Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
One of my favorite things about being a camp counselor is you share inside jokes with other counselors, regardless of what camp you worked at. We've all experienced the same or similar situations, and we all relate. I recently stumbled upon a "You Know You're a Camp Counselor When..." thread on the American Camp Association message boards. So I thought I'd compile a list of my own. Some of these come from that thread, others are my own ideas. Enjoy!
You know you're a camp counselor when...
Your friends and family don't expect to see you over summer
Songs come on the radio, and you sing your camp version and get weird looks from your friends
Tan lines are a competition (that I won this year)
You have a set of camp clothes
You refer to your campers as your kids
You save everything campers make for you
You have made friends from all over the world
You would rather sleep then shower
Mail call is the best time of day
You have a "camp wall" in your room
Your friends are tired of hearing stories that begin with "this one time at camp..."
Walkie Talkies are signs of authority
You value your clip board more than your cell phone
Your favorite songs are about moose, hippos or made up words
You've written a class paper/college essay about camp
You can walk through a dark path at night without a flashlight
I'm sure you all have many more, so feel free to comment them or send them to my email, lifeofacampcounselor@aol.com
You are amazing!
Samantha
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Friday, August 31, 2012
This Whole Commenting Situation
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
I've been told by a few of my friends who read my blog that they tried to comment but were unable to because they are not signed up with the service. So, if you would like to comment but can't because of that reason, feel free to email me your comment at
LifeofaCampCounselor@aol.com
I'll post comments every so often, so feel free!
Hope to hear from you!
You are amazing!
Samantha
I've been told by a few of my friends who read my blog that they tried to comment but were unable to because they are not signed up with the service. So, if you would like to comment but can't because of that reason, feel free to email me your comment at
LifeofaCampCounselor@aol.com
I'll post comments every so often, so feel free!
Hope to hear from you!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
The Second Summer
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
As I have stated many times in this blog, I just finished my second summer as a counselor at the same camp. During my interview, I was told that it would be a challenge. I was warned that it would feel weird. I was promised that I would compare, and it wouldn't seem to match up. But, of course, I did not believe them AT ALL. 'It's not even really my second summer, technically it's my eleventh. And besides, last summer was a huge challenge, this one will be a breeze. They don't really know'. Boy, was I mistaken.
The second summer was a hundred times harder then the first. This was despite the fact that the staff, as a whole, were much more cohesive this year. But for some reason, I couldn't stop comparing. So that's my first bit of advise, try not to compare. Each year is going to be different, so take them each separately. Your new staff family will not be like the previous year. There will be new faces, new personalities, and new drama. Be open to all of it, and don't get hung up on the differences. Also, constantly talking about the past summer with returning staff really feeds this problem. You get sucked into the problems of the past, instead of being a part of the successes of the present.
Once you've stopped comparing, if you're like me, you might still not want to let go of "how things have always been". For example, at the end of campfire, we sing a slow song, and in the past the staff have gone up to the front of the fire. This year, counselors stayed out with their kids. This may not seem like a big deal, in fact, I ended up liking the change. But for the first few weeks, it felt like a disrespect. I had to learn to love new traditions, and be willing to be flexible. Camp is always changing, and it is time to accept that.
I thought camp was going to be a breeze this summer, as a returning counselor. What I didn't realize is that I would have new challenges, involving an older age group to work with, a new teaching position in our program, and the general struggles of eleven weeks at camp. As a second year counselor, try to come in with a positive, wiser attitude. Expect challenges, and use the skills you learned last year to face them with success, instead of being shocked when they arrived. Otherwise, you're in for a reality check.
In the end, my second summer was even better then my first. I believe a lot of that is attributed to the challenges I met, because I gained so much from overcoming them. I knew what to expect, I was given new responsibilities and I felt more effective with my campers. And in the end, that's what it is all about.
You are amazing!
Samantha
As I have stated many times in this blog, I just finished my second summer as a counselor at the same camp. During my interview, I was told that it would be a challenge. I was warned that it would feel weird. I was promised that I would compare, and it wouldn't seem to match up. But, of course, I did not believe them AT ALL. 'It's not even really my second summer, technically it's my eleventh. And besides, last summer was a huge challenge, this one will be a breeze. They don't really know'. Boy, was I mistaken.
The second summer was a hundred times harder then the first. This was despite the fact that the staff, as a whole, were much more cohesive this year. But for some reason, I couldn't stop comparing. So that's my first bit of advise, try not to compare. Each year is going to be different, so take them each separately. Your new staff family will not be like the previous year. There will be new faces, new personalities, and new drama. Be open to all of it, and don't get hung up on the differences. Also, constantly talking about the past summer with returning staff really feeds this problem. You get sucked into the problems of the past, instead of being a part of the successes of the present.
Once you've stopped comparing, if you're like me, you might still not want to let go of "how things have always been". For example, at the end of campfire, we sing a slow song, and in the past the staff have gone up to the front of the fire. This year, counselors stayed out with their kids. This may not seem like a big deal, in fact, I ended up liking the change. But for the first few weeks, it felt like a disrespect. I had to learn to love new traditions, and be willing to be flexible. Camp is always changing, and it is time to accept that.
I thought camp was going to be a breeze this summer, as a returning counselor. What I didn't realize is that I would have new challenges, involving an older age group to work with, a new teaching position in our program, and the general struggles of eleven weeks at camp. As a second year counselor, try to come in with a positive, wiser attitude. Expect challenges, and use the skills you learned last year to face them with success, instead of being shocked when they arrived. Otherwise, you're in for a reality check.
In the end, my second summer was even better then my first. I believe a lot of that is attributed to the challenges I met, because I gained so much from overcoming them. I knew what to expect, I was given new responsibilities and I felt more effective with my campers. And in the end, that's what it is all about.
You are amazing!
Samantha
Monday, August 27, 2012
What's In Your Bag of Tricks: Tuck-Ins
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Every counselor has their own style of doing things, especially when it comes to bed time. I personally love tuck-ins. These are quiet activities done right before lights out. They can be interactive, geared towards the age group, or even used to solve a cabin problem. I have collected many over the years, from some of my counselors when I was a camper, fellow staff members and things that I have read. These are some of my favorites.
The Rose
The rose is an interactive tuck-in, in which each camper tells three things. The flower, which is the best part of their day. The thorn, which is a challenge that they experienced. The stem, which is something they are excited for for the next day. This is good for a cabin that is experiencing some homesickness, as it reminds them of what they have to look forward to.
Shout Out To...
This tuck in gives your campers the opportunity to give props to other members of their cabin. They can give a shout out to anyone in the cabin who did something good. Make sure everyone gets at least one shout out! This can be a good bonding opportunity for a cabin, and is also a great way to make sure everyone knows each others names.
Magic Carpet Ride
Take your cabin on a magic carpet ride. Ask them to close their eyes and imagine their carpet, and then take them on an adventure. If you have younger campers, take them to toy stores, let them pick out three things. Take older campers to a field of horses and let them choose their favorite, asking them to think about the horses color, size etc. This tuck-in can really be adapted to any cabin, and I have found that all ages tend to enjoy it.
Compliment Train
I actually got this from cheer camp back in high school. It's a great tuck-in for the last night of camp. Have all your campers make a line, and then one at a time, they will go down the line. The camper standing in the line gives compliments to the one walking down. Emphasize that you are looking for compliments of merit, more then just "you're really nice" or "I like your hair". This can be a great way for them to say goodbye to each other, and feel really loved on the last day.
Know Your Neighbor
While lying in their beds, have your campers each say something they learned about the person to the left/right/above/beneath them. This is good for the middle of the week, as they are getting to know each other, but can also see that they have more to learn.
Tell a Story
And make it funny! I tell the Princess and the Pea, complete with stomping around the cabin and a Justin Bieber reference. And this tuck-in really works with all ages. I've told stories to 8 year olds, 12 year olds, and 15 year olds. Heck, sometimes I tell them to counselors.
I hope you found this helpful or interesting. I love tuck-ins, as they are a great way to hear about your kids days, check in on how they are doing, or just help them get to sleep on a positive note. I'd love to hear from you about tuck-in ideas you have, so comment or message me!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Every counselor has their own style of doing things, especially when it comes to bed time. I personally love tuck-ins. These are quiet activities done right before lights out. They can be interactive, geared towards the age group, or even used to solve a cabin problem. I have collected many over the years, from some of my counselors when I was a camper, fellow staff members and things that I have read. These are some of my favorites.
The Rose
The rose is an interactive tuck-in, in which each camper tells three things. The flower, which is the best part of their day. The thorn, which is a challenge that they experienced. The stem, which is something they are excited for for the next day. This is good for a cabin that is experiencing some homesickness, as it reminds them of what they have to look forward to.
Shout Out To...
This tuck in gives your campers the opportunity to give props to other members of their cabin. They can give a shout out to anyone in the cabin who did something good. Make sure everyone gets at least one shout out! This can be a good bonding opportunity for a cabin, and is also a great way to make sure everyone knows each others names.
Magic Carpet Ride
Take your cabin on a magic carpet ride. Ask them to close their eyes and imagine their carpet, and then take them on an adventure. If you have younger campers, take them to toy stores, let them pick out three things. Take older campers to a field of horses and let them choose their favorite, asking them to think about the horses color, size etc. This tuck-in can really be adapted to any cabin, and I have found that all ages tend to enjoy it.
Compliment Train
I actually got this from cheer camp back in high school. It's a great tuck-in for the last night of camp. Have all your campers make a line, and then one at a time, they will go down the line. The camper standing in the line gives compliments to the one walking down. Emphasize that you are looking for compliments of merit, more then just "you're really nice" or "I like your hair". This can be a great way for them to say goodbye to each other, and feel really loved on the last day.
Know Your Neighbor
While lying in their beds, have your campers each say something they learned about the person to the left/right/above/beneath them. This is good for the middle of the week, as they are getting to know each other, but can also see that they have more to learn.
Tell a Story
And make it funny! I tell the Princess and the Pea, complete with stomping around the cabin and a Justin Bieber reference. And this tuck-in really works with all ages. I've told stories to 8 year olds, 12 year olds, and 15 year olds. Heck, sometimes I tell them to counselors.
I hope you found this helpful or interesting. I love tuck-ins, as they are a great way to hear about your kids days, check in on how they are doing, or just help them get to sleep on a positive note. I'd love to hear from you about tuck-in ideas you have, so comment or message me!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Saturday, August 25, 2012
The End of Summer
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Summer of 2012 has officially come to a close for me. It was a wonderful, challenging, life changing experience, as always. I met new friends, developed skills and hopefully made a positive impact of campers.
One of the hardest moments in summer is the end. You have to say goodbye to a group of people you have been living and working with for months, re-adjust to normal life, and actually get dressed. You have to stop saying corny camp sayings, store your camp songs in the back of your mind for a while, and attempt to get rid of tan lines. If you are a life long camper, like myself, you have to go back to pretending you are actually a normal human being.
I will be talking through some of these challenges in this blog, and giving my advise/experiences with them. As always, please feel free to comment and share your personal experience.
Leaving Your Family
Camp staff becomes a family like no other. And suddenly, you are all torn apart, never to be together as a whole again. It doesn't matter if you loved every single member (unlikely) or barely got along with any of them. You will end up missing them. And chances are, you met some best friends in your group, and being away from them will make you feel un-whole. At our goodbye staff party, one of our directors talked about having to leave our new family. They explained that even though every day apart is another day from the last time we were together, it's also one day closer to the next time we will see each other. Having a positive outlook can really take the last day from being sorrowful to joyful, because you know you will see each other again.
Re-adjusting To Real Life
I've been told it is NOT normal to walk around singing hippo songs. It can actually be hard to turn of the counselor part of your brain, and get back into the normal world. Hopefully, however, you learned some things you can carry over into everyday life. While singing camp songs may not be acceptable, having enthusiasm on a day-to-day basis is. If you can convert your camp skills into more practical daily skills, it makes the re-adjusting process a lot easier.
Telling Stories That No One Else Gets
Yeah, okay we get it, you don't think that story was funny. But seriously, if you were there... How many times does that happen after camp ends? It can be so hard, because you truly want to share the experience with your other friends, but the stories end up being "you had to be there" types. Try to keep the stories to a minimum with your non-camp friends. Even if it does mean that you have to tell them to your dog.
Getting Camp Sick
This was a HUGE problem when I was a camper. And while camp is now work as well as fun, I do still miss it immensely when I'm gone. Luckily, the modern world has made it so easy for us to combat this. Skype is my favorite thing in the world, since I have friends all over the world and I can talk to them FOR FREE. Awesome. Also, snail mail is way fun. I love pen pals.
I hope you are all doing well getting back to school/normal jobs/being bored. I for one am now back at school, and keep getting "The Princess Pat" stuck in my head. Oh well, Winter Camp is only a few months away.
You are amazing!
Samantha
Summer of 2012 has officially come to a close for me. It was a wonderful, challenging, life changing experience, as always. I met new friends, developed skills and hopefully made a positive impact of campers.
One of the hardest moments in summer is the end. You have to say goodbye to a group of people you have been living and working with for months, re-adjust to normal life, and actually get dressed. You have to stop saying corny camp sayings, store your camp songs in the back of your mind for a while, and attempt to get rid of tan lines. If you are a life long camper, like myself, you have to go back to pretending you are actually a normal human being.
I will be talking through some of these challenges in this blog, and giving my advise/experiences with them. As always, please feel free to comment and share your personal experience.
Leaving Your Family
Camp staff becomes a family like no other. And suddenly, you are all torn apart, never to be together as a whole again. It doesn't matter if you loved every single member (unlikely) or barely got along with any of them. You will end up missing them. And chances are, you met some best friends in your group, and being away from them will make you feel un-whole. At our goodbye staff party, one of our directors talked about having to leave our new family. They explained that even though every day apart is another day from the last time we were together, it's also one day closer to the next time we will see each other. Having a positive outlook can really take the last day from being sorrowful to joyful, because you know you will see each other again.
Re-adjusting To Real Life
I've been told it is NOT normal to walk around singing hippo songs. It can actually be hard to turn of the counselor part of your brain, and get back into the normal world. Hopefully, however, you learned some things you can carry over into everyday life. While singing camp songs may not be acceptable, having enthusiasm on a day-to-day basis is. If you can convert your camp skills into more practical daily skills, it makes the re-adjusting process a lot easier.
Telling Stories That No One Else Gets
Yeah, okay we get it, you don't think that story was funny. But seriously, if you were there... How many times does that happen after camp ends? It can be so hard, because you truly want to share the experience with your other friends, but the stories end up being "you had to be there" types. Try to keep the stories to a minimum with your non-camp friends. Even if it does mean that you have to tell them to your dog.
Getting Camp Sick
This was a HUGE problem when I was a camper. And while camp is now work as well as fun, I do still miss it immensely when I'm gone. Luckily, the modern world has made it so easy for us to combat this. Skype is my favorite thing in the world, since I have friends all over the world and I can talk to them FOR FREE. Awesome. Also, snail mail is way fun. I love pen pals.
I hope you are all doing well getting back to school/normal jobs/being bored. I for one am now back at school, and keep getting "The Princess Pat" stuck in my head. Oh well, Winter Camp is only a few months away.
You are amazing!
Samantha
Saturday, August 4, 2012
My Apologies!
To all of my fellow camp counselors,
I apologize for my absence this summer. Although there are not many of you who read my blog, and the main reader may be my mother, I still feel you deserve an explanation. I had all intentions of posting weekly this summer, but when it came to my few nights off, I generally spent them sleeping and doing laundry.
However, there is good news. I have been journaling all summer, and have many blog posts in the works, ready to be posted as soon as camp ends. Hopefully they will be semi-insightful, as they were written "in the thick" of summer camp.
I hope your summer is going well. If you are working at camp this summer, I hope you are having a great time. I'm almost done for the summer, the camp I work at is about to enter our second to last week. Time flies so fast! Soon, it will all be a memory.
You are amazing!
Samantha
I apologize for my absence this summer. Although there are not many of you who read my blog, and the main reader may be my mother, I still feel you deserve an explanation. I had all intentions of posting weekly this summer, but when it came to my few nights off, I generally spent them sleeping and doing laundry.
However, there is good news. I have been journaling all summer, and have many blog posts in the works, ready to be posted as soon as camp ends. Hopefully they will be semi-insightful, as they were written "in the thick" of summer camp.
I hope your summer is going well. If you are working at camp this summer, I hope you are having a great time. I'm almost done for the summer, the camp I work at is about to enter our second to last week. Time flies so fast! Soon, it will all be a memory.
You are amazing!
Samantha
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
That Camper: The One Who Doesn't Want To Be at Camp
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
This week, I'd like to talk about one of the most dreaded campers of the summer, the one who simply doesn't want to be at camp. Maybe their parents just needed a week off, maybe they are trying to get the child to face a fear, maybe they simply aren't ready; whatever the reason, they do not want to be there.
These campers come from many places. Some are simply not excited to be at camp. They don't want to get involved, they resist making friends and in general they alienate themselves from the program at large. With these campers, I recommend trying to find them a program that they enjoy. Then see how you can get them further involved. Could the staff leader of that area give the camper a job there? Could they be given the opportunity to learn more about that area? Allowing this camper to do something they enjoy will open them up to the rest of the camp experience.
Some campers are afraid of the activities. Maybe they are secretly terrified of the water, and are now at a lake front camp. Maybe horses make them nervous, but were sent to riding camp. It doesn't matter how or why, but now they are terrified and uncomfortable. Sometimes they are embarrassed to speak up, so watch out for campers who seem to always "feel sick" around the same activity time. This is when you have to be flexible as a whole staff. Is there a way to make them for comfortable? Someone to walk next to their horse, or an extra flotation devise in the water? Try to get them to try the activity. However, sometimes this simply will not work. If they outright refuse, focus the camper on another area that they enjoy. So the horses are scary, but they seem to love archery. Get them there as much as possible.
The camper may have had a bad previous camp experience. Encourage this camper to try new, different things, and help them to make friends. Have your entire cabin bond as early as possible to create new friendships. If they have friends having a great time, they may come to realize that camp is awesome after all!
Regardless of what the reason that the camper does not want to be there, as a counselor, your primary role is to make it a positive experience. You have the opportunity to become a hero, and potentially change their life. It's a challenge, but the outcome is the reason we became counselors in the first place; to do good for these kids.
Good luck!
You are amazing!
Samantha
This week, I'd like to talk about one of the most dreaded campers of the summer, the one who simply doesn't want to be at camp. Maybe their parents just needed a week off, maybe they are trying to get the child to face a fear, maybe they simply aren't ready; whatever the reason, they do not want to be there.
These campers come from many places. Some are simply not excited to be at camp. They don't want to get involved, they resist making friends and in general they alienate themselves from the program at large. With these campers, I recommend trying to find them a program that they enjoy. Then see how you can get them further involved. Could the staff leader of that area give the camper a job there? Could they be given the opportunity to learn more about that area? Allowing this camper to do something they enjoy will open them up to the rest of the camp experience.
Some campers are afraid of the activities. Maybe they are secretly terrified of the water, and are now at a lake front camp. Maybe horses make them nervous, but were sent to riding camp. It doesn't matter how or why, but now they are terrified and uncomfortable. Sometimes they are embarrassed to speak up, so watch out for campers who seem to always "feel sick" around the same activity time. This is when you have to be flexible as a whole staff. Is there a way to make them for comfortable? Someone to walk next to their horse, or an extra flotation devise in the water? Try to get them to try the activity. However, sometimes this simply will not work. If they outright refuse, focus the camper on another area that they enjoy. So the horses are scary, but they seem to love archery. Get them there as much as possible.
The camper may have had a bad previous camp experience. Encourage this camper to try new, different things, and help them to make friends. Have your entire cabin bond as early as possible to create new friendships. If they have friends having a great time, they may come to realize that camp is awesome after all!
Regardless of what the reason that the camper does not want to be there, as a counselor, your primary role is to make it a positive experience. You have the opportunity to become a hero, and potentially change their life. It's a challenge, but the outcome is the reason we became counselors in the first place; to do good for these kids.
Good luck!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Walmart, Heaven on Earth
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Before I was a counselor, I couldn't stand going in to Walmart. Maybe it was the crowds, maybe it was the people that made up those crowds (see PeopleofWalmart.com) or maybe I just didn't fully appreciate the vast glory that is Walmart. But once I started working as a counselor, I quickly learned that in reality, Walmart is truly heavenly.
It's Cheap
The amount of money I spend on cabin decorations, crafts, themed outfits and late night snacks is outrageous. Thankfully, Walmart sells in bulk and cheap. That plus a little bit of thrift store hunting saves me hundreds of dollars.
They Sell Everything
My weekly shopping list typically includes flip flops, a water bottle, sun screen, a t-shirt, sun glasses, cereal, nutella, and lots of cabin decorations. And that only BEGINS to explain how different the things I need are. Enter Walmart. It's all there. Clothes? Check. Food? Check. Camping supplies? Check. Personal hygiene? Check. Decorations? Check. I'm serious. EVERYTHING.
There Are Fun Things On Sale
My favorite area of Walmart is the dollar box. They sell random snacks, decorations, party favors, etc. for a dollar or less. You never know what you need until it's on sale for a dollar.
McDonalds
Or some kind of fast food usually reside in Walmart. And on a camp budget and counselor hunger, sometimes you just need food fast.
Pure Entertainment
The lovely frequent shoppers of Walmart (including myself, I have pink cat pajamas that have seen Walmart) are sometimes rather, well, colorful. And sometimes after a week at camp, they are just what you need.
Shop on!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Before I was a counselor, I couldn't stand going in to Walmart. Maybe it was the crowds, maybe it was the people that made up those crowds (see PeopleofWalmart.com) or maybe I just didn't fully appreciate the vast glory that is Walmart. But once I started working as a counselor, I quickly learned that in reality, Walmart is truly heavenly.
It's Cheap
The amount of money I spend on cabin decorations, crafts, themed outfits and late night snacks is outrageous. Thankfully, Walmart sells in bulk and cheap. That plus a little bit of thrift store hunting saves me hundreds of dollars.
They Sell Everything
My weekly shopping list typically includes flip flops, a water bottle, sun screen, a t-shirt, sun glasses, cereal, nutella, and lots of cabin decorations. And that only BEGINS to explain how different the things I need are. Enter Walmart. It's all there. Clothes? Check. Food? Check. Camping supplies? Check. Personal hygiene? Check. Decorations? Check. I'm serious. EVERYTHING.
There Are Fun Things On Sale
My favorite area of Walmart is the dollar box. They sell random snacks, decorations, party favors, etc. for a dollar or less. You never know what you need until it's on sale for a dollar.
McDonalds
Or some kind of fast food usually reside in Walmart. And on a camp budget and counselor hunger, sometimes you just need food fast.
Pure Entertainment
The lovely frequent shoppers of Walmart (including myself, I have pink cat pajamas that have seen Walmart) are sometimes rather, well, colorful. And sometimes after a week at camp, they are just what you need.
Shop on!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Dos and Don'ts: Staff Training
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
Well, I am officially half way through Staff Training 2012!! And let me tell you, it has been amazing. I have the privilege of spending this summer with thirty-some staff members from all over the world. And since I'm in the throws of training, I thought, what better blog topic?
Do: Get Outside of Your Comfort Zone
Try something new. Talk to somebody you wouldn't usually. Explore your camp and all of the amazing new things it has to offer.
Don't: Overdo It
You have all summer to try doing new things, don't worry if you miss one thing. Instead, try to get to know a few areas that you think you would excel in.
Do: Get To Know Everyone
Especially within the first two days, try to talk to most of the staff. Everyone is trying to get to know each other, and at this point they might be too shy to approach you. Take the initiative.
Don't: Worry If You Don't Love Everyone
Some people need time to grow on you, and some people are just not going to be best friends. You don't have to like everyone, you do have to be respectful and willing to work together peacefully.
Do: Step Up
Take on some responsibility. If a program area needs a lead and you think you could do it, speak up!
Don't: Step On Toes
Chances are your camp has some returning staff. They might have a lot of experience, and while they would certainly appreciate support, try not to overstep. Be willing to listen and learn.
Do: Get To Know the Administrative Staff
If you're going to work for these people for the summer, you may want to know them. Know personalities and quirks. These could really be helpful for the summer.
Don't: Forget To Be A Part of the Summer Staff
If everyone is sitting at the camp fire, join them! Go out together on the weekends, hang out on off time, and become a family!
Do: Pay Attention
Falling asleep in training sessions is so not good. Try to keep the eyes open and the ears listening. You will regret it if you fall asleep in a training session about how to deal with campers getting sick in the night.
Don't: Stress the Small Stuff
You won't remember everything you are taught. If you miss a few details here and there, its OK.
Do: Get Silly
Sing campfire songs, dance around, be weird.
Don't: Be Too Cool
You won't look cool, you look bored.
Do: HAVE AN AWESOME TIME!
Duh :)
You are amazing!
Samantha
Well, I am officially half way through Staff Training 2012!! And let me tell you, it has been amazing. I have the privilege of spending this summer with thirty-some staff members from all over the world. And since I'm in the throws of training, I thought, what better blog topic?
Do: Get Outside of Your Comfort Zone
Try something new. Talk to somebody you wouldn't usually. Explore your camp and all of the amazing new things it has to offer.
Don't: Overdo It
You have all summer to try doing new things, don't worry if you miss one thing. Instead, try to get to know a few areas that you think you would excel in.
Do: Get To Know Everyone
Especially within the first two days, try to talk to most of the staff. Everyone is trying to get to know each other, and at this point they might be too shy to approach you. Take the initiative.
Don't: Worry If You Don't Love Everyone
Some people need time to grow on you, and some people are just not going to be best friends. You don't have to like everyone, you do have to be respectful and willing to work together peacefully.
Do: Step Up
Take on some responsibility. If a program area needs a lead and you think you could do it, speak up!
Don't: Step On Toes
Chances are your camp has some returning staff. They might have a lot of experience, and while they would certainly appreciate support, try not to overstep. Be willing to listen and learn.
Do: Get To Know the Administrative Staff
If you're going to work for these people for the summer, you may want to know them. Know personalities and quirks. These could really be helpful for the summer.
Don't: Forget To Be A Part of the Summer Staff
If everyone is sitting at the camp fire, join them! Go out together on the weekends, hang out on off time, and become a family!
Do: Pay Attention
Falling asleep in training sessions is so not good. Try to keep the eyes open and the ears listening. You will regret it if you fall asleep in a training session about how to deal with campers getting sick in the night.
Don't: Stress the Small Stuff
You won't remember everything you are taught. If you miss a few details here and there, its OK.
Do: Get Silly
Sing campfire songs, dance around, be weird.
Don't: Be Too Cool
You won't look cool, you look bored.
Do: HAVE AN AWESOME TIME!
Duh :)
You are amazing!
Samantha
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Up Close And Personal: Part I
Hello to all my fellow camp counselors!
Occasionally, I'll be writing blogs about my feelings regarding camp. These will be basically little pieces of my personal diary. I hope you enjoy!
I can't believe it was a almost year ago that I started my first summer as a counselor. It always felt like such a landmark in my life, and to think that it was an entire year ago is crazy. And now I'm about to begin my second summer. I'm feeling so many things. Nervous, about nearly everything, from a new staff to new responsibilities. Excited, to get to spend another summer doing exactly what I love. And a little stressed, considering that I haven't even begun to pack.
Well that was that. I hope you liked it, I'll be doing these occasionally.
You are amazing!
Samantha
Occasionally, I'll be writing blogs about my feelings regarding camp. These will be basically little pieces of my personal diary. I hope you enjoy!
I can't believe it was a almost year ago that I started my first summer as a counselor. It always felt like such a landmark in my life, and to think that it was an entire year ago is crazy. And now I'm about to begin my second summer. I'm feeling so many things. Nervous, about nearly everything, from a new staff to new responsibilities. Excited, to get to spend another summer doing exactly what I love. And a little stressed, considering that I haven't even begun to pack.
Well that was that. I hope you liked it, I'll be doing these occasionally.
You are amazing!
Samantha
Monday, May 28, 2012
Things They Don't Tell You To Pack
Hello to all my fellow counselors!
We all get those lists of things to pack for camp. However, they are typically geared towards campers, or don't really stress the right things. So this is a list of things that I found I needed throughout my first counselor summer.
Socks
You have not packed enough.
Alarm Clock
It is always nice to know what time it is in the cabin, and you shouldn't use your phone to wake yourself and your cabin up.
A Shower Tote
If you have ever lived in a college dorm, you know what I mean. Something that you can carry your toiletries to and from the showers.
Oil Free Sunscreen
You are going to have to put it on your face several times every day, it should be good for your skin.
More Socks
You think I''m joking.
An Extra Stuffed Animal
To lend to homesick campers.
Pictures From Home
They help keep away your own homesickness. Also, campers sometimes like to see them.
A Digital Camera
To take pictures, and so you don't end up with a hundred disposable cameras.
Shirt/Pair of Pants/Shoes That You Are OK Ruining
For obvious reasons
Markers/Paper
For writing cabin rules or decorating your cabin.
Tape
To put up your cabin rules or decorations.
No Really, More Socks
I mean it.
Shower Shoes
You so don't want to go in there with bare feet.
Knee Socks/Suspenders/Other Random Weird Things
If your camp does themes, has a camp dance, or if you ever just like to be weird.
Twin Size Mattress Pad
Makes your bunk bed ALOT more comfortable.
Sunglasses
Life really sucks when you have to squint all summer.
A Zip-Up Hoodie
It just always seems to be better then a pullover.
Water Bottle/Clip
You can connect it to your jeans, and it's way easier then carrying it around.
Did I Say Socks?
You are amazing!
Samantha
We all get those lists of things to pack for camp. However, they are typically geared towards campers, or don't really stress the right things. So this is a list of things that I found I needed throughout my first counselor summer.
Socks
You have not packed enough.
Alarm Clock
It is always nice to know what time it is in the cabin, and you shouldn't use your phone to wake yourself and your cabin up.
A Shower Tote
If you have ever lived in a college dorm, you know what I mean. Something that you can carry your toiletries to and from the showers.
Oil Free Sunscreen
You are going to have to put it on your face several times every day, it should be good for your skin.
More Socks
You think I''m joking.
An Extra Stuffed Animal
To lend to homesick campers.
Pictures From Home
They help keep away your own homesickness. Also, campers sometimes like to see them.
A Digital Camera
To take pictures, and so you don't end up with a hundred disposable cameras.
Shirt/Pair of Pants/Shoes That You Are OK Ruining
For obvious reasons
Markers/Paper
For writing cabin rules or decorating your cabin.
Tape
To put up your cabin rules or decorations.
No Really, More Socks
I mean it.
Shower Shoes
You so don't want to go in there with bare feet.
Knee Socks/Suspenders/Other Random Weird Things
If your camp does themes, has a camp dance, or if you ever just like to be weird.
Twin Size Mattress Pad
Makes your bunk bed ALOT more comfortable.
Sunglasses
Life really sucks when you have to squint all summer.
A Zip-Up Hoodie
It just always seems to be better then a pullover.
Water Bottle/Clip
You can connect it to your jeans, and it's way easier then carrying it around.
Did I Say Socks?
You are amazing!
Samantha
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
25 Pieces of Advice
Hello to all my fellow camp counselors!
For my first official post, I thought I'd give some basic and random advice to first time counselors. Some of these are original thoughts, some are from counselors/staff that I've worked with or have talked to.
For my first official post, I thought I'd give some basic and random advice to first time counselors. Some of these are original thoughts, some are from counselors/staff that I've worked with or have talked to.
1. There is no book, blog, article or training session that can tell you how to be a counselor.
2. During training, try to remember a few ice-breakers/time fillers. You will use them more often than you think.
3. Take advantage of your nights off. Have fun, do something "grown up", hang out with fellow staff members and non-camp friends (if possible), and this above all else, GET SOME SLEEP.
4. Don't take yourself too seriously. If you want the campers to be silly, you're going to have to do the same.
5. Get your acrylic nails taken off before camp starts.
6. Be firm on the first day of camp. Lay down rules, explain consequences, and earn the respect of your cabin. You have the rest of the week to have fun and laugh with them, but this is the day that you set the tone. If you don't have respect on the first day, the rest of the week will be a struggle.
7. Never say the word "homesick" to a camper. Once they have a word for it, they will make it their identity, and it will only get worse.
8. Know which rules are meant to be followed down to the letter, and which can be bent.
9. Never be afraid to ask for help from fellow staff members.
10. Find the balance between respect for the campers that have been at your camp for a long time, and still maintaining the fact that you are in charge.
11. Wear sunscreen.
12. If you date a fellow counselor, remember that your priority is still the campers. They should always come first. And they should NOT know that you are in a relationship with a staff member.
13. The only way that you can put the campers before yourself is if you take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, eat well, drink water, and do what you can on your days off to restore your sanity.
14. Don't use sarcasm with campers. They tend to take you seriously.
15. Be yourself with your fellow staff members. They will become your family, make sure they know who you really are.
16. Find the nearest Walmart.
17. Save letters, notes, crafts or anything else your campers make you.
18. You did not buy enough socks. Go get more.
19. Know a good bedtime story or two. Campers like them at every age. Heck, some counselors like them too.
20. Do tuck-ins. (If you don't know what a tuck-in is, it's a short activity you do with your cabin right before bed, like everyone going around and saying what the best part of the day was)
21. When checking in, take a moment to semi-privately ask whoever is dropping the camper off if there is anything else you need to know. Sometimes they don't want their camper to know that they are telling you something, but it could be critical.
22. Learn where they keep the coffee.
23. Come in with an open mind. You will interact with campers, counselors and staff from all different backgrounds, experiences and cultures. Use it as an opportunity to learn and live outside of your box.
24. Take pictures.
25. You are about to be a role model. You will change someones life. You are going to be someones go-to counselor in their memory. Come prepared for that, understand it, and embrace it.
Hope you liked it!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Hope you liked it!
You are amazing!
Samantha
Introduction
Hello to all of my fellow camp counselors!
About Me:
My name is Samantha, and I have been a part of the camp world for fourteen years. I have been a camper, a Leader in Training (LIT), a Counselor in Training (CIT), a program staff member and a counselor. Although I have been a part of many camps, in both camper and leadership roles, I have spent eleven years at a residential camp in Southern California, where I have been a camper, a CIT, and am about to embark on my second year as a counselor. I have come to think of camp as my home.
This Blog:
I love reading different counselors advice and stories, and getting feedback. So, I thought, why not share my own thoughts? I'll be doing weekly blogs, discussing whatever camp-related issue, story, or thought feels fitting. Of course, camp is fast approaching this summer, so my posts will likely relate to the previous week of camp. Please feel free to comment with any questions, advice, stories, thoughts, comments, etc. The best thing about camp staff is the collaboration of experiences and personalities!
Stay tuned, the first real post is on its way!
You are amazing!
Samantha
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