Thursday, January 14, 2010

Leadership Skills Happen at Camp

By Lonnie Lorenz

More than ever before we need leaders. Those who attend Overnight Summer Camps tend to teach skills like flexibility along with problem solving. Living with those who are not the same as yourself and are from different parts of the country or world promotes an acceptance of diversity. Those who send their children to Overnight Summer Camps have long been aware that camps promote a childs personal growth and development. Many of these traits include: independence, responsibility, cooperation, teamwork and a willingness to try new concerns.

As summer camp director since 1996 we know that the best directors are intentional in using their camps resources to promote specific aspects of positive personal development . It is because of this intentionality that we as camp professionals can see and measure how campers are growing and developing as individuals during their stay at camp.

At Swift Nature Camp we work one on one with camp staff to ensure that they realize that they have an obligation not only to keep children safe but to encourage and assist campers in their own personal development and growth. During daily staff meetings we check in with staff to see if they are on course with the parents directives as well as the camps goals.

Our older teens receive the chance to guide younger campers as well. This counselor in training program is designed to help teen engage in leadership and decision-making. Classes teach leadership skills as well as child development. Then they get to get out and see it works for them. These teen need to have desire to participate and lead others, without this desire they just become older campers. But for those who want to become 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.

Camps provide an opportunity to be role models and mentors to younger children. This is not only true for those staff members but also for campers. For many, this is the first time that they realize the natural power they have over others. They learn skills for group management and gaining respect and for teaching children new skills and encouraging them to try new things.

Overnight Summer Camp is full of fun! But, what makes camp so special is it provides the opportunity for kids, teens and young adults to practice and learn their leadership skills in a loving and supporting environment.

Learn more about Picking a Summer Camp. Visit summer camp advice a free website with loads of camp information.

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