increasing pressures to succeed; whether generally push his envelope and whether in the classroom, on the athletic fields, or succeed or fail, will do so knowing the result related to financial security, we are being is acceptable and grow the propensity to try asked to excel at extraordinary rates in a again. If a child enters an activity and feels a race to succeed. What is this race doing to modicum of challenge yet not overwhelmed us and our children? The evidence is rather while being motivated to put forth effort persuasive that while we are helping our to learn, the odds are that the result will children become better test takers and more be positive and that with learning and skill career focused, we are probably not helping acquisition, there will be a desire to continue them be stronger more resilient, tenacious, to improve. There is nothing that feeds a and well-adjusted people. boys desire to continue than the feeling of real success. It canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be faked! 34

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Friendship is a also core driver of child development at camp. Deep and meaningful relationships are forged through shared experiences and true understanding. We don’t pretend that friends don’t experience difficult episodes. Rather, when such times arise, the staff help facilitate real and meaningful dialogue that allows the boys to resolve issues and learn communication skills that they can use forever in managing positive relationships. Such understanding coupled with respect and true caring gives boys the opportunity to enjoy friendships that they view as special and not replicable in other realms of their lives. Finally, the 60 role models that comprise the staff is a touch of magic. Witnessing 60 adults all working off the same basic page is a powerful developmental engine. Campers are shown repeatedly that the adults that comprise the staff listen to them, want to help them succeed and care for them. The strength of such a focused and thoughtful group of role models can’t be overestimated. Boys leave camp embodying the values that the staff shows by example; respect, thoughtfulness, caring and helpfulness.

The basic tenets of what we deem important at Winnebago are seemingly fairly universal and can be instituted at any youth development program in the world allowing for local cultural differences. Why then is it relatively hard to find programs that are successfully implementing such basic programmatic tenets? Similar to the field of development world and parenting, in order to change people’s habits in fundamental ways, it takes long term and consistent attention to the basics. At Winnebago, we have enjoyed remarkable consistency in having 4 Directors and 6 Head Counselors in 95 years. With such a remarkable run, values are inculcated and repeated and staff, campers and parents enjoy a consistent philosophy that gives campers an experience dedicated to their development while affording them opportunities to experience activities and meet people they probably would not enjoy otherwise.

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Not long ago, almost 90% of American families required their children to help plant and harvest on the family farm. The shortened school year was dictated by the reliance of the family on child labor. Present day America has nicely changed, as summer education programs now play a major role in filling in the gaps left behind in earlier American history. More and more, families are acknowledging the need and taking advantage of the opportunity to extend their children’s learning by sending them to fun, stimulating, pre-college summer educational programs. The benefits of pre-college summer programs are undeniable. In addition to holding onto cognitive gains made during the school year and along with the many skills young adults acquire in summer education programs, is an explicit awareness of their independence. Not only do student’s return home capable of getting themselves up in the morning, deciding when to go to sleep and doing their own laundry, they are capable of making decisions and commitments to future plans. Research has uncovered many factors that may mediate a smooth transition into the freshmen year of college. Two factors, awareness of independence and motivation, are salient.

The pre-college programs offered by Summer Study Programs (SSP) at Penn State University, The University of Colorado Boulder, Fordham University (NYC), and The Sorbonne in Paris enable students to experience that additional level of independence in a safe and exciting summertime environment. Each year, SSP welcomes students from more than 40 US states and 25 foreign countries. Unlike traditional summer camps, most students come alone making everyone eager to make new friends and able to “conquer” a pre-college program on their own.

The most effective pre-college summer programs are those which combine work High school students in pre-college and play. Students who participate in summer programs are given the freedom a Summer Study Program are able to to explore their interests and learn about choose from challenging college credit their unique style of coping with issues courses, high-interest and low pressure that may arise in college at a later time. non-credit classes, workshops, community Their independence flourishes, and with service and internship opportunities this awareness, young adults are better to fill the academic portion of the day. equipped to tackle the demands of their Outside of class, participants choose from freshmen year of college. Perhaps the a variety afternoon sports, recreational best part of pre-college summer programs and/or cultural activities and engage in is that they offer students a safe and exciting evening activities, weekend trips supervised environment in which they may and excursions. Living in buildings that explore their interests and expand their are generally exclusive to the program, horizons. students safely mingle with others in a controlled and supervised environment. In addition to our full-time program directors with a combined 100+ years of experience, Summer Study Programs employs well-trained, seasoned staff and professionals that understand the challenges teenagers face and the nuances of community living on a college campus. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2 36 Learn more today by visiting www.SummerStudy.com

EXCITING HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS AT: PENN STATE UNIVERSITY • 2 - 6 ½ -week Enrichment & College Credit Programs • The Excitement of a “Big Ten” Campus • Unparalleled Sports & Recreational Facilities + Sports Clinics • Dance, Theatre, Acapella Singing & Rock Band Workshops • The Ultimate College Town • College & University Weekend Trips

THE UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER • 2, 3, and 5-week Enrichment & College Credit Programs • Spectacular Rocky Mountain Campus • Instructional Sports Clinics, Including Yoga & Rock Climbing • Hiking, Biking, Horseback Riding & Whitewater Rafting • Weekend Trips to Breckenridge, Vail, Colorado Springs, Pike’s Peak, Rocky Mountain National Park...

FORDHAM UNIVERSITY (NEW YORK CITY) • 3 ½ -week Enrichment Program • #1 Most Visited City in America • Exciting Sights & Sounds of NYC • Brand New, Air-Conditioned Residence • Entertainment & Cultural Capital of the World • NON-RESIDENTIAL Programs Available

THE SORBONNE (PARIS)

• 3 and 5-week Programs • French Language Taught At All Levels • French Immersion Opportunities • All-Suites, Air-Conditioned Hotel • Dine-A-Round Dining • Experienced Bilingual Staff • Sights & Sounds of “The City of Lights” • Weekend Trips to Loire Valley, Disneyland Paris, Palace of Versailles, Chateau Country... Our Programs Offer: • College Credit & Non-Credit Enrichment Classes • Princeton Review SAT Prep Courses • Day & Night Activities

SPEAK WITH A PROGRAM DIRECTOR TODAY: (800) 666-2556 OR view/request our brochures online: www.SummerStudy.com

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C.A.T.S. Summer Camps 10

Reasons Performing Arts Programs are a Good Investment in Your Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Future

Every day to make an investment in our childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future. We try to provide a good education, instill healthy habits and involve them in numerous extra-curricular activities to help them become a well-rounded person. Did you know that there is no better activity that can help to make a well-rounded child than the performing arts? Below are 10 reasons why enrolling your child in a performing arts program is one of the best investments you will make in their future.

Provides a Positive Impact on Academics : Participating in performing

arts positively impacts academics, especially in the areas of reading, comprehension and language arts. Dramatic arts introduces a new vocabulary while allowing participants to act out the written word furthering their comprehension skills and motivation for learning.

Builds Confidence : Skills developed

through performance gives children

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practice stepping out of their comfort zone, allowing them to make mistakes and learn from them in the rehearsal process. This helps build confidence on stage, in the classroom and other areas of life.

3 Enhances Communication Skills :

In acting, singing and dancing youth are encouraged to express themselves through the spoken word, facial expressions and body language. These skills help them learn to be good communicators both on and off the stage.

Teaches Focus and Perseverance

: Practice, focus and determination are

learned in the arts by working together and individually to perfect a dance, song or a certain line of a play correctly. The cast of a play must learn perseverance to have a show ready for opening night.

responsibility for it. Mistakes are a regular part of the process of learning in the arts and children begin to see that mistakes happen and that they must acknowledge them, learn from them and move on.

8 Develops Creativity : Making creative

choices, thinking of new ideas, looking at things in a new way is all a part of the dramatic arts process. Being able to think 5 Keeps Kids Engaged and Motivated on your feet, and think ‘outside of the box’ : When an actor is expected to learn a part will take your child far in life. By practicing for a production the process doesn’t end in creative thinking and actions, it begins to the classroom. Learning the part keeps them come naturally to them now and in their engaged and motivated at home as they future. work to perfect it.

6 Teaches Problem Solving : What would my character do in this circumstance? What emotions are appropriate for my character? Children are constantly problem solving in performing arts without even knowing it! Problem solving helps to develop understanding and reasoning skills that are important for any successful career.

Fosters Trust and Accountability :

Social interaction, taking risks on how you portray a character and trusting other actors to deliver their lines correctly helps to develop trust in the process as well as self and others. When working on a team project, children learn that when they are not prepared or on-time, that other people suffer. They also learn that it is important to admit that you made a mistake and take

9 Keeps Kids Moving : Performing arts

activities not only incorporate a child’s mind but helps to keep them physically fit. Whether it’s singing, dancing or acting (or all three which makes them a triple threat in the theatre world!), they are continuously moving, working muscles and being active. This type of activity is also known to help decrease anxiety and depression.

10 Promotes Teamwork and Lasting Memories : Performing on stage with

a group of people all striving to perform a show creates a bond, if only for a few days or weeks when they are united for the purpose of a performance project. Youth who may not normally interact with each other become a team working together with a common goal creating memories that will last a lifetime.

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C.A.T.S Summer Camps

There are many benefits to participation in the arts for children. A 2006 study conducted by the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies found that students who participate in arts learning exposure often improve their achievement in other areas of learning. tests than students with lower levels or no arts involvement.

Performing arts programs, much like sports programs, are not for everyone. We owe it to our children to allow them to try a variety of activities to find what is best for them. Why not try a program that has the most long-lasting benefits to help your child academically, socially and personally well into their adult lives â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of the best investments you will make.

C.A.T.S. (Creative Acting Theater School) Summer Camps has

been offering exciting enrichment and performing arts camps

for over 18 years in southern California and will bring them to Austin, Texas this year! For more information:

visit: www.catssummercamps.com

email : info@catssummercamps.com

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HUNTSVILLE, AL

inspired “ dream first astronaut Mars” Space Camp my

of being the

Alyssa

12 TIME CAMP ALUMNA

Read about Alyssa’s journey at spacecamp.com/alumnioftheweek

www.CampNavigator.com Vol. AL 3, Issue 2 1 Tranquility Base, Huntsville, • spacecamp.com 42

SpaceCampUSA

Helping Your Child Through Pre-Camp Anxiety With the start of this camp season approaching I know that many first-time campers (and parents) are feeling some anxiety. This is perfectly natural. For many children this will be their first significant time away from home. As they prepare for their summer adventure they are just beginning to grasp the differences between life at home, and life at overnight camp. Even if they had a chance to visit their new camp while it was in session last year, it can still seem like a far-off and mysterious place. One of these campers may be yours. You may even start to hear language such as “I just won’t go” and “you can’t make me!” These statements can terrify parents, and rightly so! The impulse is to call your camp’s office and cancel for this summer. But in these situations our children are almost always using coded language that masks what they are really thinking. In our experience, what they are most often trying to say to their parents is “I’m scared. This overnight camp experience is outside of my comfort zone. I’m afraid that I might fail at this. Can you be a resource for me?” This is an important moment in your relationship with your child. Do you alleviate their momentary emotional discomfort by cancelling their camp experience, or do you view this challenging situation as an

opportunity to teach them that they can overcome moments of fear and self-doubt? Think about what could be achieved by helping your child navigate through this challenge. Could this episode of anxiety lead to a powerful, positive life-changing experience? It could, but it requires you to parent your child. I’m a parent of a 5 and 7 year old. My goal is to raise them to be strong, self-sufficient young adults. It’s likely one of the goals you have for your own children. After 15 years of being a camp professional, and helping 100’s of anxious families prepare for their first summer at camp, I’ve learned something powerful: In order to raise resilient adults, as their parent I have to give them the tools to work through their struggles. By removing the obstacles that get in their way I am only temporarily alleviating their pain, and sadly teaching them that they aren’t strong enough to work through their problems. As you set out to help your child through this tough time I offer to you some of the tools that we have found to be most effective tools at combatting pre-camp anxiety.

How About Tomorrow? – Experience has shown us that most of these conversations are initiated at bedtime. While this is a great time to bond with your son or daughter, it may also be a difficult time to have such an important talk. He or she may also be overtired when this conversation begins, which can heighten everyone’s emotions even further. Acknowledge what your child is expressing to you, but ask if you can revisit this topic during the daytime. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Avoid Circular Conversations – It is unlikely that you will be able to win an argument that begins with “you can’t make me go!” So try and avoid this all together. Instead, try something like “I can see that you are emotional about this topic, and I understand that. How about we just put this conversation aside until we both feel calmer?” And then find a time to resume the dialogue when everyone has calmed a bit.

Refresh Their Memories – Months or weeks after signing up for camp, it can be hard for some campers to remember why they liked the idea of overnight camp in the first place! Ask them what they remember about the camp. Encourage them to reconnect with the reasons that they got excited about this adventure in the first place. The act of processing these memories can be a powerfully positive reminder. You can even try visiting the camp’s website or reviewing the marketing materials you initially received.

Share Some Confidence – Communicate to them that you believe that they have the skills to be successful at camp (even if you aren’t 100% sure!). Hearing this from a parent can have a major impact on a child’s willingness to take healthy risks. This reassurance may be enough to reshape your child’s thoughts about camp. You are their role model, and knowing that you believe in them could be a powerful (and lasting) motivator.

Share an Experience – Find a more fun, relaxing time to discuss his/her concerns about camp, and do something together. Play a game just the two of you. Work on a fun art project. Go for a bike ride or out for an ice cream. Resolve not to answer your Iphone the whole time. Spend the first half hour just being together. Children are much more open to challenging conversations when they feel like the adult is focused on them in a positive, fun way! 44

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Share Your Experiences – If you can, share with your child a story or two about a time in your life when you were anxious about doing something new. Tell them about how you tried something and overcame that fear. If possible, share an anecdote about a time when you backed away from a new experience, and ultimately regretted it. As the most important role model in your child’s life, they are looking to you for reassurance that their feelings are normal, but are also looking for guidance on how to appropriately handle these feelings.

Expect This Again – It is unlikely that a single conversation will neutralize these anxieties completely. It will probably make things better for a time, and then your child will want to revisit this discussion. That’s to be expected. But with each round this conversation should get easier, and the frequency of these talks should diminish.

Reach Out – Camps want to partner with parents. It ultimately makes our jobs easier. Most camp professionals have years of experience helping children and families work through these kind of challenges. We have tools and ideas with which you may not be familiar. Many camps are available to you and your child for phone calls, emails, skype chats and more. Some, like mine, even have the resources to arrange in-house visits to help you through these tough times.

We know how much you love your child, and how committed you are to providing them with the most developmentally appropriate experiences possible. By helping your child face this anxiety you will be giving them a gift that is even greater than a summer at Camp. You will be helping them develop into a more confident, resilient person. So let your camp know what your child is experiencing during the early stages of his or her anxiety, rather than when you have reached your breaking point! Calling out of the blue to say “I’m cancelling” simply isn’t fair, and in the long run it won’t be healthy for the growth and emotional development of your child. Jason Sebell is a director at Camps Kenwood & Evergreen, a brothersister overnight camp in Wilmot, NH.

Virtual Tour Link http://tours.829llc.com/kenwoodevergreen/ www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Skills For Life Kenwood & Evergreen is more than just a traditional overnight summer camp in New Hampshire. It’s true – we play team sports, teach arts, swimming, waterskiing and rock climbing, have incredible adventures, and explore the natural world around us. But the learning that takes place at Kenwood & Evergreen in NH is so much more than that. Our campers strengthen their social skills and become more independent with the help of their counselors and coaches, who are great role models and mentors. We strive to find every moment in each day for our children to exceed their own expectations and believe in themselves in a way that they might never have thought possible. In every activity and program we teach the skills that will be vital to every child’s success in the 21st century.

Imagine a place… Where children are a part of an extraordinary summer camp community That prepares today’s children for tomorrow’s worldco-ed summer camp That teaches 21st Century Skills That is a perfect compliment to your child’s school year learning Where children build self-esteem by acquiring new skills and watching themselves improve through each day of the summer Where children strengthen their social skills, becoming more resilient and independent Within a magnificent camp setting, 180 acres surrounded by 100 ft pine trees and a glistening private lake co-ed summer camp Directed by a team of child development professionals with over 200 years experience in summer camps With an unmatched group of caring, highly-trained, professional counselors, coaches and teachers Dedicated to providing you with the personal customer service that your family deserves Where children count the days until camp, summer after summer, year after year

New relationships will turn into lifelong friendships; new experiences will build lasting confidence and resilience. Stories and traditions, sports and arts, laughter and excitement, music and cheers…This is Camp… This is Camps Kenwood & Evergreen in NH

Our Community Our community is based on one basic idea: to create the most developmentally impactful overnight camp experience for children. This shapes everything that we do, and it is how we produce such powerful outcomes.

Camps Kenwood & Evergreen is a caring community where children make friends, learn, grow and are inspired to be the best people they can be.

Camps Kenwood & Evergreen for Boys and Girls 114 Eagle Pond Road, Wilmot, NH 03287

781-793-0091 www.kenwood-evergreen.com | Jason@kenwood-evergreen.com 46

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Choosing an Adventure Camp: Key Questions to Ask Summer Camps that offer adventure activities can be a great experience for campers of all ages. Adventure-based camps typically offer activities such as rock climbing, ropes course, white water rafting, and other exciting outdoor experiences. A top quality adventure camp will provide opportunities for campers to build selfconfidence, connect with the natural environment, and strengthen friendships with peers. Along with these great opportunities, there are many things to consider when choosing an adventure camp. Parents often wonder about the risk involved in these unique activities, and how to know if

a camp will appropriately manage this risk to provide a safe, positive experience for their child. Below are several key questions parents can ask when considering if an adventure camp is a good fit for their family. A good camp will be happy to answer these questions for you, and will understand the responsibility of caring for the safety and well-being of your child. It is not overprotective or unreasonable to do proper research before selecting a camp. If a camp staff member makes you feel like you are taking too much of their time to answer these questions, this might not be the right camp for you!

1. Is your camp accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA)? The American Camp Association is a nationally recognized agency that provides accreditation for camps throughout the U.S. With an ACA accredited camp, you know that the campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policies and procedures will be reviewed by the ACA to assure that they meet acceptable standards for the camp industry. Special ACA standards apply specifically to adventure-based camps and activities. 2. What are the qualifications for your employees? The camp Instructors or Counselors are the ones that will have the most impact on your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s overall experience. When choosing an adventure camp, it is helpful to compare important factors such as minimum age, hiring requirements, medical certifications, level of education, and minimum experience. Due to the nature of the activities offered by adventure camps, many will choose to have a minimum age of 18 for their staff. If the camp offers a Counselor-In-Training program, how many Instructors over the age of 18 will be present during activities? While many camps have a minimum requirement of first aid and CPR, most adventure camps will require their staff to hold a Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder Certification. As with any service that provides supervision for youth, pre-employment criminal background checks and pre-employment drug screens are usually required as part of the hiring process. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

3. What is the ratio of campers to Instructors/Counselors? The ACA recommends a ratio of 1 staff member per 8 campers. For adventure activities, certain camps will choose to have ratios of 1:7 or even 1:6 to ensure proper safety and supervision. 4. How do staff members communicate? What is your emergency response plan? An ACA accredited camp will have these policies and procedures reviewed periodically by the ACA to make sure they are up to standard, but it never hurts to make sure the camp has a plan in place for unexpected events. For safety purposes, camps should have a communication plan that involves two-way radios or mobile phones, so Instructors can notify emergency services and camp administrators right away in the event of an emergency. 5. What if my child is afraid to try a certain activity? A high quality adventure camp will follow a philosophy that allows campers to choose their own level of challenge throughout the camp. Of course you will want to be sure that your child will not be pressured into trying an activity that he or she is not comfortable with, but beyond this a quality camp will offer alternative ways for campers to participate in a way that they are comfortable with - as opposed to sitting out for the duration of the activity. For example, campers that are afraid of heights may participate in the rock climbing activity by climbing only to a point that they feel challenged, but not so afraid that the experience is unpleasant or traumatic. Experienced Instructors will be creative enough to make sure that every camper has a way to be included and involved. 6. How does your camp respond if a child becomes homesick? This is a commonly asked question here at Adventure Links, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m often surprised to hear that many camps will not allow a child to call home if they are feeling homesick. While it may be true for some campers that a call home can lead to a request for early pick-up, you as a parent will know what is best for your child in this situation. For some campers, a call home is the best way for the camper to overcome homesickness and have the best experience possible. Make sure you find a camp that handles homesickness in a way that you are comfortable with.

These basic questions can tell you a lot about an adventure camp and if it is a good fit for your child. After learning the basics about the camp, you may also ask more specific questions about things like daily routines, pickup and drop off procedures, meals and snacks, and even camp traditions. You can start by asking these questions over the phone, or even request to take a tour of the camp to speak with a staff member in person. Happy Trails! By Mark Diedering

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IncrediF lix guide for choosing the right filmmaking ca mp for your child IncrediFlix camps are hands on movie making from beginning to end. Kids learn brainstorming, story structure, storyboarding, create characters, create backgrounds, location scout, act, film, do voice over’s, and learn filmmaking strategies in our camps. And the process is so much fun, that kids don’t even know they’re learning at every step! Every year we get calls from parents wondering which camp would be best for their child, so we’ve made this small guide to help parents choose which type of filmmaking camp would be best, so this summer your child can join IncrediFlix and make movies instead of watching them!

Interest Of course this should be the first consideration. What aspect of moviemaking is your child interested in? If directing, then Filmmaking Flix. If animation, then any one of our stop-motion animation camps. If special effects, then Green Screen Flix or Imagination Flix. If acting, then Acting Flix. Interest would be the greatest predictor of having a great time in any one of our camps.

Attention span Does your child have patience? They’d probably thrive at being able to make a live action movie, where it’s not constant activities throughout the camp (no child can be in every scene), but the end result is something that the kids (and parents) can cherish forever.

Energetic Does your child love being on the go? Then they would probably do great in any of our stop-motion animation camps. There’s always an activity to keep them busy.

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Shy Is your child shy, but trying to break out of his or her shell? Then Filmmaking Flix is an easy way to open up in front of others. We don’t emphasize the acting (but focus on all aspects of filmmaking), so it’s a no stress zone. If they’re shy and not yet ready to break out, in the stop motion animation camps kids work in small groups of 4, and never have to be in front of the camera.

Gregarious Your child would probably love being in front of the camera, especially our Acting for Flix camp.

Computer Oriented We have two new camps in Southern California this year for you. Computer Animation Flix and Editing Flix, where the kids will use Mac’s for their creations.

M any loc at ions t hroughou t t he Bay Ar e a

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Events Calendar SUNDAY

May 2014 Events YMCA St. Louis Open House 1:00pm – 4:00pm

SATURDAY

4 PNC Achievement Center For Education & Interpretation Science Camps 1:00pm – 4:00pm

Camp Wood Brooke Open House 00:00 - 00:00

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Camp Sealth & Camp Niwana Special Family Weekend

MONDAY

Camp Sealth & Camp Niwana Special Family Weekend

SUNDAY

18 SATURDAY

SUNDAY

SATURDAY

Camp Sealth & Camp Niwana Special Family Weekend

©UC Regents

Preparing students for the next America has become a theme of educators throughout the country. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) has become our national cry and schools are scrambling to find teachers and curriculum to adequately teach the subjects. Many of us, however, understand that what’s missing is the “A.” Without the “A” there’s no STEAM to drive the engine. Without the “A” there’s no creativity to discover the next big thing. We know from educational experience that the arts boost literacy impelling students to become better readers and communicators. It advances math skills and achievement and that arts students out perform their non-arts peers. The arts motivate students to learn

and become more engaged in the classroom with better attendance rates. It is undeniable that the arts develop critical thinking skills, helping students discern information and become better ready for college. Statistics show that the arts improve school culture and help to achieve a decline in peer bullying. What parents want for their children is happiness and SUCCESS. The arts are proven to bring SUCCESS in school, SUCCESS in work and SUCCESS in life. No one can deny the joy that comes from expressing creativity whether it is performing on stage or creating something behind the scenes. No one can deny the happiness that comes from collaborating with a team of other artists to present something astounding for others to enjoy.

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Research shows undeniably that engagement in the arts develops discipline and self-esteem. Life is about dreams and the fulfillment of those dreams is reachable with discipline, hard work, and belief in one’s self. Those who really succeed are those who learn to believe in themselves and don’t give up. That’s discipline. Sometimes the dream is modified. Sometimes the dreamer needs to have a bigger vision. Mostly the dreamer needs someone who inspires and motivates them. They also need someone to guide them. US PERFORMING ARTS, the leader in visual and performing arts education, has been giving students the opportunity to improve their craft, learn new skills, have FUN, and jump to the next level of ability. With programs in digital filmmaking, creative writing, and every area of the performing arts nation-wide they have a program that is sure to be just the right program for

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every young artist. Catering to students from 11 to 18 years old, from beginners to the very advanced, US Performing Arts has been preparing students for college and professional life for over 14 years. Their faculty is incredibly inspiring and motivational but most important they know how to guide and train the dream and create success in school, success in work, and success in life. US Performing Arts’ training underpins and nourishes the dream and encourages success. US Performing Arts Camps is considered the premier top tier summer program for training young people in the arts. Our programs are taught by the university or college departments and their professional faculty and guest professionals in their field of expertise. We also offer programs and locations where we have partnered with top notch professional program directors.

US Performing Arts Camps are designed as conservatory style programs that encourage students to work collaboratively in achieving high goals. Some programs are one week long, others are two weeks duration and we have a three week Musical Theater Conservatory program at UCLA. Many students spend a summer attending more than one program and visit more than one campus where US Performing Arts Camps are offered. For the colleges and universities who run the programs they have become recruiting tools that help them select top talented young people they would like to invite to attend their school. For the student, the programs are an opportunity to experience a college campus, grow and develop as a person, and improve their skill level in the arts while making friends and having a lot of fun.

For a quick way to identify your child’s passion, go to the Program list at www.usperformingarts. com to look at all the various programs we offer in the related disciplines of Film, Television, Theater, Musical, Theater, Dance, and Digital Media. You will find every camp offered and the location. Our friendly office staff is available to assist in selecting the right summer program for your child’s talent and passion... one that will be sure to improve on that talent and create a summer of fun to remember for a life time.

By: Judith Patterson,

CEO US Performing Arts

©UC Regents www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

MT. HOOD KIWANIS CAMP has a proud history of bringing

quality outdoor adventures to nearly 16,000 children and adults who, despite cognitive, developmental or physical disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Cerebral Palsy, can enjoy recreational activities adapted to their special needs—adventure courses, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, cookouts, arts and crafts, swimming, dances and river rafting. Our programs annually serve more than 500 campers ages 10 – 55+ who join us each season. While the majority of our campers come from Oregon, we also serve campers from Washington, Idaho, Hawaii and Alaska. We support our campers through specialized adaptations ranging from incorporating systems that compensate for limited limb strength to offering communication devices to support those with speech challenges. We offer award-winning unique and innovative opportunities not available elsewhere in the community. For example, we have an adventure course with multiple elements including a zip line, rock climbing wall, and team-building exercise where campers are lifted through an intricate web of roping to allow them to swing from 30 feet up. Successful completion of the adventure course provides an overwhelming sense of accomplishment for campers and rare youth leadership opportunities. Our campers experience freedom; they soar, or as camper Renae told us “At camp, I can fly”.

ACA ACCREDITATION

Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp’s summer programs have been accreditated for MANY years by the American Camp Association. We were most recently reaccredited after a thorough review process that took place during summer camp 2013. This accreditation assures our camper families that MHKC’s practices have been measured against national and industry best standards. 56

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1933

510

YEAR FOUNDED

CAMPERS SERVED

ACRES

Began serving people with disabilities 1957

During the summer of 2013

of U.S. Forest Service land in Mt. Hood National Forest

248

5443

VOLUNTEER COUNSELORS Providing a 1:1 camper-to-counselor ratio

VOLUNTEER HOURS

PROFESSIONAL STAFF Special educators, health & human service professionals

We couldn’t do it without them

To learn more, volunteer, or help support Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp, visit: www.mhkc.org or call 503.452.7416. Facebook.com/MHKCamp

At camp, I can ﬂy... There are few places where children and adults with disabilities can spend an entire week focusing on their abilities, rather than their disabilities. Each summer, Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp offers eight, one-week sessions to more than 500 campers ages 10 to 55+. MHKC hosts several camp programs for varying abilities: MAIN CAMP: Campers sleep, eat, and spend their time at camp doing activities at our main camp site. They are assigned to a group by gender and sleep in a cabin. Groups take one trip off-site a week to go canoeing at Trillium Lake. Main camp is able to accommodate individuals with personal care, behavioral, or medical needs. Camper to counselor ratio – 1:1. TRIP & TRAVEL: Campers sleep, eat, and spend a majority of their time doing activities at our main camp site. Groups take two additional trips off-site during the week to white water raft and do summer-time activities at Mt. Hood Ski Bowl. Housed in a cabin. Camper to counselor ratio – 2:1. TENT & TRAVEL: Campers sleep, eat, and spend a majority of their time doing activities at our main camp site. Groups take two additional trips off-site during the week to white water raft and do summer-time activities at Mt. Hood Ski Bowl. Housed in platform tents. Camper to counselor ratio – 2:1. Co-ed. CANOE CAMP: Campers sleep, eat, and spend a majority of their activity time out at Trillium Lake canoeing and hiking. They sleep in tents and spend meals and evenings around their campfire. They assist in making their own meals as well. Campers come to main camp to participate in some of our camp activities such as horseback riding and adventure course. This program is geared more towards those individuals who want a greater level of independence at camp but who want to have a slower pace than our Off-Site programs. Camper to counselor ratio – 2:1. Co-ed. For campers ages 15+. MAIN CAMP 6 days, 5 nights Weekly 6/22-8/15

TENT AND TRAVEL* 6 days, 5 nights

TRIP AND TRAVEL* 6 days, 5 nights

CANOE PROGRAM* 6 days, 5 nights

Weekly 6/22-8/15

Weekly 7/20-8/15

Ages 10+

Ages 15+

Sleep in Cabins

Sleep in Platform Tents

Sleep in Cabins

Sleep in Camping Tents

2:1 ratio

1:1 camper to counselor ratio

“For some children, riding a horse or climbing a rock wall is a lot of fun. For kids like my son, they are life changing experiences.”

Pre-Approval Required!

To learn more, register, volunteer, or help support Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp, visit: www.mhkc.org or call 503.452.7416.

Facebook.com/MHKCamp

HOST A RETREAT WHILE SUPPORTING A MISSION During the oﬀ season months, we open our historic facili�es to rental groups and share Mt. Hood Kiwanis Camp. Our retreat and conference rental season begins at the end of August and runs through mid-June. Our rus�c camp se�ng is located about �y miles east of Portland, in the Mt. Hood Na�onal Forest. MHKC is just minutes from the ski slopes of Government camp, and is a perfect place to hold a retreat for a small and large groups. Within the 22 acres of camp, you can nd old growth trees, the raging Li�le Zig Zag River, an outside stage surrounded by benches, both high and low ropes adventure course elements for team building, and plenty of porches and outdoors to enjoy. The on-site chef is available to provide typical camp fare, or create a custom special event menu. To inquire about hos�ng a retreat at MHKC, please call 503.452.7416 or email rentals@mhkc.org. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

With all of the daily pressures on kids today of excelling in the classroom, specializing in a sport on the playing field, landing a spot in a top fine arts program, owning the latest technological gadget, or just plain “fitting in” with their peers; why not send your kids to a traditional summer camp full of wholesome outdoor fun where they can just relax and be KIDS?! Parents want the best for their kids and tend to push them to achieve lofty goals. Expectations are high. But what is one of the best ways to help them learn important life lessons? Aspire to be a class president or a confident club leader? Get into college? Be a good friend or roommate? Learn social skills and network with peers? Cooperate and be a good team player? Eventually get a good job? SEND THEM TO CAMP!

to, the friends they have to act a certain way around; and just be able to run barefoot through the green grass on Chatuga’s football size open field or swim in the lake while being surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains! They point out their hopes that their kids will make new friends, gain a sense of mature independence and self confidence, and also make some lifelong memories.

In recent years, kids have come from 25 different states to enjoy Chatuga’s safe, relaxed, family oriented environment that helps them become more responsible, learn better social skills, and develop a greater love for the outdoors . They become more comfortable accepting differences in people through the cultural diversity of having international counselors, respect the talents and gifts of others as they participate in or watch the The parents who send their children to Camp Talent Show, get better at a sport Camp Chatuga have all these things in mind they’ve never tried before, or work toward and more! Let’s not get too serious, though. common goals in teamwork competitions They make it crystal clear to us that their such as Chatuga’s Icky Olympics or the top priority in sending their child to camp Chatugathon. is for them to HAVE FUN! They want them After working as summer counselors at to get away from the stresses of life, the a boys’ camp in North Carolina, former technology they are constantly connected Furman University roommates and 58

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basketball teammates Nield Gordon and Everette Pigg envisioned their own boys’ camp in 1956. The coaches and their wives bought farm property in picturesque Mountain Rest, SC, now 60 acres completely surrounded by Sumter National Forest, and Camp Chatuga was established. Girls were added in 1979, and Camp Chatuga has been operated for the last 20 years by Coach Gordon’s daughters, Lucy Gordon Barnett and Angela Gordon Sullivan (and the late Kelly Gordon Moxley), and son-in-law Rick Moxley. With degrees in education and engineering, having over 100 years combined camp experience, growing up at camp, and being parents themselves who make sure their kids go to various camps; the directors of Camp Chatuga are highly qualified to oversee the ultimate traditional camp experience for your child. Camp Chatuga is the only private, independent resident camp in South Carolina, and is a traditional summer camp for boys and girls ages 6 to 16 whose mission includes growing campers and staff spiritually through relationships and nature. Chatuga was named for, though spelled differently from, the nearby Chattooga River and the Chattooga Ridge on which the camp is located. Chatuga’s summer schedule consists of 1, 2, 3 and 4-week sessions plus a 3-day MiniCamp and the cost ranges from $375 to $3195. Over 30 daily activities are offered including horseback, water skiing, mountain biking, crafts, drama, archery, riflery and many different sports. Depending on the

camper’s number of years at Chatuga and their session choice, exciting day trips are offered that include rafting Section 3 or 4 of the Chattooga River, taking a canopy zip line tour, visiting a water park, or showing one’s speed and skills at an all-camp roller skating party. Safety and personal attention are of utmost importance to the staff at Chatuga. A 4 to 1 camper to counselor ratio is always adhered to. Counselors must be 19 (or have had one year of college) and are required to go through a background check. Camper checkoffs occur throughout the day, and only one road leads into and out of the camp property which is monitored by a gatekeeper. A physician or nurse is always onsite during camp sessions and the closest hospital is 25 minutes away. Chatuga places a strong emphasis on community by connecting campers through small groups and promoting interaction with all ages male and female. Free time is built in just to hang out with new friends. The beautiful setting that includes a private lake has great spots for relaxing on our big hill, sitting on a bench, sharing a swing or hoisting yourself up into a terrific climbing tree. Come see all of this for yourself during our Open House on April 6th! Counselors will be available to give tours and s’mores will be served. For over 50 years Camp Chatuga has been making a positive difference in the lives of thousands of children. Our campers keep coming back year after year, and many become counselors. We’re a special part of their lives. Give Chatuga a chance to give your child their

BEST SUMMER EVER! www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Summer is knocking at the door. Before you know it the school bell will ring this year’s final bell, the heat will roll in and the kids will be out on break. How do you plan to entertain the youth in your life? The City of Chandler offers dozens of options to not only engage and entertain, but also educate young minds throughout summer, fall, winter and spring break. Our most popular summer boredom busters are our Youth Summer Camps for children ages 5-12. During the camps, children engage in several activities including: sports, games, arts and crafts, cooking, youth development activities and special events. One of the best parts about the City’s camps is that they are offered in full day and half day, morning or afternoon, options. The City is also cognizant of working parents, with camp drop off beginning as early as 7 a.m. Our youth camps are a drop-in program and campers can come and go of their own volition. If camp does not quite fit the bill for your summer planning, the Recreation Division also offers a large gambit of classes for youth. Classes range from LEGO® engineering, cooking, dancing and even music lessons. The length and duration of each class varies allowing for more variety. Let’s not forget about the teens in town. Instead of spending the summer sitting on the couch or in front of the computer, Teen Adventure Camp promotes a summer filled with activity. Sign up with a friend or come to meet new people. Teen Adventure Camp is a great place to escape the heat, play crazy games, go swimming every week, take field trips every Friday and make lasting memories!

For more information on our camps and classes, please visit our website at

www.chandleraz.gov/recreation If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at 480-782-2727 or email us at

breaktime@chandleraz.gov

This summer discover, imagine and grow with the City of Chandler! www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Mayor Jay Tibshraeny and the Chandler City Council

PLAN YOUR Summer

CHANDLER

RECREATION & AQUATICS! REGISTRATION Opens S AT U R DAY

MAY 3

FOR RESIDENTS !

(Friday, May 9 at 10 a.m. for non-residents.)

Pick up the Break Time magazine at Chandler facilities and register at www.chandleraz.gov/breaktime or call 480-782-2727.

Stay connected with us! Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @ChandlerRec 62

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Find us on Facebook and YouTube Chandler Recreation

Bullying Stops Now! By Martha C. Knight A bully can ruin a kid’s day! Can you change the situation so that the bully no longer bothers you or anyone else? Yes! A bully thinks he is in control of others. He may make threats. He might start a rumor about you or your friend. He might post an untruth about a classmate on the internet. The bully might physically hurt another child or verbally abuse someone. His behavior is bossy and he shows that attitude often. If you are the one being bullied, you should talk to an adult – your mom or dad, your minister, your teacher or your principal, or your counselor. You do not have to continually take the abuse from the bully! If you see someone who is bulling another person, you should also talk to an adult. Seek help for yourself … and for the bully! Equally as important as identifying bullying in the school and community settings is the awareness of sibling bullying within the home. There are great resources for combating bullying: A) The Unites States Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) has a number of helpful ideas for your parents and your educators at stopbullying.gov. There are guides for talking about bullying and for preventing bullying at school and within a community. HHS also has information on cyberbullying – resources for prevention and reporting. Another very important topic covered by HHS deals with suicide prevention if a student is in immediate danger. B) National PTA (PTA) has a program called Connect for Respect. PTA launched this program in March 2011 to provide resources for PTAs “to lead conversations in their school communities about bullying, how it is affecting their communities, and to develop solutions they can implement collaboratively together.” In the section of Resources for PTA leaders, there is an article about profiles in bullying prevention called “Highlights of State and Local PTA Bullying Prevention Programs & Activities.” Parents and school personnel can get ideas for Connect for Respect events. There is also a section entitled Parent Tip Sheets. Included in the tip sheets is “Six Tips to Instill Anti-bullying Behavior in Your Child.” C) TipTxt – Blackboard, Inc. has launched a two-way texting service that permits students to confidentially relay activity about bullying or other factors about school safety to school officials. While National PTA has partnered with Blackboard to encourage students and families to use this service, TipTxt is available for all K-12 schools. Bullying – and bullies – need our attention because 1 in every 7 students will have been bullied or witnessed someone being bullied throughout their K-12 educational experience. We, as adults, can work together with our students to stop bullying now. We can partner with our students to send a message that “if you see bullying, say something” to an adult. Help is available for the bully and for the bully’s victims. We can not be satisfied with silence on this topic. Be a part of the “Bullying Stops Now” effort. A lot of kids will appreciate your support! www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Expeditionary learning is the largest educational reform movement in recent history. In fact, the New York City Department of Education adopted EL to drive 3rd – 8th grade curriculum in a more engaging way or for those in academia - pedagogy. According to the EL Core Practices guide the “EL model challenges students to think critically and take roles in their classrooms and communities, resulting in higher achievement and greater engagement in school.” What does this mean? Specifically, EL is a student lead approach, so rather than students reciting texts and teacher lectures, they use critical thinking and hands on learning to fully engage the mind. Experience becomes the teacher and the classroom teacher becomes more of a guide than the keeper of all knowledge. Experiential learning is the crux of Expeditionary Learning. What does Expeditionary or experiential learning have to do with summer camps? For one, hands-on experiential learning defines most every summer camp activity –art, sport or adventure. The EL activity first, instruction later approach should be commonplace in every successful summer camp. Camper engagement and enjoyment, as well as parent approval is, of course, extremely important to camp counselors, directors and the entire camp organization. To ensure camper enjoyment summer camps should consider EL or experiential practices. EL concisely outlines a framework to achieve active student engagement during the school year. This approach fosters student creativity as well. Students use past knowledge and experience to tackle new problems and topics. Instead of the traditional teachers shows, students copy approach, EL students are given the creative freedom to experiment and engage in critical thinking. Towards the end of class the EL teacher models the correct method, “mopping up” any lingering questions or uncertainty. EL techniques like the abovementioned can be applied to summer camps to increase active learning, teamwork and to highlight daily goals know in EL verbiage as “learning targets”. For the most part talking less and doing more translates to success for all parties involved, summer camps or other. Expeditionary Learning was born from the Outward Bound program, which was founded during WWII by shipping noble Sir Lawrence Holt and progressive German educator Kurt Hahn. With his first school, Hahn “expanded the concept of experiential learning to include real and powerful experience to gain self-esteem, the discovery of innate abilities, and a sense of responsibility toward others.” Outward Bound has since become the premier experiential education program in the world and runs arguably the most rewarding and adventurous camps in the world. Outward Bound is the flagship summer camp. 64

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Character and community development are important design principles of the EL and Outward Bound model. Though not as overt, many summer programs develop character, which allows the camper to “demonstrate self-confidence and self actualization.” Character is rarely developed in a classroom rather it grows from adventure. According to EL Core Practices “adventure can be any physical, artistic or intellectual experience that involves risk, challenge and discovery.” Risk, unknown obstacles and outcomes create opportunities for students/campers to work together to accomplish tasks and overcome challenges. Whether giving a group presentation in front of schoolmates or summiting a mountain on a summer camp expedition, the adventurer accomplishes more than they thought possible. Along the same lines, ‘Success and Failure’ is an EL design principle critical to character growth and confidence. Summer camp activities and challenges present this juxtaposition to campers each day of camp. How often does a camper, new to archery, hit bull’s eye on his or her first attempt? Very rarely, often the novice archer fails to hit anything except, maybe, the ground. Failure should not cripple an individual’s desire to improve; instead it should be a teaching point for the instructor and a learning point for the camper. Hall of Fame basketball coach, John Wooden says, “If you’re not making mistakes, then you’re not doing anything. I’m positive that a doer makes mistakes.” While it’s important for students and campers to build confidence, it’s also important for them to fail and learn from this failure. As University of Kentucky Men’s Basketball Head Coach, John Calipari, says – “it’s not winning and losing, “it’s winning and learning.” Kids should not be afraid to fail. As you can see, there are many similarities between experiential learning, Expeditionary Learning, and the core activities and values of summer camp. Outward Bound is the root of organized and deliberate experiential learning as well as the mother of the educational reform model, Expeditionary Learning. Adventure based, hands-on-learning in an environment that presents some uncertainty and risk creates challenge, discovery and excitement for the individual. Memorable summer camp experiences teach and empower campers, build character and create a greater sense of self. In turn, these camp experiences create powerful, life long memories that are stored deep in the brain. Incredibly, the instruction, lessons and skills learned with these experiences also embed in long-term memory, specifically the hippocampus region of the brain. This scientific fact is why experiential learning and EL are such powerful educational tools; the lessons learned are ingrained in the child, not lost in the short-term memory. Great summer camp experiences have lasting, positive impacts on the campers. The better the instruction, risk mitigation, discovery and adventure, the more positive the camp experience will be for the camper. An added bonus, lasting memories are often accompanied with lasting friendships, since fun, teamwork and overcoming real challenges brings children together. Building self-confidence and character are important at any age, rarely is there a better place for a youngster to do so than at a great summer camp. By Eric Martin

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Spend the summer unplugged at Cochran Mill Nature Center! Located in Palmetto, Georgia, the Center offers three nature camp programs designed to grow with your child. Rising Kindergarteners through 9th graders have the opportunity to spend a week (or more!) learning all about the natural world. Incredible curriculum, dynamic staff and 50 acres of nature to explore provide the perfect summer for your child! Each camp program has a different theme each session. That way, campers enrolled in multiple sessions will have a new and exciting experience each week of the summer. Camp Cricket is the place for your rising Kindergartner or 1st grader. Campers in Camp Cricket are introduced to nature with themes and activities that are just right for their age group. Each week, Crickets hike, canoe, go fishing and have the opportunity to meet wildlife up close. Crickets love getting outside and having hands-on fun! Junior Naturalist Camp is the next big step your camper will take. Open to rising 2nd through 5th graders, Junior Naturalists spend an extended day exploring nature. Wildlife encounters, guest speakers, crafts and challenging activities provide a stimulating environment which will have your camper asking, ‘What’s next?!?!’ Campers who have outgrown Junior Naturalist Summer Day Camp participate in an exciting Adventure Camp program for 6th through 9th graders. Under the guidance of instructors, adventure campers travel and explore the wilderness and areas surrounding Cochran Mill Nature Center. Campers will learn about native Georgia wildlife and forests through personal exploration. The program culminates with a campout at the Nature Center, including a campfire, cookout, and night hike! Give your child the chance to spend the summer the way it was meant to be – naturally! www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

2014 Sessions Camp Cricket

all summer long @ cochran mill nature center!

June 9-13 June 16-20 June 23-27 July 7-11 July 14-18 July 21-25

Camp Cricket

Junior Naturalist June 2-6 June 9-13 June 16-20 June 23-27 July 7-11 July 14-18 July 21-25 July 28-August 1

for rising Kindergarten & 1st graders Monday - Friday, 9am - 1pm $100 per camper *

Junior Naturalist Camp for rising 2nd-5th graders Monday - Friday, 9am - 3pm $150 per camper *

Adventure Camp

Adventure Camp June 2-6

for rising 6th-9th graders Monday - Wednesday, 9am - 3pm Thursday 9am - Friday 12pm $300 per camper *

* Families with annual memberships are eligible for camp discounts! Get one today!

call (770) 306-0914 visit CochranMillNatureCenter.org 68

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What’s better than spending the summer having fun with your friends? That’s exactly what happens in all of our Clubs! At the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix summer camps, we believe in having fun with a purpose, and that’s just what we do, all summer long. Our super-affordable summer camp programs provide kids entering 1st through 12th grade with a full summer of awesome activities and exciting experiences. And, with the help of the USDA Summer Food Service Program, each Club offers free breakfast and lunch! Space is extremely limited, so make sure to sign up early! Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix offers professionally-designed programs that follow our Formula for Impact — a fourpart strategy that is proven to produce results: Fun with a Purpose, Academic Success, Be Good, Do Great, and Healthy Choices! We take having fun with a purpose very seriously! Throughout the summer, our members learn about the benefits of exercise while spending time at the pool; they get lessons on nutrition as they help

out during cooking demonstrations; they avoid summer learning loss by picking out new books, and they learn the value of friendship by developing lifelong bonds with their friends at the Club. Talent shows, fitness challenges and sports competitions all promote working together while developing individual skills, and field trips to exciting and educational spots like the Arizona Science Center, the Children’s Museum of Phoenix and the Challenger Space Center keep kids interested in learning while having a great time. Whether your child is an artist, an athlete, a scholar, or just beginning to find their interests, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix is the place to be! The wide variety of activities, programs, field trips and projects are designed to keep all of our members engaged while expanding their horizons. Summer fun with a purpose is waiting for your child at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Phoenix! Summer sessions will begin May 2014. For schedules and details on program costs and financial assistance, please visit http://www. bgcmp.org to find your nearest Club. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

SUMMER DAY CAMP!

Looking for a fun, educational, and affordable option for your child during the summer? Look no further!

Fun summer activities â&#x20AC;˘ Field trips â&#x20AC;˘ Free breakfast & lunch

Visit BGCMP.ORG for more information

BGCMP does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, genetics, veteran or disability status. Furthermore, BGCMP does not discriminate on the basis of familial status. www.AZRelay.org or 7-1-1 With the help of the USDA Summer Food Service Program, we are able to provide all summer camp participants with a nutritious breakfast and lunch for no additional fee. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

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CAMP IS SOOOOOOO

AMAZING! I want to tell you how AMAZING Lions I went to camp. Everybody is happy and Camp Tatiyee is. Without camp Tatiyee I having a good time. We laugh a lot I can’t wouldn’t be as happy as I am today, even if think of one thing wrong with camp except I am there for only a short time. It means a that my time there is too short. I love lot to me going to camp being with other going so much I always watch the calendar people who are like me and understand counting down the days till I can go back. what I go through every day the troubles and turmoil’s of being a The counselors are so awesome! When I come home paraplegic and knowing that at There is so much love radiating things don’t stress camp I can be my self with out from them. They make sure me out as much. My the worry of being judged. every single person has a really mom always says I’m great time no matter what their more mature after disability. They really care about Back home I don’t have many camp and there is us unconditionally so much that friends and none that are disabled. They don’t understand always a big change they help us to realize that we in how I act. I’m a can do so much more then what what I go through on a day in day out basis. I’m sad and different person. we think more independent lonely a lot of the time. Always I’m happier, more and not have to rely on our wondering what it’s like to confident much more families to do things for us. They walk, and to not be limited or self-sufficient and. are amazing people taking the excluded in school activities. I I’m a lot more self- time during their summers to have to take medication to not motivated. I always come here; it’s truly an act of get depressed about it. start off the school selflessness.

year with a really

I used to be bullied a lot in Camp is sooooooo amazing and positive attitude. school. People would cut in important to me because it helps front of me in the lunch line me learn to accept myself a little and I wouldn’t always have time to eat so more each year. It gives me the confidence I would just sit in the corner at lunch by to fight through the tough times, knowing myself trying to not cry, waiting for the bell that there is a special place where people to ring so I could go to class. Most days I’d like me can go and be accepted, helped come home from school and cry because I encouraged and treated like an equal, camp felt so alone. is like my happy pill. And at camp I learned that being disabled is what I am. I can’t But at camp people are nicer. I feel happy change that, so I can’t let life get in the and it’s so relaxing when I’m there. I’m not way of my happiness. I can’t let it bring me worried about being judged or stressed down. Maybe I can’t stand physically but out about anything. Going to camp is kind mentally I can do anything. I can’t wait to of like therapy. We do things like archery go back!!!!! and go-carts, stuff I had never done before ~AARON DISCO www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Reimagine Tennis Camp with The Julian Krinsky School of Tennis

The Julian Krinsky School of Tennis (JKST) has been offering tennis camps for over 35 years. JKST has perfected the core tennis summer camp experience by incorporating certified tennis professionals, low player to instructor ratios, how to mentally prepare for a match, and of course, a lot of fun.

It was founded on the principals that tennis camp should be about helping students from beginner to advanced levels discover their strengths and help them develop into the best tennis player possible. But, there was one way that Krinsky noticed he could re-invent the tennis program to make it even better, and that was by adding more customization.

After a successful tennis career, competing professionally on the international tennis circuit including Wimbledon and the Italian and French Opens, Julian founded JKST.

Julian realized that each student has different goals, different areas they want to improve on, and different levels of commitment that typical tennis camps donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cater to. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Since we started, our tennis

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jkcp.com/tennis

camp has always provided certified, top of the line instructors and an incredible learning experience for all levels” explains Krinsky, “but I felt there was another layer of personalization we could add to really help each and every tennis student achieve their personal goals while at camp.”

what you want to work on, players will customize their schedules daily. The JKST experience also offers a unique residential program including housing at Villanova University or Haverford College, plus weekend trips, and evening activities.

This summer, JKST is launching a brand new jkcp.com/tennis Tennis program format, rethinking the way that tennis training works. Now, what they have added is choice! In 2014, players will have a chance to choose a different drill, skill or aspect of their game to improve upon on a daily basis. Through our new Concentration courses, players will be able to choose classes such as Efficiency Lab, Court Sense, Spin It to Win It, and Dynamic Doubles each day. No matter

To find out more about JKCP, visit www.jkcp.com and follow us on YouTube, Twitter and Facebook.

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Check out the fun waiting for your animal-crazed kids!v Oakland Zoo invites kids to come

hang out with us for an exciting week of outdoor nature discovery, animal adventures, and fun! ZooCamp gives your kids a unique opportunity to experience nature and wildlife like only the Zoo and Knowland Park can offer. ZooCamp offers half-day programs for children in Transitional Kindergarten or Kindergarten, and full-day programs for children entering grades 1-8. We split campers into camp programs by grade level and each program has a different theme. Many campers do return year after year, and this structure means they get to learn something new each summer. We also offer two program themes for each grade level, so a camper can attend two weeks without repeating activities. So what happens at ZooCamp? A typical day starts with All Camp Assembly. Each class makes its way to our Wildlife 74

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Theater to say good morning, warm up with a song, and participate in a silly skit or game. Then, classes split up for a morning full of activities – usually a zoo tour or visiting the creek restoration site to look for wildlife. We all join up again for lunch and recess, which is filled with free play options like jump rope and kickball. After lunch, camp groups split up again for afternoon activities – craft projects, examining animal artifacts, story time, and running games – all of which relate back to their program’s theme. For example, our first graders might spend a day learning all about birds by visiting the aviary exhibits, getting to touch and examine different types of feathers, playing a running game in which they race to build a nest, watching a short video about breeding plumage and displays, and then making their own fancy headdresses and creating a dance to attract

a mate. At the end of the day, different camp groups often get together to sing songs or play with our giant Earth ball! Animal Close-Ups are another favorite camper activity. Several times during the week, a small, live animal comes to visit each class. Our Education animal collection includes snakes, lizards, frogs, hedgehogs, ferrets, and more. These animals arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t part of the regular zoo, and the only way you get to meet them is by participating in one of our Education programs. Campers get to see these animal ambassadors up close, learn about them, and find out what they feel like. Our campers are also conservationists! Each summer, we select a different animal to feature on our camp t-shirts and we select a partner organization that is working to protect that animal in the wild. One dollar of each camper registration is donated to the project, campers learn about the project through a special All Camp Assembly, and on Friday, every camper earns a reward for taking action to save wildlife. Many campers also give individual donations and since 2008, ZooCamp has raised over $16,000 to protect cotton-topped tamarins, hornbills,

chimpanzees, sun bears, and all the wildlife threatened by the black market pet trade in Guatemala! We recruit our ZooCamp staff through partnerships with colleges and professional organizations, like the National Association for Interpretation and UC Berkeleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CalTeach program. Many are college students or recent graduates, often with degrees in Biology, Animal Science, Environmental Studies, or another animalrelated field. Many of our camp teachers return to work with us for 4-5 years - good evidence of their dedication to our kids and to the Camp program. Teen Assistants (TAs) are high school volunteers who help guide and manage camp groups. Many TAs are past ZooCampers and are very enthusiastic to create a fun environment for new participants. Each camp class has 10-15 campers with one staff instructor and 1-3 TAs, exact ratios vary by camper grade level. At Oakland Zoo, our goal is to help children make intellectual and emotional connections with wildlife by creating an environment where learning is fun. Please visit our website (www.oaklandzoo.org/Zoo_Camp) to learn more and to register!

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2014

ZooCamp

WHAT IS ZOOCAMP?

ZooCamp is an exciting week of animal adventure, nature discovery, and fun for children (pre-K through high school). Programs are designed so campers can spend one, two, or three weeks at the Zoo without repeating activities. Register for multiple weeks and receive a discount. Before-and after-care options are available. ZOOCAMPS ARE JUNE – AUGUST, 9:00AM – 4:00PM: • Online registration is now open! Go to www.oaklandzoo.org, click on Education & Programs, and then ZooCamp. We also offer ZooCamp during most school breaks: Thanksgiving, winter break, and break. Vol. 3, Issue 2 76springwww.CampNavigator.com

Sending a child off to summer camp can be worrisome for any parent, but it can especially be worrisome for a parent with a child who has autism. However, a week at a summer camp that is designed for children with special needs can be extremely beneficial to a child with autism. It is often the best week of the year for many campers. At camp, they make new friends who can relate with similar life circumstances. At camp, they are no longer â&#x20AC;&#x153;differentâ&#x20AC;?, they are accepted for who they are and they feel a sense of social inclusion. For some children with autism, camp may be one of the only places where they are surrounded by people who understand the daily challenges and struggles that come with having autism. Meeting other people with the same diagnosis can be a source of comfort and support. They donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to feel alone. While at camp, positive role models can be found in staff and counselors and the relationships gained at camp can develop into lifelong friendships. Children with autism, similar to children with other

disabilities, are constantly involved in many environments and relationships surrounded

by people who are paid to be with them (caregivers, therapists, etc.). www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

Camp offers a unique opportunity for these same children to enjoy genuine conversations and relationships with people who desire to be with them. The counselors are voluntarily giving up a week of their summer to pour into these campers and make sure they have a week full of fun, opportunity, and acceptance. For many campers, whether they have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, a developmental disability, a physical disability or a chronic illness, they live in a world that constantly tells them no. Most of these campers are defined by their diagnosis. At a summer camp for those with special needs, the aim is to create a yes environment and allow campers to do things they have never done, things that society often believes they are incapable of participating in. This can be extremely beneficial to a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s confidence. Experiencing these new opportunities away from home can help a child to feel independent and help them to develop into adults that can live a life of ability. Summer camp can promote positive behaviors and social skills while engaging 78

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in affirming, fun activities. Camp offers an opportunity for a child with Autism to get outdoors and interact with the world around them during various activities. Specialized camps can establish essential social, communication, cognitive and sensory skills that someone with Autism is often unable to gain naturally. They are able to improve their confidence, increase selfesteem and establish important communication skills and friendships that they will carry with them into their adult life. These benefits are found during a fun, crazy week at summer camp.

Edventure More’s Camp Edmo and Camp EdTech When families choose Edventure More’s camps, Camp Edmo and Camp EdTech, they are:

1. Supporting a cause to bring equal access to high quality summer programming to kids across the Bay Area. 2. Preventing summer learning loss by providing their child, and others, with summertime enrichment activities 3. Developing multiple intelligences in their child which includes intellectual, social, emotional, and physical intelligence 4. Building life-long 21st Century skills like Curiosity, Confidence and Collaboration that will help them succeed in any life path they choose

Kids Get MORE out of Camp The demands of the 21st Century requires that kids become more fully prepared for all of life’s challenges. The latest research has shown that character skills like curiosity, generosity and grit are even more indicative of a child’s future success than their IQ. To keep up, the goals of education are changing and teachers are moving away from traditional methods of teaching and are bringing new and innovative approaches into the classroom. Summer camps, like Camp Edmo and Camp EdTech, are also continuing the development that happens at school and taking on these new learning initiatives as well. At Camp Edmo and Camp EdTech, children participate in hands-on activities, develop a love of learning and build the skills necessary to thrive, communicate, collaborate, problem solve and think creatively. Edventure More’s one-of-a kind life skills programs, The Edmo and EdTech Vibe Games, then promote and reinforce these traits to prepare children for the future and put them on the road to becoming happy and successful adults.

MORE Details about Camp At Camp Edmo and Camp EdTech, there is something for every age: Camp Edmo (Pre-K – Entering 4th Grade) Arts & Science, Animation, Nature, Recreation and Life Skills Voted Best Bay Area Camp and Educational Support Program 20092013 by BayAreaParent! At Camp Edmo, campers get MORE out of summer by participating in activities designed by Edventure More in partnership with the California Academy of Sciences & Children’s Creativity Museum. Thanks to handson activities, college-graduate Camp Directors and the “Vibe” program,campers build curiosity and www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

21st Century life skills! Summer 2014 themes include Incredible Edibles, Magic & Medieval Times, Critterville, Planet Power, and more. Camp EdTech (Entering 5th – 8th Grade) Digital Media, Recreation and Life Skills Voted Best Bay Area Technology Camp 2013 by BayAreaParent! At Camp EdTech, campers get to make what they play and play what they make. Sessions are taught by industry pros and designed with the Children’s Creativity Museum. Kids get a chance to create androidcompatible apps, use hardware and software to control analog components like lights and buzzers, make, direct, edit & star in their own short films and animations, develop video games or express their unique perspective of the world via digital photography. At Camp EdTech, kids develop tech skills while building life skills. Summer 2014 Sessions: 2-D Video Gaming, 3-D Video Gaming, App Creation, Maker Studio, Animation, Film Making and Animation. Optional Extended Day: Media Lab. Camps are conveniently location in San Francisco, Marin, Contra Costa, Alameda, Santa Clara and San Mateo counties. Camp runs the weeks of June 9 – August 22 and dates vary by location.

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Camp Edmo & Camp EdTech Give MORE Edventure More is a year-round 501(c)(3) non-profit enrichment organization dedicated to inspiring curiosity, confidence and kindness in children. 5% of all summer camp proceeds and 100% of donations support camper scholarships and subsidize the cost of

classroom science programs for schools.

Learn MORE about our Camps Visit campedmo.org or campedtech.org or call 415.282.MORE (6673) or 877.993.MORE (6673) to learn MORE about our camps!

What Families Say About our Camps “I have never seen my son this happy in a group learning environment. His enthusiasm and enjoyment level is off the chart. I believe this week has given him a new experience of himself and others that he’ll carry forward into other group play and instruction experiences.” Liana H., 1st Grade Marina Parent “My sons LOVE Camp Edmo and find it very engaging and enriching. I love that it adds an academic and artistic component that lots of camps don’t have – and in a very fun way...”- Michelle G., 3rd Grade San Francisco Parent “My son uses the experiences at Camp EdTech to help him with drama and media presentations in school. This helps build his confidence in doing creative things at school and around the house.” – Luke S., 6th Grade Alameda Parent “Thank you EdTech Staff for teaching valuable life skills in a friendly and fun environment!” – Donna C., 7th Grade Alameda Parent “It’s fun to discuss his projects (unsolicited) when he comes home from camp. The projects seem to have really given him an understanding of project timelines and time management. His friend and camp-mate discuss what techniques and features they are implementing and that’s pretty neat.” – Ellen S., 5th Grade Noe Valley/Twin Peaks Parent

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Interviews

Bridgette Rappoport Camp Director for Delphi Summer Camp

Q. How long has your camp been operational? A. Summer Camp at Delphi has been operational since 2003. We offer fun camp activities daily, weekly field trips and academic enrichment in a safe, structured environment for campers ages 4-10. Q. Where are you located? A. We are located in downtown Santa Monica, 4 blocks from the beach at 1229 4th Street, ½ block south of Wilshire. Q. What is your camp’s philosophy? A. Our camp philosophy is to provide an environment for our campers to learn new things, make friends and have lots of fun! Q. What does your camp specialize in? A. If I were going to stay a specialty, it would be the academic enrichment. We have campers that come from all over the world to our summer camp in order to have a camp experience but also improve in their academics. Q. What activities do you offer? A. Every camp week is broken up into daily highlighted activities – Monday is The Arts day, Tuesday is Cooking day, Wednesday is Swimming/ Water Play, Thursday is Science Day and Legos and Fridays are our field trip days.

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Q. What are the typical session lengths and approximate pricing for your camp A. Typical session length is two weeks (that is our minimum) and pricing is $480/week, all inclusive. Our camp starts June 24 and runs through Aug 16. Q. How much staff do you have and how do you select your staff? A. We have 8 full time staff members but hire additional professionals in their given fields such as science, fine art, sports and more. Q. Why should parents send their kids to your camp?t A. I think parents should send their children to our camp because it fulfills many of the requirements parents are looking for – academic continuity – not completely breaking from academic instruction in the summer time, a structured schedule with excellent supervision (average classsize is about 12:1), a variety of fun activities and lots of opportunities to make new friends and just have a good time! Q. When does your camp enrollment start and finish? A. Camp enrollment has already begun and is filling up. We do have some spaces still available, so I would just recommend contacting me with via email or phone to inquire about availability and how to enroll. Q. Is there anything else that would be helpful for parents to know about your camp? A. Certainly, I would say that if they are looking for a camp program for their younger or elementary-aged camper, that we are an ideal program for them. We have experienced teachers working with them every day with small class sizes to make sure all our campers have a wonderful experience. Q. What is the best way for parents to reach you to register for Camp? A. Best time to get a hold of me via phone would be in the mornings. I check my email throughout the day.

Franke Smith Camp Director for Hickory Hill Camp

Q. How long has your camp been operational? A. Hickory Hill was opened to the public as a museum in 2004, and in 2005 we hosted our first Dig History! summer day camp. By 2010, the program expanded to include one week of archaeology camp and two weeks of Eco-Adventures camp. Q. Where are you located? A. We are located in Thomson, Georgia about thirty miles west of Augusta, Georgia. Q. What is your camp’s philosophy? A. Our primary goal is to ensure that our campers are given a safe space to enjoy, explore, and learn. Our activities are designed to expose campers to new ideas about ecology, archaeology, history, conservation, and discovery while being highly engaging and enjoyable. Q. What does your camp specialize in? A. We really operate two separate camps. The first is called Eco-Adventures. Campers that attend EcoAdventures will explore our 250 acres, learn about ecology and the complex relationships between plants and animals in our environment, as well as, organic gardening, the human impact and use of our environment, and conservation. Students will harvest heirloom vegetables from the camp garden, use those vegetables to create dishes, learn about the care of chickens, and participate in a host of craft and outdoor activities geared towards an appreciation of the natural world. Our second camp, Dig History!, is

an archaeology camp, and is unique in that, not only do we train the students in proper archaeological field methods, but we actually allow them to participate in the ongoing excavation of the Jefferson Publishing Plant site. Again our focus is to keep the students engaged with history and archaeology by providing hands on activities that allow them to learn key concepts and archaeological principles while having a whole lot of fun. Q. What are the typical session lengths and approximate pricing for your camp? A. Each summer we offer two weeklong sessions of EcoAdventures and one weeklong session of Dig History! Our camps are day camps and last from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 4pm daily. Eco-Adventures is for student’s ages 10-16 and Dig History! is for ages 1117. Each weeklong session is only $60. We provide snacks, but campers should bring their own bag lunch. Q. How much staff do you have and how do you select your staff? A. As Educator, I am the Summer Camp “show runner,” and each summer we hire an intern, a college or graduate student with experience in ecology, education, history, and archaeology. The educator and intern are the primary teachers and counselors for the day camps, but we also rely on the expertise of many employees at our parent company the Watson-Brown Foundation. Our Curator has advanced degrees in archaeology and our groundskeeper has degrees in agriculture and has a true passion for the natural world. We also partner with experts in environmental education from across the state and bring in guest presenters and teachers for special activities. Q. What is the best way for parents to reach you to register for Camp? A. Our offices at Hickory Hill are open Monday-Friday from 10am-5pm, but we do close for field trips. I recommend calling the office at 706-595-7777 or emailing fsmith@hickory-hill.org. We can then send all of the necessary paperwork to our parents via email or snail mail. www.CampNavigator.com Vol. 3, Issue 2

CAMP CATEGORIES

SUMMER CAMPS A SUMMER CAMP IS A PLACE THAT PROVIDES CARE AND ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS.

ADVENTURE CAMPS ADVENTURE CAMPS PROVIDE KIDS AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN ABOUT THE OUTDOORS AND BE INVOLVED IN ACTIVITIES LIKE CAMPING, CANOEING, HIKING,& BACKPACKING.

ART CAMPS ART CAMPS ARE THOSE WHICH INVOLVE CHILDREN AND STUDENTS IN PERFORMING ARTS PROGRAMS, VISUAL ARTS PROGRAMS, DRAMA ACTING, AND MUSIC AND DANCE CAMPS.

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ACADEMIC CAMPS ACADEMIC CAMPS TRAIN CAMPERS IN ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE TO SHARPEN THEIR ACADEMIC SKILLS IN DIFFERENT SUBJECTS.

AFTER SCHOOL CAMPS AFTER SCHOOL CAMPS ARE GENERALLY HELD FOR ELEMENTARY & JUNIOR HIGH STUDENTS , AND PROVIDE QUALITY EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES AND EXPERIENCES, AS WELL AS FUN.

FANTASY CAMPS SPORTS FANTASY CAMPS ARE A CROSS BETWEEN VACATION AND TRAINING CAMP. YOU’RE PAYING FOR THE PRIVILEGE TO SPEND A FEW DAYS HANGING OUT WITH YOUR IDOLS .

RELIGIOUS CAMPS RELIGIOUS CAMPS HELP CHILDREN DEVELOP SPIRITUAL KNOWLEDGE, A SENSE OF DEVOTION, AND PHILANTHROPIC QUALITIES.

SPORTS CAMPS SPORTS CAMPS ARE PERFECT CENTERS FOR BRINGING OUT THE HIDDEN SPORTS TALENTS IN CHILDREN AND ALSO FOR DEVELOPING TEAM SPIRIT, LEADERSHIP QUALITIES & UNDERSTANDING ABILITIES.

WINTER & SPRING CAMPS THESE ARE THE CAMPS THAT TRAIN CHILDREN IN WINTER SPORTS AND EXPEDITIONS DURING THE WINTER SEASON AND INCLUDE SNOW BOARDING, HORSE RIDING, SKETCH WRITING & ATHLETICISM

SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPS SPECIAL NEEDS CAMPS THRUST EMPHASIS ON CHARACTER BUILD UP, ADHERENCE TO HUMAN VALUES, DEVELOPMENT OF NEW ACQUAINTANCES AND SOCIAL TOGETHERNESS.

STUDY ABROAD CAMPS THESE CAMPS ARE AIMED AT DEVELOPING ENOUGH KNOWLEDGE AMONG CHILDREN AND STUDENTS ON HOW TO SELECT THE FOREIGN DESTINATIONS & UNIVERSITIES FOR THEIR HIGHER STUDIES.

TEEN PROGRAM CAMPS THESE CAMPS USUALLY INCLUDE STUDY ABROAD, TRAVEL, COLLEGE INTERNSHIP, AND SIMILAR PROGRAMS FOR TEENS.

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SUMMER CAMPS