2022 Summer Camps Guide

Page 6

2022 Summer Camps Guide

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

Core Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine & Core Pediatric Dentistry

Keeping You Healthy is at Our Core

Core Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine is dedicated to providing high quality, compassionate care to infants, children and adolescents. We are pleased to assist with the health needs of your family in a child friendly, pleasant environment in four convenient locations. Pediatric allergy and asthma services are also offered at our Exeter location, 603-418-0038.

Epping: 212 Calef Highway Exeter: 9 Buzell Avenue Plaistow: 166 Plaistow Road Stratham: 118 Portsmouth Ave., Bld. D 603-693-2100

603-772-8900

603-257-4000

All locations are welcoming new patients.

Core Pediatric Dentistry, located at 5 Hampton Road in Exeter, provides dental care for infants, children, adolescents and children with special health care needs. For more information, call 603-773-4900.

603-658-1823

corephysicians.org

Like us on Facebook for news, healthy tips & medical information
Inside www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 1 2 Welcome to the 2022 Summer Camps Guide 3 From the New Hampshire Camp Directors Association 4 A Camp for Every Child 8 Choosing the Right Summer Camp 10 Preparing for Camp 13 Health Care Readiness 17 Discussing Differences 19 Camp Directory Berwick Academy is excited to launch our summer camps for the 2022 season! View our brochure and access registration here: www.berwickacademy.org/summer-programs Open to campers ages 4-18 Extended day options for full day experiences 50+ different week long camps to choose from Expert staffing and charismatic counselors Innovative programs from classic summer activities to unique hobby adventures SUMMER ON THE HILLTOP @berwickacademy 31 Academy St., South Berwick, ME 03908

Welcome to the 2022 Summer Camps Guide

When I think back on my childhood, many iconic, memorable moments came during summer camp. Whether it was learning wilderness survival or new social skills, archery or the teamwork and physicality involved in a campwide game of capture the flag, or the epic sense of accomplishment that came with completing my first mile swim (being safely tailed by rowboat the whole time), camp helped me deepen my connection to the natural world — and to my own nature.

And the powerful, expansive experiences camps offer have never been more critical than they are just now. After two years of on-again, off-again semi-confinement, the opportunity for kids to unplug, change the scenery and explore is vital.

The writers in this issue make this point eloquently. They also provide some practical guidelines on choosing the right camp for your child. The experiences I describe above are mostly from Boy Scout camp, and they were a great fit for me at that age, but they are hardly the full gamut of what New Hampshire summer camps offer today. There are overnight or day camps, traditional camps or specialty camps for kids looking to dig deep into specific niche activities. (While I loved Boy Scout Camp, as a musician, I also probably would have been very happy at the summer music camps advertised on page 19.)

In addition to helping you choose the right camp, this issue can help you prepare your child for the camp experience (see pages 10 and 13), both in terms of packing and preparation to health care, and getting ready to meet and engage with new people (page 17). And it may even help prepare you for the challenge of sending your child off on this independent adventure as well.

VICE PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER: Ernesto Burden, x5117 eburden@mcleancommunications.com

EDITOR:

Erica Thoits, x5130 ethoits@nhmagazine.com

GROUP ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR: Kimberly Lencki, x5154 klencki@mcleancommunications.com

CREATIVE SERVICES DIRECTOR: Jodie Hall, x5122 jhall@nhbr.com

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Nancy Tichanuk, x5126 ntichanuk@mcleancommunications.com

SPECIAL PROJECTS SALES EXECUTIVE: Ronnie Schlender, x5150 rschlender@nhbr.com

BUSINESS MANAGER: Mista McDonnell, x5114 mmcdonnell@nhbr.com

BUSINESS & SALES COORDINATOR: Heather Rood, x5110 hrood@mcleancommunications.com

DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST: Morgen Connor, x5149 mconnor@mcleancommunications.com

A SUBSIDIAR Y OF YANKEE PUBLISHING INC., AN EMPLOY EE-OWNED C OMPAN Y

150 Dow Street • Manchester, NH 03101 (603) 624-1442, fax (603) 624-1310

©2022 MCLEAN COMMUNICATIONS, LLC

The 2022 Summer Camps Guide® is published by McLean Communications, 150 Dow St., Manchester, NH 03101, (603) 624-1442. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. The publisher assumes no responsibility for any mistakes in advertisements or editorial. Statements/opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect or represent those of this publication or its officers. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, McLean Communications, LLC disclaims all responsibility for omission and errors.

THE SUMMER CAMP ARTICLES in this issue were provided by the New Hampshire Camp Directors Association under the direction of committee member Marcy Kornreich, former director of Camp Young Judaea in Amherst. NHCDA is a nonprofit that works with camps and the state of New Hampshire to help member camps ensure safety and best practices. The organization provides resources for families, camps and businesses. Go to www.nhcamps.org for more information.

2 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022

Dear New Hampshire Magazine Readers,

On behalf of NH Camps, I would like to welcome you to this special edition, which focuses on helping your family prepare for camp in 2022. Once again, NH Camps is excited to partner with New Hampshire Magazine in bringing these valuable resources to our communities.

NH Camps is a membership organization for directors, former directors and other camp professionals at New Hampshire’s licensed youth recreation camps. We are proud to collaborate with organizations across the state and strive to be the collective voice for camps in New Hampshire.

In 2021, nearly all camps in New Hampshire operated and successfully re-opened their doors to serve campers from across the region and beyond. While last summer presented unique and significant challenges, the reward was getting thousands of children and counselors back to summer camp, providing opportunities to build relationships, develop skills, connect with nature and unplug from devices.

New Hampshire has a long and rich tradition in camping, extending back almost 130 years. It was here that organized summer camps began, and New Hampshire continues to be home to many of the finest camps and facilities in America. Our beautiful mountains, lakes, forests and fields are ideally suited for every camping activity imaginable.

The New Hampshire Camp Directors’ Association represents day, resident, nonprofit and private camps. The association has more than 100 member camps, all licensed by the State of New Hampshire. For more information on member camps, please visit our website at www.nhcamps.org

Enjoy your summer!

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 3

Camps for All

It’s not a myth – there really is a camp for every child.

re you worried about finding the right camp?

While not every camp is a fit for each camper, there’s a camp out there for everyone.

4 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022

In the last decade, there has been meteoric growth of programs catering to different interests, types of kiddos and timelines. Looking for a full summer of outdoors-based overnight camp? Check. Want a week of morning-only coding camp a few miles from home? Swimming lessons every day? No swimming ever? Check, check, check. There are plenty of options, including general programs that offer a bit of everything for everyone.

It can be daunting to determine which camp to choose. Some good advice — the “best” camp out there is the one that fits best for you, your child, your family and your needs. And while you’re searching for that camp, here are a few myths and facts to guide you.

Myth: Camp is too expensive.

Fact: Many programs o er sliding scales, tiered pricing and “camperships.”

If you’re on a budget (and who isn’t?), look for camps that offer sliding scales (which base tuition on the number of people in your family and your household income) or those that offer financial aid (often called “camperships”) to offset the cost of tuition based on need. Some camps also offer “tiered pricing” — the lowest tier is a subsidized rate, while higher tiers more accurately reflect the actual costs for running the camp. Families are asked to choose the tier that accurately represents what they are able to pay.

Many camps also offer discounts, such as for multiple siblings or during certain weeks that fill less quickly. Additionally, many day camp programs qualify for child care credits — a real benefit when you do your taxes.

Myth: My kids can get the same benefits from playing in the backyard like I did when I was a kid.

Fact: Organized camp activities provide essential social-emotional opportunities that kids need more than ever.

Covid disruptions over the past two years have hit kids hard. Outdoor play and social interaction are critical activities, no matter how they happen. But now kids also need opportunities to cultivate relationships with age-appropriate peers, step outside of their comfort zones and rebuild independence. Even a week of camp is a great way for your kids to meet new friends who can then come over to play in your backyard later in the summer.

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 5

Myth: There’s no way a camp can understand my child’s specific set of needs.

Fact: In addition to being great group-focused environments, camps have experienced leaders in the areas of inclusion, support and specialization for individual children.

The best way to ensure that a camp program is set up to provide your child with a great experience is to be honest about your child’s needs. Ask questions about the systems and supports the camp can offer; not every camp will have what you are looking for, although many will be able to work creatively with you to find flexible solutions or recommend a better fit.

What’s most important is that everyone feels comfortable with the arrangement and thinks it is a likely setup for success. Trying to jam a square peg into a round hole can lead to frustration and disappointment on both sides. It may be a bit more complicated to search for just the right place if your child has specific needs, but it will also be all the more rewarding when they come home from camp brimming with smiles.

There truly is a camp for every child. Enjoy the journey of figuring out which one is best for your camper, then get ready for a great summer of fun.

6 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022
For the Best Summers of your Life! A traditional co-ed summer camp on Ossipee Lake in NH! 40+ activities for ages 6 - 16 CampMarist.org
Emily Golinsky, M.S., has been at the helm of Camp Starfish in Rindge for more than 15 years and is the founder of Bright Moose LLC, where she provides training for camps and youth development organizations.

Kids Need Camp Today More Than Ever Before

Why? Because camp lets kids be themselves, laugh, make friends and just be kids. Without screens and distractions, kids easily make friends because there’s always something to do and someone to do it with. Laughter is spontaneous, and bonds form quickly when groups work together to accomplish a goal, whether it’s morning cabin cleanup or building a fire on which to cook s’mores. As the marshmallows brown and catch the flames, voices join and songs ring out, each camper, counselor and staff member grateful for the place, the people and the opportunity to be a part of the accepting community of camp, truly a home away from home.

At our two camps in New Hampshire, Northwoods for Boys and Pleasant Valley for Girls, kids can escape the pandemic and virtual learning. They can retreat into the safety of nature to discover more about themselves and begin to envision the person who they might become.

Camp is a safe place because the adults in charge are dedicated to the preservation of youth in a culture that constantly prods at children to grow up too quickly and mature too fast. These caring and dedicated professionals work tirelessly to ensure that camp is an emotionally secure community where individuality is admired, differences are celebrated and all are welcomed.

The experience is further heightened by the fact that campers live in small same-age/gender groups with

college-age counselors who are carefully selected for their ability to be exceptional role models. Together, they form unique family-like bonds as they work through the day-to-day business of personal care and collective efforts to manage their living space and group dynamic. Together, they clean and strive to win the best cabin award for their efforts. And they make decisions about what they will do in their activity time, learning how to negotiate, dealing with conflict and including everyone in the process. Campers begin to understand what it means to be empathetic, sympathetic and compassionate. They share anxious, celebratory and reflective moments, work through difficult situations and start to build friendships that will endure. Not surprisingly, campers begin to emulate their counselors as they realize how values, integrity and character really matter.

— they’re encouraged to try again and again, achieving a little more with each attempt.

Camps Northwoods and Pleasant Valley are all about chants and songs, traditions and rituals, activities and games, friendships and values — all of which connect kids with what is good in life.

Camp gives kids voices and encourages opinions.

Camp empowers kids to be their authentic selves and develops grit.

Camp teaches kids how to make friends and be a friend.

Camp develops solid life skills that will help kids mature into happy, healthy adults.

Memories are made and kids return home, even the youngest of them knowing that somehow, they have changed, that they are better for having had the experience of camp.

The camp experience is a rite of passage, but more than that, it’s a right that every child deserves, no matter their financial status. That is what we at the Boston Y provide for our kids, for the future, because our world needs it.

Camp is the antidote to the pandemic.

YMCA of Greater Boston Overnight Camps

North Woods YMCA Camp for Boys

144 Gov. Wentworth Highway • Tuftonboro, NH (603) 569-2725

Pleasant Valley YMCA Camp for Girls 144 Gov. Wentworth Highway • Tuftonboro, NH (603) 569-2725

Many parents struggle with the temptation to stay close to their children, hovering nearby to smooth the path so that their children never encounter — or figure out how to deal with — adversity and obstacles. Camp is an ideal solution, providing a learning laboratory for real life in a safe environment. Children and teens converge in an intentionally designed community that nurtures yet challenges in athletic, creative, waterrelated, environmental and challenge activities. Even the youngest and most reticent of campers will push themselves to their personal limits. And if campers don’t succeed, they’re not embarrassed

Kate Lemay has been the executive director of the YMCA of Greater Boston Overnight Camps for six years. She has been working full time in camping and outdoor programs for children since 1999.

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 7 ADVERTISEMENT
bostonycamps.org
• bostonycamps.org

Making the Right Choice

Tips to nd the best camp for your child

With thousands of programs from which to choose, picking a summer camp is not an easy task. Here are some tips I’ve compiled over the past 14 years helping families decide what camp is right for their kids

Day camp or overnight camp? Overnight camps provide fun, enrichment and friendship, but can also help boost a camper’s self-esteem and confidence because campers are away from home and their comfort zone. Day camps are perfect for campers who have weekend or nightly commitments elsewhere, families that need child care and kids who want to test out camp life without having to be away from family.

Traditional camp or specialty camp? Traditional camps offer a wide variety of sports and activities; this is great for campers looking to try out lots of things. If a prospective camper has a passion for a certain sport or activity, you can narrow down choices by searching only for specialty camps that cater to that activity.

Camp length? Camps vary in length from a few days to the full summer. Pick a camp that fits into your summer plans and gives your camper the level of immersion they are ready for and excited about.

Coed or not? Prospective camp parents often struggle with this question. Coed camps allow boys and girls to build interpersonal skills as they interact with each other while

8 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022
Photos courtesy New Hampshire Camp Directors Association

some children may find single-gender camps more comfortable and less pressured. Whatever your thoughts are on the matter, be sure to talk with your child for their thoughts.

Once you have narrowed it down to two or three camps, pick up the phone and ask the big questions:

Can you tell me about your camp? This question allows the owner or manager an opportunity to highlight the important aspects of their operation. Jot down notes on the structure of the camp program, cabins and facilities, number of campers per session, ratio of boys to girls or any other points important to you.

How long has your camp been around? Some camps in the United States have been around for more than 100 years, while others may be embarking on their first summer. Longevity does not make a program good or bad, but learning about changes in management, facilities or programming could be helpful.

What is your role at camp? An off-season camp representative is usually an owner or year-round manager and should have a thorough understanding of the camp’s operations and the camp industry in general.

How do you screen your staff? Counselors will be interacting with campers 24 hours a day. Make sure that a camp employs responsible, age-appropriate and background-checked counselors. If the director does not tell you that they perform background checks, in-person interviews and reference checks, move on to another camp.

What is the counselor-to-camper ratio? Having a great staff is important, but having enough of them is essential. The key ratio to look for in larger, traditional camps is at least 1:4, one counselor to every four campers. Small specialty camps should have even lower ratios, usually 1:2. If the camp offers swimming, you should ask how many counselors are certified lifeguards.

Can we set up a tour? Whether you go to an open house, schedule a private tour or ask for a virtual one, you should try to take this extra step in your camp search.

There are many other questions you should ask. A camp may be perfect for one child but a terrible fit for another — don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Good luck in your search!

Evan Goldner is the founder/director of Water Monkey, a small coed overnight summer camp for kids ages 10-17 focused on water sports including wakeboarding, wakesurfing and waterskiing based in New Durham. For more information, contact Evan at evan@watermonkeycamp.com.

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 9

Preparing Your Camper and You for Camp

A few simple steps will help your child succeed at camp.

Congratulations! Making the decision to send your child to overnight camp for the first time is a big step. You — or they — may be a bit nervous about this new adventure. The good news is that with these tried-and-true preparation strategies, you can help set them up for success

Engage your camper in their preparation: Share information that you receive, whether it’s the packing list, health form, questionnaires or updates. This will help your child feel like they know more about what’s happening. It will probably lead them to think of questions they want to ask before they even arrive at camp.

Create a camp journal: This is a great way for your child to look forward to camp. Have your camper write down or draw all the things they are excited for about camp — whether it’s making new friends, learning skills, trying new things, being outside, etc. Ask questions like “How will you feel if you reach this goal?” “What do you think it will be like to try new things?” and “What are some things you can do to make new friends?” Encourage them

10 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022

are great strategies to add to their journal so that they can feel resourceful at camp.

to bring their journal to camp as a reminder about their excitement and encourage them to add notes during their session.

Ask your camper about their concerns: children will have some worries … “What will I do if I don’t understand something?” “Who can I talk to if I have a problem?” Helping your camper feel capable that they can find solutions and know that the adults are there to help them can go a long way to building confidence that they can be independent.

Talk with your camper about missing

Most home:

Packing for camp: While it may be easier for you to pack for them, engaging your child in the process builds their confidence and independence. Review the clothing and equipment list together, figure out what you have and what you need to get. Can they help label their belongings?

Help your camper understand that missing home, family, pets and friends is normal. By reinforcing the simple message that they can miss home and have a blast at camp at the same time is powerful. Brainstorm strategies they can use if they are feeling sad — talking with friends or their counselor, jumping into activities, drawing pictures, playing games or reading. Have them think about times they have worked through a challenge — it helps them to have a reference experience that they can do hard things. These

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 11

Winterberry Farm Summer Day Camp

Pre-address and stamp envelopes or postcards to friends and family? Lay out their clothing ahead of time? Check off the list during packing? These are all great ways they can be involved.

Now, a few reminders for parents and guardians:

June

July

July

June

July

Read and review all the information your camp provides and don’t hesitate to ask questions.

Resist the urge to tell your child they can come home if they are homesick or don’t like camp. This can quickly backfire and set your child up to be unsuccessful. Talk with your camp about how they handle these situations.

Realize that you may get “camper sick” — again, this is normal. Think about some strategies to help you when you’re missing your child.

Plan something fun to do for yourself while your child is at camp.

Lastly, best wishes for a wonderful summer and know that you are giving your child an amazing gift by sending them to camp!

12 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022
WEEK SESSIONS
2
26 – July 9
10 – July 23
24 – August 6 4 WEEK SESSIONS
26 – July 23
10 – August 6 6 WEEK SESSION
26 – August 6
SESSIONS 333C Birch Hill Road, New Durham | 603.859.4525 campbirchhill.com Classic New England overnight summer camp experience for campers ages 6 – 16.
June
2022
Learn and grow on our small family farm! For children entering grades K - 7 Brookline, NH Register On Our Website!
14 Winterberry Rd Brookline, NH 03033 winterberryfarmnh@gmail.com
Arts & Crafts Organic Gardening Farming & Farm Animals Water & Lawn Games Woodworking Cooking & Baking
www.thebarnatwinterberryfarm.com
Manual
Photo courtesy North Woods YMCA Camp for Boys
Marijean
“MJ” Parry is the executive director of Fleur de
Lis Camp,
an overnight
camp
for girls ages 8-17 located on Laurel Lake in Fitzwilliam. For more information, check out the website at www.fleurdeliscamp.org.

Health Care Readiness

How to ensure your child’s medical needs are met

met.

Ready” for camp. There are so many aspects of readiness. But what if you have questions about your child’s health care needs?

Children who are attending camp may not have any specific health care needs but occasionally require a

Band-aid, or get a bee sting, or have a headache. But perhaps your child has a medical condition such as asthma or serious allergies. They might take medication on a regular basis or need a specialized diet.

As a camp health care professional, I’ll describe the process of health care readiness. First and foremost, there must be a trusting relationship between families and health care staff. Before campers arrive, nursing staff review health histories and special health care needs. It’s vital that families share all the information

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 13

about their camper’s health so we can provide optimal care — whether your child has had issues with bedwetting, mental health, hygiene, social or other concerns, please be sure to be honest and open.

On the camp side, nurses and health care staff work diligently prior to camp to ensure that the health care needs for all campers and staff can be met. We refine communicable disease plans, review medications and vaccination status required for entry to camp. We do safety inspections, order first aid supplies, clean and ensure Covid-19 readiness. This summer, camps will once again follow CDC and American Camp Association (ACA) guidelines.

Nursing staff at camp will connect with parents either before camp or on opening day to review specific needs, receive medications and store any health care equipment necessary for the well-being of the camper. Some camps maintain over-thecounter medications; others require that each camper bring their own items and most have rules about where medication

or other items can be kept — be sure to check with your child’s camp. If your child has asthma or an allergy that might require emergency intervention, be sure to review plans to accommodate medication needs.

Talk to your child before camp about telling a counselor or nurse when they are not feeling well, are hurt or have questions about their medical needs. Role playing (“What would you do if?”) can be a great way to start the conversation with your new camper. A video or in-person conversation with the nurse beforehand can help alleviate concerns as well.

Once camp is underway, nursing staff have a process for medication delivery, first aid, and camper and counselor support. Often, campers have a “camper care team” that works with the medical staff to help campers and staff. Many camps require a nurse to be present on the camp grounds at all times.

Nurses often participate in or visit many of the camp activities, which allows the opportunity to assess children and health care needs throughout the day and evening. It is amaz-

14 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022

ing how much you can evaluate in the dining hall — nurses see who is eating, who isn’t, who is talking to friends, who has appropriate clothing for the weather, who is participating with cabin staff, who has recovered from their headache or tummy ache, etc. Nurses check in with cabin staff frequently. Nurses also help deal with anxiety or homesickness, collaborating with counselors using strategies to help build confidence and resilience.

Summer camp experience is the foundation for learning many life skills, navigating new experiences (with adult support), developing creativity without social media, enjoying the outdoors and developing friendships with different people. Understanding how to get ready for camp, including support for any medical and health concerns, will help ensure your camper’s success.

Mary Lavin is a nurse practitioner who has worked in a variety of roles for the past 30 years at Camp Marist, located on Ossipee Lake in Effingham. Camp Marist is an international coed Catholic overnight camp for campers ages 6-16. For more information, visit www.campmarist.org.

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 15
www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 16 LIFT-ACCESSED DOWNHILL MOUNTAIN BIKING

Discussing Differences

Talking about the “what ifs?” before camp begins.

Hey, parents – it’s almost camp season!

Bug Spray? Check. Sunblock? Check. Awareness that everyone at camp is not like you? Wait, what?

Through pictures and videos, camps show smiling faces, fun activities and beautiful views, all meant to entice new campers to experience the joy of camp. The packing list guides you in identifying the material items needed for your camper’s basic comforts.

There is one missing item from the packing list that can’t be put in a duffle bag, suitcase or even hidden in a stuffed animal: an open conversation about what it might be like living and playing with people you don’t know. Other people are com-

ing to camp with different life experiences, hopes, fears and expectations. Differences at camp are real, should be expected and are a great opportunity for campers to grow and learn.

Let’s be clear: At most camps, campers are not engaging in camp-organized conversations on race, gender identity, religion or politics. If your camper is looking to focus on such topics, those focused camps exist, and please seek them out. The goal of most camps is to form a fun, supportive and open community built on shared traditions and activities regardless of who the campers are and where they came from. It’s true that at some point comments may be made. Conversations happen. Viewpoints are expressed. Disagreements occur. Feelings are hurt. This is where trained staff and administration of camp should step in. Navigating these moments is important.

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 17

We all have different life experiences, upbringing and identities. Your camper can try to hide what they think, feel, or even who they are and not share it with others. But — truly — I would not recommend this. Encourage your camper to be themself. It is so much easier to be yourself all the time as opposed to trying to be someone else some of the time. At camp, your camper should feel safe and supported to be themself around others who are also being themselves. All the excitement and challenges of living and playing with others is what being a part of a community is all about at camp. Each year is new — this year is not last year, just as next summer won’t be the same as this summer.

So, before they go, remember to pack in a conversation. If parents and guardians talk to their campers about some of the “what ifs” of camp, it might help prepare them for the experience. What if someone brings up Black Lives Matter? What if someone brings up politics? What if someone questions whether you belong at camp? Think about it and talk about it before camp. These things may never come up for your camper. After all, campers are busy singing songs, eating s’mores and having dance parties — until they’re not.

Here are some suggestions:

1. Have an open and honest conversation — model what should happen at camp and how to ask for help.

2 . Remind your camper that they don’t have to agree with everyone, but everyone likes to be heard.

3. Remind them, no matter what their intention, if a comment hurts someone else, own the impact of your statement that caused harm and apologize.

4. Encourage them to talk to counselors and camp directors not only in a time of crisis but also for the fun of getting to know new people.

Camps want every camper and staff member to have the best experience possible. The baggage we bring to camp makes us who we are. Sometimes the baggage you come with is not the same stuff you carry home.

Doug Sutherland has extensive experience working for New England summer camps and recreation programs. A well-known speaker and group facilitator, he is a consultant on the topics of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.

18 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022

Summer Camp Directory 2022

American Youth Foundation

— Merrowvista

147 Canaan Rd. Center Tuftonboro, NH (603) 539-6607

Berwick Academy

31 Academy St.

South Berwick, ME (207) 384-6199

www.ayf.com/camps/merrowvista

At Merrowvista, we live life differently. Set on over 600 acres in the pristine, forested Ossipee Mountains of New Hampshire, this beautiful setting provides the perfect backdrop to discover what it means to be “My Own Self, At My Very Best, All The Time!” Programs for ages 10 to 17 are intentionally designed to encourage youth to stretch beyond what is comfortable in order to discover more about their own unique capacities, and then to practice putting one’s own best into action in a supportive community.

www.berwickacademy.org/ summer-programs

Berwick Academy’s innovative summer programming offers over 50 weeklong camps ranging from classic summer favorites to niche activities. Open to ages 4-18, campers stay engaged and entertained all summer long!

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 19 featured advertiser listings

Camp Birch Hill

333C Birch Hill Rd. New Durham, NH (603) 859-4525

www.campbirchhill.com

Camp Birch Hill offers a classic New England overnight summer camp experience in a natural and friendly atmosphere. An elective program empowers campers to choose from more than 50 activities to create personalized schedules. Ages: 6-16 with two-, four- and six-week session options.

Camp Center Stage

295 Maple Lane

Livermore, ME (207) 627-4780

www.campcenterstage.org

Camp CenterStage provides campers and staff an opportunity to explore what they love (the arts) all while participating in character-building experiences! A day at CCS is equal to three days anywhere else. Campers attend daily studios of their choice and rotate through singing, dancing and workshop sessions, which allow them to explore a variety of arts based as well as traditional camping experiences.

20 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 featured advertiser listings

Camp Marist

22 Abel Blvd. Effingham, NH (603) 539-4552

www.campmarist.org

Camp Marist is an international, coed, Catholic overnight camp for campers ages 6-16 years old on Ossipee Lake in New Hampshire. Here, we encourage character-building, kindness, uniqueness and confidence. We boast a staff-to-camper ratio of 1:3. The Camp Marist program provides a variety of activities, including horseback riding, go-karts, tennis, water skiing, sailing, drama, soccer, ropes challenge, baseball, archery and more. Every summer,

hundreds of campers experience the special place that we are. We are proud to provide a place for campers to learn, grow and thrive in positive ways that will enhance their lives forever. We are ACA accredited. Find more at www. campmarist.org.

Camp Moosilauke

55 Moosilauke Way Orford, NH (800) 353-4546

www.moosilauke.com

Moosilauke is one of the oldest residential summer camps in the U.S. Since our founding in 1904, our mission has been simple but powerful: creating confident, happy and resilient boys. Our continued success in achieving our goals is due to a number of factors: our positive and nurturing peer culture; our program of positive risk-taking that encompasses a high level of skill development in sports, waterfront and outdoor adventure; our emphasis on both structure and choice;

and our extraordinary attention to the individual needs of each boy. Combine all of this with an enthusiastic and diverse group of 130 campers (from 18 states and seven countries), an experienced and caring staff, and an incredible campus (100 acres on a secluded mile-long lake in the White Mountains of New Hampshire), and you have all the makings for an amazing summer.

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 21 featured advertiser listings

Day Camp at Orchard School

114 Old Settlers Rd. Alstead, NH (603) 835-2495

www.theorchardschool.org

The mission of the Orchard School & Community Center is to foster community learning, healing and sustaining. We encourage programs that provide inclusive learning for children and adults. We provide a healing space for movement, expression and the restoration of vitality. We sustain the community by encouraging connection with the land, the arts and the diversity of cultures beyond our rural community.

The Derryfield School

2108 River Rd. Manchester, NH (603) 669-4524

www.derryfield.org/summer

DRT is a summer theatre day camp for grades 3-12 that takes place at The Derryfield School. Campers spend their days rehearsing musicals in their casts, participating in performance-based workshops and spirit days, and competing to win the coveted Camp Champ Cup! Each two-week session culminates in a night of performance when the campers present their musicals.

22 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 featured advertiser listings

Fleur de Lis Camp

120 Howeville Rd. Fitzwilliam, NH (603) 585-7751

www.fleurdeliscamp.org

Fleur de Lis has been the muchloved second home for girls for over 90 years. It’s a place of joy and laughter, where girls can be themselves in a most authentic way, make forever friends and create lifelong memories. The development of confidence, independence and skills in decision-making, problem-solving, leadership and community living are hallmarks of our program.

Girl Scouts of the Green and White Mountains (888) 474-9686

www.girlscoutsgwm.org/en/camp/ our-camps.html

Girl Scouts invite girls in kindergarten through grade 8 to join us for summer camp! Day camp offers exciting experiences at Camp Kettleford in Bedford and Camp Seawood in Portsmouth. Girls who have finished grades 1-11 will love resident camp at Camp Farnsworth in Thetford, Vermont. Girl Scouts creates girls of courage, confidence and character. See www.girlscoutsgwm.org or call (888) 474-9686.

Granite Base Camp

300 Blondin Rd. Manchester, NH (603) 854-2662

www.experiencebasecamp.org

Our goal is to send your kids home dirty, tired and happy through classic summer camp experiences like swimming, archery, crafts and nature exploration. We support kids ages 6-10 and 11-14 in learning how to build relationships with new friends, and we are proud of our bully-free environment. Many kids leave at the end of the week sad because they have to say goodbye to their new camp friends. This is a summer camp experience that keeps all kids engaged!

Highland Mountain Bike Park

75 Ski Hill Dr. Northfield, NH (603) 731-1499

www.highlandmountain.com/ camps-lessons/summer-camp

There are multiday summer camp programs for mountain bikers ages 8 to 17. All levels of biking experience are welcome! Five sessions are offered through July and August.

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 23 featured advertiser listings

Manchester Community Music School

2291 Elm St. Manchester, NH (603) 644-4548

www.mcmusicschool.org

MCMS Music Exploration

Camps are designed around the developmental needs of students to inspire musical creativity and spark the fire for learning a musical instrument. Students will have the opportunity to try a variety of instruments, play musical games and make their own instruments. Tuition is $200. For more information or to register, visit www.mcmusicschool.org.

Camp Merrowvista

600 ACRES IN THE PRISTINE OSSIPEE MOUNTAINS

Operated by the American Youth Foundation

Merrowvista is a residential summer camp designed for youth ages 10 to 17 to discover their best selves.

Space in twoor three-week sessions still available for campers in grades 3 to 7. Financial aid available.

McAuli e-Shepard Discovery Center

We bring the universe to you

McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center

2 Institute Dr. Concord, NH (603) 271-7827

www.starhop.com

Join our weeklong STEM camps designed for ages 5 through 14 with an emphasis on hands-on activities and demonstrating learning! Topics include coding, astronomy, dinosaurs and weather.

MoCo Arts

40 Roxbury St. Keene, NH

(603) 357-2100

www.moco.org/camps

MoCo Arts’ multi-arts summer camps provide kids with skills they need to build confidence and explore their creativity.

MoCo’s CAKE & CupCAKE camps are for students ages 4 through grade 12.

24 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022
Learn more at ayf.com/camps/ merrowvista

climbing & fitness

NH Climbing & Fitness

10 Langdon Ave. Concord, NH (603) 715-9171

www.nhclimbinggym.com

We know that everyone has untapped potential inside of them — it’s only a matter of discovering it. Our camps provide the framework for kids of all ages and abilities to discover that potential through climbing-based activities in an encouraging, non-intimidating environment. Join us!

Night Eagle Wilderness Adventures

P.O. Box 479

Wallingford, VT 05773 (802) 446-6100

www.nighteaglewilderness.com

A unique, primitive camp for boys, ages 10-14, based on mutual responsibility and cooperation. Boys develop an authentic sense of accomplishment as they live in tipis, backpack, canoe, hike, carve bows and arrows, throw atlatls and tomahawks, track, stalk and much more! Through community living and group decision-making, campers learn to work and play together in a spirit of cooperation rather than competition.

SEE Science Center

200 Bedford St. Manchester, NH (603) 669-0400

www.see-sciencecenter.org/seecamps-programs

This summer, the SEE Science Center is offering five different hands-on science camps. Find details and register on SEE’s website. Camp Summer Science: Explore slimy science, brain games, design and engineering. iSpy Camp: Discover crime scene investigation, forensics and espionage. Animation Camp: Create a stop-motion film using LEGO bricks and computer technology. FIRST Place Invention Challenge Camp:

Design and program LEGO MINDSTORMS robots to complete missions. Flip the Script Live Action Movie Camp: Star in and film fun, creative science videos and learn about media.

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 25

The Barn at Winterberry Farm

14 Winterberry Rd. Brookline, NH 03033 (603) 672-5602

www.thebarnatwinterberryfarm. com

Winterberry Farm Summer Camp offers children the opportunity to learn and grow on our small family farm with a back-to-basics curriculum focusing on farming, cooking, gardening, manual arts and woodworking.

The Granite YMCA

117 Market St. Manchester, NH

www.graniteymca.org/camps

We provide affordable, quality summer experiences with convenient options such as extended camp hours and sibling discounts. Summer at the Y is filled with adventure, new friends, lifelong memories and so much more! With camp programs based on the Y values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, we provide children with a priceless experience in a safe and supportive environment.

26 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022

Creative Arts at Keene Summer Camp

July 5-29, 2022

For students grade 3 through 12

Sign up for CAKE before May 1 for an early bird discount!

theatre, music, creative writing, technical theatre, visual arts, dance, cooking, chainmail jewelry, tabletop games, video production, and more!

CAKE is $225 per week, with half day discounts available.

Tuition assistance available for all camps!

Sign up for one, two, three or all four weeks of camp!

CupCAKE is $220 per week, with early drop off and aftercare available Mon-Thurs until 5 p.m. for an additional $12 per day.

Families who sign up multiple children will receive 10% off the cost of camp. Sing, dance, play and learn at MoCo Arts this summer!

Summer Camp

June 27-July 1, 2022

August 1-19, 2022

Age 4 through grade 2

Space is limited — call (603) 3572100 or email info@moco.org to register today!

www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022 27
MoCo Arts | 40 Roxbury Street, Keene, NH 03431 | info@moco.org | (603) 357-2100 | moco.org
CHOOSE YOUR OWN CLASSES in ... Transforming Lives Through Movement and Creative Expression.

World Academy

138 Spit Brook Rd. Nashua, NH

603-8881982

www.worldacademynh.com/ programs/camp#intro

World Academy is looking forward to welcoming campers for our 2022 Summer Camp! We believe that camp should be an informal educational experience, devoted to learning, and based on fun, play and action in a safe, yet stimulating environment. Our programs for all ages nurture each child’s natural wonder of the world by providing a catalyst for creativity, imagination and the freedom to explore and discover.

YMCA of Greater Boston Overnight Camps

North Woods YMCA Camp for Boys

144 Gov. Wentworth Highway Tuftonboro, NH (603) 569-2725

www.bostonycamps.org

Your son needs the Northwoods Camp experience this summer! To just be a kid, to laugh, to have fun ... away from screens in the woods.

YMCA of Greater Boston Overnight Camps

Pleasant Valley YMCA Camp for Girls

144 Gov. Wentworth Highway Tuftonboro, NH (603) 569-2725

www.bostonycamps.org

Give your daughter the Pleasant Valley Camp experience this summer! To find herself, be accepted, have fun and thrive in our nurturing, yet challenging environment.

YMCA of Greater Nashua

10 Cotton Rd., Suite 1 Nashua, NH

(603) 598-1533

www.nymca.org/summercamps

Our summer camps are about discovery. Kids have the opportunity to explore nature, find new talents, try new activities, gain independence, build on sports skills, make lasting friendships and memories and, of course, have fun! We offer affordable and quality, traditional, sports and arts and humanities day camp options for age 3 to grade 12 at the Nashua Y, the Merrimack Y, the Westwood Park Y and YMCA Camp Sargent in Merrimack, New Hampshire.

SPOTLIGHT PROGRAM: Summer Theatre Camp

Session 1: July 11-22

Session 2: July 25-August 5

Days: Monday-Friday

Time: 9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.*

Cost: $575/session

A Cast - Rising 4th-6th graders

B Cast - Rising 7th-8th graders

C Cast - Rising 9th-12th graders

28 www.nhmagazine.com | SUMMER CAMPS GUIDE • 2022
*Before-and-After Camp Childcare is available please email summer@derryfield.org.
PROGRAMS ARE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.nmymca.org/summercamps Download the 2022 Summer Camp Brochure Today and Begin Planning Your Kids Best Summer Ever! SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION OPENS MARCH 14! EVERY SUMMER HAS A STORY #BestSummerEver Nashua YMCA Merrimack YMCA Westwood Park YMCA YMCA Camp Sargent YMCA of Greater Nashua COVID-19 CONSCIOUS SUMMER CAMP: We are planning the safest summer camp and will follow any recommended guidelines set forth by local health officials and the CDC. CAMP SARGENT: Weekly Summer Fun, Acting, Archery, Farm, Pokémon, Science, Super Hero Training, Leaders in Training and more. SPORTS: Weekly All Ball, Basketball, Celtics, Flag Football, Ninja, Tennis, and more. CREATE: Weekly Arts of All Sorts, Acting, Art, Brixology, Cheer, Dance, Gymnastics, Music, Painting and more.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.