Our country and the world for that matter needs leaders more than ever before. It's time for kids and young adults to get trained in leadership. Overnight Summer Camps tend to create children to be flexible problem solvers as well as learn to live with folks that are different. Summer Camps have long been known for their ability to promote skills that are life long. Included in these are: responsibility, independence, cooperation and teamwork, along with a willingness to try new things.
Since 1996 we have been camp directors at Swift Nature Camp. We have always been intentional in using our camps resources to promote positive personal growth and development . It is because of this intentionality that we can see and measure how campers and staff are growing and developing as individuals during their stay at summer camp.
It is our work with campers and staff that ensures that they not only keep the children safe but they need to encourage and assist campers in their own personal development and growth. Every day we meet with staff to check in and see how each camper is doing with meeting their parents directives as well as meeting the camps goals. We envision ourselves as a part of the family in raising the children of our campers.
Even our older teens have a chance to help and guide younger campers. A counselor in training program is designed to help teen engage in leadership and decision-making. Daily their class teaches leadership training along with child development. Then they get a chance to put into practice. For some this is their first time at a job and have a difficult role, since they just want fun. Others see this as a wonderful opportunity to better leaders in the future this is a great program.
Camp is a place that requires boat loads of energy and many find it difficult too give both physically and emotionally all the time. Participating enthusiastically in all activities helps to creates a contagious atmosphere that makes all of a camp fun. Leaders Know how to motivate and encourage, two things taught at summer camp.
Role modeling and mentoring is what we all do at camp. Staff to campers and older campers to younger campers. For many, this opportunity to engage with others and realize the natural power over others. The skills learned of group management, gaining respect and for teaching children new skills carry with these young children for years to come.
Yes, summer camp is a wonderful time to be outside and playing but it is also a wonderful opportunity campers, and staff alike to increase their personal growth and development.
To learn more about selecting a Summer Camp visit summer camp advice a free website with loads of camp information.
Author Resource:
About the authors: Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz are the directors of Swift Nature Camp is a non-competitive, Overnight Summer Camp that offers a traditional summer camp for Boy and Girls. Campers enjoy Teen Adventure Camp trips along with in camp activities: Scuba, Sailing, Skiing and more.