Kids come to day camp with a variety of temperaments that all add something special to the group.
It is common for children to go through a stage of shyness at some point during their childhood.
Day camp counselors are specially trained to recognize when a child is feeling shy.
There are strategies that can be utilized to help bring them out of their shell.
DEMONSTRATING RESPECT FOR ALL PERSONALITY TYPES
When a child is shy, even the smallest hint of negativity can cause them to retreat further into their shell. For this reason, counselors recognize the benefits of all personality traits.
For instance, a shy child might be an introverted thinker. This might be helpful in a tutoring situation or a chess competition.
Showing kids respect contributes to building trust. It helps shy campers feel safe enough to begin taking risks such as jumping off the diving board.
PROVIDING REASSURANCE THROUGHOUT THE DAY
Most kids are a little shy when they first show up to day camp.
This is the reason day camp counselors make it a point to check in with their newest campers throughout the day.
Ask shy kids how they are doing and offer them a reassuring smile. It helps speed up the process to thrive when they know there is someone nearby who is always on their side.
BOOSTING CONFIDENCE THROUGH NEW EXPERIENCES
Shy children often lack confidence in new situations. Day camp is the ideal place to get them to step out of their comfort zone.
Counselors plan activities that are all designed to challenge every kid to try new things. Everything from swimming lessons, ropes courses and rock climbing walls.
When they accomplish their goal even the shyest camper will want to share their excitement with everyone around them.
GIVING OPPORTUNITIES TO BE A LEADER
Leaders are born at summer day camp. Yet, it may be a little more challenging for a shy child.
As more outgoing boys and girls are jostling for their position as head of the group, shy kids often recede into the background.
However, camp counselors are sensitive to these situations. They make sure everyone gets a turn being a leader.
For shy kids, there are safe leadership opportunities to bring out their best attributes.
One way might be helping to feed the animals in the petting zoo. Another might be welcoming another shy youngster to camp.
HELPING KIDS TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS
Making friends is easy at summer camp. But sometimes the shyest kids need a little support when it comes to making introductions or joining a group.
As day camp counselors get to know each child’s personality, they become experts at helping the shy ones navigate challenging social situations.
Techniques such as pairing kids to work together on a project also help new friendships to form that often continue long after the activity is over.
Summer day camp is the ideal environment for helping youngsters develop the confidence needed to allow their personality to shine.
Yet parents often express concern about how their shy child will do. The counselors recognize their role in helping shy kids to succeed.
Their efforts help shy campers grow into outgoing leaders who love meeting new people and making new friends.
Let your kids enjoy at Maplewod Summer Day Camp.
Experienced staff will keep your child both safe and busy with arts and crafts, games, water sports, gymnastics and more.
VISIT THE SITE AT http://www.maplewoodyearround.com/
MAPLEWOOD COUNTRY DAY CAMP AND ENRICHMENT CENTER 150 Foundry St. (Route 106) PO Box 88 (Mailing) South Easton, MA 02375 Email: info@maplewoodyearround.com Telephone: (508) 238-2387 FAX: (508) 238-1154