Intro
Being a summer camp counselor can be hectic. But for as hectic as wrangling a bunch of kids every day can be, it can also be incredibly rewarding. You get to make an impact on the lives of multiple campers, and have a hand in molding them into the people they’ll become. On top of that, you’ll make lifelong friendships with your fellow counselors.
So, what should you know before you arrive for your first shift at camp? We’ll tell you.
Memorize Your Campers’ Names
Memorize each of your campers’ names. It might seem like a small thing, but it can make a big impact. Your campers want to feel seen and håeard by you, as you’ll be the main adult they hang around with at camp. If you can’t remember their names, you’ll never gain their trust. And your campers need to be able to trust that they can come to you with any problem they have.
Be a Role Model
One of the reasons you need to memorize their names is because they’re inevitably going to look up to you. You’re going to be the leader of your group of campers, and they’re going to emulate you and the things you do. As a camp counselor, you need to strive to make a positive impact on your campers’ lives. Show them how to overcome adversity. Show them how to handle conflict. Show them how to care for others. Be a positive force in their lives.
Be a Good Listener
You’re working with kids who have complicated inner lives. They’re in a new place, away from their family, living in a bunk with a bunch of other boys and girls. There are going to be questions, there are going to be fights, there are going to be tears. When one of your campers comes to you to talk, you need to give them your full attention. They need to feel like you see them and hear them.
Hone Your Leadership Skills
While as a counselor you make an impact on your campers lives, being a counselor can also make an impact on yours. Counselors hone and sharpen their leadership skills because they are put in a role that requires them to become a leader unless they want a bunch of kids running around like maniacs with no structure. These skills can then be brought back into the real world, whether in school or at work, to help you excel in those places.
About Camp CHOP
Camp CHOP is a culinary summer camp for kids and teens interested in learning how to cook and bake. We always ensure our campers have a fun, engaging, educational, and above all, safe time learning from our team of culinary experts. Along with culinary core activities, campers are also encouraged to choose their own elective adventures and participate in classic camp activities to make lifelong friends.
Is your camper hungry for more? Camp CHOP is reopening for the 2022 season and it’s never too early to register your child. Contact the team today for more information on Camp CHOP’s programs and registration for 2022.