Summer Camp Programming

MARCH 11, 2024

Does your camp have theme weeks or theme days? In this series of posts, I give you 5 ideas for different themes. Check the comments for more ideas and to add your own. Below are my five suggestions. What’s yours? OUTDOOR FUN The outdoors provides kids with many opportunities to be creative. Run an Art […] The post Theme of the Week – Creative Campers first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

MARCH 8, 2024

Long ago, I discovered a charming concept of creating playful “survival kits” to give to friends and colleagues, bringing a smile and a moment of appreciation to their day. Recently, I stumbled upon my collection of these whimsical kit ideas, and I figured they were perfect for the challenges of camp life. These kits can […] The post Silly “Survival Kits” for Summer Camp Fun first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

MARCH 6, 2024

SHOW NOTES Hosts Kelie and Shauna, after a series of serious episodes, decide to lighten the mood by introducing a fun, rapid-fire segment focused on camp traditions. Utilizing a wheel to randomize selections, they explore their experiences and thoughts on a variety of camp traditions, such as the Apache Relay, family/parent days, awards for campers […] The post Ep 31: Exploring Camp Traditions: A Rapid Fire Discussion first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 28, 2024

SHOW NOTES Chris and Curt welcome Whitney Mueller from Academic Entertainment, who shares her journey with the company from its humble beginnings to becoming a leading provider of entertainers for camps and schools. The episode covers the variety of programs offered, ensuring no camp ever has to endure the horror of a boring guest […] The post SCP 200: Bringing Entertainers to Camps: A Chat with Academic Entertainment first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

This is an idea for a week-long theme – this activity is based on a space theme, but it could be easily adapted to just about any theme. Ages: Any age (with age-appropriate activities planned) Supplies: Many metal washers in 3 sizes (or other objects based on the theme chosen) Program Overview: (originally created for […] The post Space Orbits and Activity Auction first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

Supplies Required: Various Items to Use for “Physical Challenges” Target Age Group: Grades 3-5 or 4-6 Description: We had a game show like the 90’s game show “Double Dare.” We broke the kids into 2 groups. To start the game, the teams had to complete a physical challenge. For this challenge, did the sponge relay […] The post Double Dare first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

The game is called Mission Impossible and like the title, the mission or activity will be difficult to impossible for the groups to finish. Their mission is to find and locate a certain number of stations and complete the activity at each station. Participants are broken up into groups – each group must stick together […] The post Mission Impossible first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

(*adapted from Mike Fitzpatrick at Seedbed) General Guidelines We gave each player a bandana to be able to identify zombies versus humans. As humans became zombies, they swapped their bandana location. We used small foam balls as ammunition for the humans. For each game ammunition can be hidden around, each can start off with a […] The post Zombie Apocalypse first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

Last week I ran a roundtable for the Best Camp Program. Anyone could submit an idea. I received over 60 submissions. Twelve of them did not meet the guidelines, so they were ineligible. Many of the rest were fantastic. It was difficult for us to widdle them down to the top six. To vote, use […] The post Vote for Your Favorite Camp Program (Voting Ends Thursday) first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 27, 2024

Supplies: sports equipment score cards pens a whistle a stopwatch Object of the activity: Engage as many campers as possible. Object of the game: Get as many points for your bunk as possible. Set up: The ideal location would be a large gym or outdoor basketball court. Let’s say that you have 7 bunks participating […] The post Sports Switch first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 23, 2024

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Kelie and Shauna, are joined by Shane Meserve, a consultant and trainer on mass violence and child abuse prevention, for a discussion on the topic of mass violence and its impact on children and camps. The episode focuses on ways in which programs like camps can aid in prevention, utilization […] The post Ep 30: Understanding Mass Violence and Its Impact on Children in Camps with Shane Meserve first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 22, 2024

I recently wrote a post on programming for younger campers ages 5-7. In this post, I’m covering ages 8-10 with 5 summer camp programs that offer multiple activities. Each program session is 50 minutes. Digital Storytelling and Animation This program introduces campers to the basics of creating digital narratives and animations, empowering them to express […] The post Summer Camp Programming Ideas for Campers Ages 8-10 first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 20, 2024

Programming for different age groups can be difficult. Each of us tends to have good instincts for a specific age range when it comes to programming. I, for example, am better at programming for tweens (ages 11-13). A colleague of mine is great at coming up with programming for the in-between ages of 8-10. As […] The post Summer Camp Programming Ideas for Younger Campers (Ages 5-7) first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 19, 2024

Starting Monday, February 19, 2024, I am holding a best camp programs competition. If you would like to enter, click here. GENERAL OVERVIEW This is similar to the online/email roundtables I have run in the past. This time, however, there are prizes involved. While our favorite six submissions will be made public, all those who […] The post The Best Camp Programs Competition first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

FEBRUARY 13, 2024

SHOW NOTES Curt and Chris discuss the concept of mini-camps as an introduction to the main camp for younger kids. They delve into how it gives children a taste of what a traditional overnight camp is like, and how it can help manage homesickness. Chris shares his experience of running a ‘discovery camp’, providing an […] The post SCP 199: The Art of the Mini-Camp first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 30, 2024

SHOW NOTES Curt and Chris discuss various puzzle activities that can be a great addition to your camp program. They share their experiences with puzzle hunts, races, and escape rooms, highlighting the appeal of problem-solving over narrative. Four distinct puzzle-based camp activities are detailed including Station Puzzle Races and Puzzle Hunts. They share insights on […] The post SCP 198: Unleashing Your Campers’ Inner Problem Solver: Puzzle Hunts and More first appeared on Summer Camp Pr

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Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 24, 2024

SHOW NOTES Kelie and Shauna are joined by Claire Griffith, a recreation specialist working with cognitively impaired individuals. Claire addresses trauma informed care within a camp setting, stressing the importance of safety, trust, transparency, peer support, and collaboration, and acknowledging cultural, historical, and gender issues. They explore how trauma informed care can influence Gen Z, […] The post Ep 29: Understanding Gen Z: Trauma-Informed Care in Camp Settings first appeared o

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Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 23, 2024

The inspiration for this article comes from Craig Huffman. Cooking with Cindy Consider a new specialized activity option that just might elevate the camp experience to new heights. “Cooking with Cindy” is a program that was introduced at a summer camp whose kitchen manager, Cindy, spearheaded. This innovative program not only enriched the campers’ experience […] The post New Programs: Specialized Activities with Camp Managers first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 20, 2024

This article was inspired by Amy McSheffrey and the wall they have in one of their rooms. The reflection wall in the image above would be a transformative addition to any camp environment. It can play a pivotal role in instilling a powerful lesson for your young campers. As kids pass by this interactive wall, […] The post A Neat Way to Empower Responsibility in Children first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 19, 2024

The original inspiration for this post comes from Cindy Grant. Teaching Social Skills at Camp Let’s talk about social skills – those essential abilities that help us interact with others in positive and respectful ways. Social skills are not always easy to learn, especially for kids who have different needs and preferences. That’s why it’s […] The post Foster Positive Relationships at Camp with Fun Social Skills Lessons first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 18, 2024

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Curt and Chris discuss a wide variety of topics for summer camps. This is their 10th magazine edition. This episode includes a special event idea, program idea, staff idea, new AI tool, some trivia questions, theme ideas, and more. Links: Pika.art Stand-Up Paddle Boards ORTUR Laser Master 2 Laser Engraver […] The post SCP 197: Magazine Style #10 first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 10, 2024

In this episode, Shauna gives a detailed rundown of her experiences at the Women in Camp Summit 2023, also known as WICS. The episode includes discussions on several important topics including the significance of intersectionality in camping, the importance of transparency in job descriptions to accommodate neurodivergent individuals, trauma-informed management, and the impact of privilege. […] The post Ep 28: Insider’s Look: Women in Camp Summit 2023 – Conversations and Takeaways first ap

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Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 6, 2024

The original submission of this activity came from Marianne Manning. It’s time to embark on a medieval journey and captivate your campers with an imaginative and interactive “Quest for the Holy Grail” game. I’ll walk you through creating an unforgettable adventure filled with royalty, knights, and a legendary quest that will engage and excite campers […] The post How to Host a “Quest for the Holy Grail” Adventure Game at Your Camp first appeared on Summer Camp Progr

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Engagement 130

Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 3, 2024

Here’s a fun and unique way to capture memories this summer. Why not create your own DIY photo booth at summer camp! Over the years I’ve seen a few camps embrace the DIY photobooth. These are pretty easy to set up and can be very low cost. With a few supplies and some creativity, you […] The post DIY Summer Camp Photo Booth first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Events 130

Summer Camp Programming

JANUARY 2, 2024

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Curt and Chris ramble on (as they do) about ways to thank the staff and celebrate the end of the summer camp season. From holding an end-of-summer staff party, giving unique gifts like rose quartz or a piece of camp land, to conducting fun activities like a slumber party, awarding […] The post SCP 196: Great Ways to Thank Your Staff at the End of Summer first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

DECEMBER 28, 2023

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Kelie and Shauna give a different take on the Summer Camp Society’s November 14th episode: Rethinking the Counselor Role. Links: Summer Camp Society Podcast: Season 2 Episode 13 The Other Side: Episode 2 – Are We Asking Too Much of Our Staff? Want to add to our conversation? Have a […] The post Ep 27: The Other Side of Rethinking the Counselor first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

DECEMBER 20, 2023

Last year I started a bead reward program. A friend of mine had told me about it. The YMCA she had worked at ran a bead reward program at their camps. So I thought, "What the heck, I'll give it a shot." The post Summer Camp Bead Program first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

DECEMBER 20, 2023

Kids often love water activities and games at camp for a variety of reasons: the novelty of the games or activities played at camp, escaping from the heat, and the sense of adventure many water games and activities provide. Here are some fun water ideas for next summer. Spell It Have you ever tossed a […] The post Fantastic Water Activities for Summer Camp first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

DECEMBER 20, 2023

SHOW NOTES In this festive episode, Curt and Chris discuss pool and water activities, including games that use plastic Easter eggs, tennis balls, and kitchenware. They also give ideas for games like pool tic-tac-toe, slip-and-slide kickball, and Protect the President. Chris also talks about his successful Christmas fundraiser and the art of roasting chestnuts on an […] The post SCP 195: Water Activities to Keep Your Campers Cool Next Summer first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

DECEMBER 11, 2023

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Shauna and Kelie get raw with Joel Van Egbert as they discuss ways camp directors can improve the mindset, conditions, and retention rates of camp counselors. #CampJesus Joel’s email: joel@wildchild.camp Want to add to our conversation? Have a question you want us to discuss? Email Us: exploringcampsides@gmail.com HOSTS KELIE COOK SHAUNA […] The post Ep 26: Camp is for the Counselor with Joel Van Egbert first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

NOVEMBER 29, 2023

SHOW NOTES Kelie and Shauna discuss what they have seen in camper behavior over the last two summers, their experiences, and their ideas to begin combating it. Want to add to our conversation? Have a question you want us to discuss? Email Us: exploringcampsides@gmail.com HOSTS KELIE COOK SHAUNA GUGLIELMO The post Ep 25: Camp Behavior – It’s Getting Worse first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

NOVEMBER 22, 2023

SHOW NOTES This week’s episode is a remix from episode 13 way back in 2019. (The Pre-Covid days)! The guys give 8 great ideas for camp-wide games that you can play with the whole camp! This episode is a great listen to update some of your current games! HOSTS CURT JACKSON CHRIS KALLAL The post SCP 194: Remix: Camp Wide Games first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

NOVEMBER 14, 2023

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Shauna and Kelie talk with Frost Valley CEO, Riel Peerbooms, about the rising childcare cost and how it affects camps. Links: Riel Contact: ceo@frostvalley.org Want to add to our conversation? Have a question you want us to discuss? Email Us: exploringcampsides@gmail.com HOSTS KELIE COOK SHAUNA GUGLIELMO The post Ep 24: The Rising Cost of Childcare with Riel Peerbooms first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

NOVEMBER 8, 2023

SHOW NOTES This is the 9th magazine style episode and it’s a little different than the others. Why? Because the ideas the guys talk about are A.I. generated…and many of them are REALLY good. HOSTS CURT JACKSON CHRIS KALLAL The post SCP 193: Magazine Style Episode #9 (A.I. Edition) first appeared on Summer Camp Programming. The post SCP 193: Magazine Style Episode #9 (A.I.

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Magazine 246

Summer Camp Programming

NOVEMBER 2, 2023

SHOW NOTES This episode was recorded before the 2023 summer season. Shauna and Kelie share their plans for staff training and share some great resources. Take a listen and get some cool ideas for your 2024 staff training. Links: Gamestorming: A Playbook for Innovators, Rulebreakers, and Changemakers (book) How Long To Visiting Day?: Creative Role-Playing […] The post Ep 23: Staff Training Ideas and Thoughts first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Summer Camp Programming

OCTOBER 23, 2023

SHOW NOTES The guys each give 4 camp-wide event ideas you should be offering at your camp. They give a very wide variety from Table-Top Escape Games, to Top Shot Activities, to Art Shows. If you’re looking to fill some time with something awesome, check out this episode for that awesome! Links: How to Run […] The post SCP 192: 8 Special Events You Should be Offering at Camp first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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Events 130

Summer Camp Programming

OCTOBER 19, 2023

SHOW NOTES Shauna and Kelie discuss a recent book they read, Sticking Points by Haydn Shaw about the 4-5 generations that are in the workplace and how it relates to camp! Sticking Points by Haydn Shaw Want to add to our conversation? Have a question you want us to discuss? Email Us: exploringcampsides@gmail.com HOSTS KELIE […] The post Ep 22: Sticking Points- A Book Review and Discussion of Generations in the Workplace first appeared on Summer Camp Programming.

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