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For many parents, sending a child to sleepaway camp comes with a mix of emotions – excitement, nerves, stress and lots of worry. But there’s also something else I hear parents admit (sometimes quietly) … relief. Because for the first time all year, their child’s phone will be gone. No negotiating screen limits. No late-night scrolling on the iPad. No constant pull of texts, apps, games and social media. Just seven weeks with the device finally out of reach. In an age of AI and continuous digital connection, this might be the most intentional decision a parent can make.

Every summer, we watch the same moment unfold. The buses pull into camp, girls spill out, hugging friends they haven’t seen in a year, squealing with excitement. Soon after, they hand in their phones and say goodbye to their technology for the summer.

What’s changed, especially in the last few years, is the palpable sense of relief that follows. A collective exhale. Campers have arrived at their safe place – where they can unplug and just be kids. It’s hard to describe what we, as camp directors, witness firsthand: how seven weeks without phones, texts and social media can favorably impact a child’s confidence, friendships and ability to connect with others.

Communication at sleepaway camp is a throwback to an earlier, pre-tech era. Parents send their child away for seven weeks. They are allowed three scheduled 10-minute phone calls (on a landline) and one in-person Visiting Day. Campers write letters home. While parents can catch a glimpse of camp life through photos and Instagram highlights, the real magic of camp – the stuff that truly matters – can’t be captured on a screen.

Discomfort and Detox
Once campers settle in, there can be moments of discomfort without their technology. They may miss scrolling through social media and having entertainment at their fingertips. This sense of “withdrawal” is proof of how deeply phones are woven into everyday life. Today’s sleepaway campers are not just giving up games or videos. They’re stepping away from algorithm-driven content, AI-curated feeds and constant social comparison. The important thing? That discomfort is fleeting. It quickly turns into something else: playing cards with bunkmates, trading jibbitz or sticker beans, reading books (no kindles allowed) or simply sitting on the bunk porch making friendship bracelets and talking about nothing and everything.

Being Present
At Point O’Pines, we talk a lot about being present and appreciating the gift of camp. Without a phone in their hands, there’s nothing to look down at. Instead, campers look up. They notice their beautiful surroundings. They make eye contact with others. They listen longer. Conversations stretch without interruption. Games can last hours instead of minutes.

Without a phone, there is no easy way to “opt out” of the moment. If campers are looking for more, they invent something. They choreograph a silly dance to perform at the talent show – not for TikTok, but just because. If they’re upset, they talk to their counselor, to their friend, to their big camp sister. In a world increasingly shaped by AI – where everything is customized and instantaneous – these types of unfiltered experiences are becoming rare.

Real Social Skills Take Over
Artificial Intelligence is designed to mimic human thinking – learning, predicating, problem-solving and even choosing words for us. And while AI has certainly helped in many areas (including simplifying administrative processes for camp directors!), camp itself remains refreshingly human.

There are no AI shortcuts to building human relationships. When phones and other devices are removed, campers have the time to connect face to face with each other and their counselors to forge bonds and friendships that will carry them through life.

A device-free environment also gives campers the opportunity to navigate the ups and downs of human relationships. I’ve watched campers work through conflict in person, sometimes for the very first time. Instead of texting or crafting the ‘perfect’ response – they sit down, talk it out, and learn how to listen. With guidance from our staff, they face hard moments head-on and grow from them.

The Takeaway
Parents often tell me that when their daughters reunite with their camp friends during the year, phones barely come out. These girls are used to being together – really together – without a screen in between them.

Seven weeks without technology does not mean kids fall behind socially. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. What we see, summer after summer, is that our campers return home more confident, more resilient, and more connected. In an age of AI and constant digital noise, camp gives kids something rare: time, space and the freedom to just be kids. And that’s something no algorithm can replace.

About the contributor:

Nikki Grossman is one of the Directors of Point O’ Pines Camp, an all girls sleepaway camp in the spectacular Adirondack Mountains. At POP, Nikki oversees all aspects of Residential Life – making sure all campers and staff are happy, healthy and having fun! Nikki serves on the SCOPE Associate Board and is devoted to giving all children, regardless of their socio-economic background, access to summer camp. Nikki is passionate about developing youth and believes summer camp has a profound impact on children – allowing them to gain confidence, independence and resilience. 

For over 100 years, Lake Bryn Mawr Camp, located in Wayne County Pennsylvania, has been one of the premier all girls’ camps. It continues to thrive as a traditional 7 week sleepaway camp – while also housing two, more recently established, specialty camps for Dance & Horseback Riding. 

Bryn Mawr Riding Camp (established in 2012) and Bryn Mawr Dance Camp (established in 2018) offer two-week focused programs. Open to dancers and riders of all levels – these camps offer a unique specialized experience with the resources and support of being under the Lake Bryn Mawr Camp umbrella, directed by Dan and Jane Kagan (veteran directors of over 30 years). Campers in both programs get to live all aspects of camp life & activities – making it a true camp experience while growing as dancers/riders. 

• What inspired the creations of both Bryn Mawr Dance & Bryn Mawr Riding Camps, and what core values continue to guide the camp experience today?

DANCE: Bryn Mawr Dance Camp was inspired by the desire to create a two-week sleepaway program that prioritizes dance for campers who might not be able to commit to a traditional seven-week session. In my roles as program director and parent liaison, I gained insight into the unique needs of young dancers seeking a true summer camp experience. Bringing this vision to life required dedication and new facilities, but the transformation came together seamlessly and has since enriched Bryn Mawr’s summer offerings. Today, the camp blends classic summer fun with intensive dance training, empowering campers to grow, take risks, and express themselves creatively – all within a supportive all-girls environment where each dancer can truly shine.

RIDING: Bryn Mawr Riding Camp was founded in 2012 for campers who want their entire summer experience to revolve around horses and riding. Built on the four core values of our traditional camp: Loyalty, Beauty, Merit, and Comradeship – these principles guide everything we do and create an unforgettable experience for our riders. Sharing the main campus, values, and resources of Bryn Mawr allows us to offer a specialized riding program while still embracing the spirit of a traditional camp. To enhance this experience, we acquired a beautiful 50-acre equestrian facility nearby, where campers live out the four core values as they grow as equestrians. At the heart of our camp is a deep respect for the horse – our sport wouldn’t exist without these incredible animals – and we ensure every camper learns and honors the fundamentals of horse care alongside their riding.

• What kinds of friendships or social experiences do campers typically form here, and how does the camp foster a supportive, inclusive environment?

DANCE: At Bryn Mawr Dance Camp, a shared love of dance sparks friendships from day one. Campers quickly form meaningful connections through a mix of dance training and classic camp activities, from the first campfire to adventures on the ropes course. In our supportive all-girls environment, campers cheer each other on and focus on personal growth rather than competition. We nurture an inclusive community where every dancer finds a place to belong, celebrate achievements, and embrace new challenges, creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

RIDING: Bryn Mawr Riding Camp creates friendships like no other, built on a shared love of horses. Our campers can always start a conversation with “horses!” Campers, ages 11–15, participate in activities as a group while being sorted by riding level for lessons. This allows them to connect with peers their own age, as well as younger and older campers. No matter their background or riding experience, every camper is supported in reaching their riding goals, forming bonds that are strengthened both in the barn and across camp activities.

• What sets Bryn Mawr Riding Camp apart from other riding camps? Are there any special traditions or programs you’re especially proud of?

DANCE: What sets Bryn Mawr Dance Camp apart is our unique blend of a traditional girls’ summer camp with a dedicated dance program. Campers enjoy daily dance instruction across a variety of styles while also taking part in classic camp activities: tubing, ceramics, ropes courses, campfires, and more. This combination allows dancers to train seriously while having fun, forming friendships, and making lasting memories beyond the studio. By combining the tradition of camp life with focused dance training, we enrich both the dancers’ skills and their overall camp experience.

RIDING: Several things set Bryn Mawr Riding Camp apart – first and foremost, our horses. Through wonderful partnerships with the University of Findlay (Ohio) and Centenary University (New Jersey), we bring in horses used on their intercollegiate riding teams during the year. These horses are exceptionally trained and experienced in hunters, jumpers, dressage, eventing, and more. Campers ride a different horse each day, gaining valuable experience with a variety of breeds, sizes, temperaments, and disciplines – each horse offering something unique to the rider.

Our facilities are equally impressive, featuring 40 stalls, an indoor arena, five outdoor arenas, trails, and a cross-country field. Being part of the traditional Lake Bryn Mawr Camp also allows our riders to enjoy classic camp activities – swimming, rock climbing, cooking, arts, and sports – blending a specialized riding experience with the best of summer camp fun.

• For parents considering Bryn Mawr for their child, what should they know about how the camp supports growth both on and off the horse?

DANCE: Parents should know that Bryn Mawr Dance Camp fosters personal development in every aspect of camp life. On the dance floor, campers receive instruction tailored to their skill level, allowing them to grow technically in a supportive environment. Off the floor, they build confidence through adventure activities, develop teamwork and resilience in group settings, and gain independence by living in cabins and managing daily camp routines. The camp’s philosophy emphasizes character building, focusing not only on dance skills but also on nurturing self-confidence, resilience, and a supportive attitude toward others.

RIDING: At Bryn Mawr Riding Camp, we support all young equestrians, regardless of experience or background. Our program is designed so that riders of every level can fully participate in all activities and be fully immersed in the camp experience. Off the horse, our counselors are kind, attentive, and help campers form lasting connections. Above all, camp is about fun and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

• How has the camp evolved over the years, and what exciting plans or innovations are in store for the coming summers?

DANCE: We’re excited to announce that Acrobatic Arts will be added to our class schedule for summer 2026! Our gymnastics facility is among the best in the camping industry, and we’ve spent the off-season creating new programming for both new and returning campers. We’ve also designed fresh evening activities while preserving our favorite dance camp traditions. This summer promises an elevated yet grounded experience that will challenge, inspire, and delight our dancers.

RIDING: I feel fortunate to have watched Bryn Mawr Riding Camp evolve over the years! I started as a counselor in 2011 and have been part of the camp since its very first summer. Now, in our 15th summer, it’s incredible to see how much we’ve grown. We’ve upgraded our facilities – adding two outdoor arenas, more stalls, improved our cross-country course, and expanded turnout pastures – and we’ve refined our program based on what campers love. New activities, like a three-day event combining cross-country, dressage, and show jumping, have become a favorite. Looking ahead, we’ll continue to enhance our facilities with new fencing and leveled arena footing, while introducing new riding exercises, on-the-ground lessons, and games that campers will enjoy.

• If you had to describe Bryn Mawr Dance / Riding Camps in three words, what would they be – and why those words?

DANCE: Supportive – A community that celebrates every dancer, lifts each other up, and encourages growth at every step.

Expressive – A space to explore movement and creativity freely, build confidence, and become your best, most authentic self.

Fun – Where the joy of dance meets classic camp adventures, unforgettable moments, and friendships that last well beyond the summer.

RIDING: Well, the obvious answer is “horses, horses, and horses!” That’s what camp is really all about. On a deeper level, I’d say our core values are Kindness, Growth, and Friendship. Kindness comes first – both toward our horses and toward one another. Horseback riding can be a challenging sport for young women facing outside pressures, and we work to create a space where kindness guides every interaction. Growth happens for everyone at Bryn Mawr, as campers and staff alike learn valuable skills and life lessons. And Friendship – the bonds made at camp are truly special, whether it’s finding a best friend from across the world or forming a connection with a beloved horse.

About the Contributors:

Elizabeth Howard is a rare find and a big reason as to why Bryn Mawr Dance Camp stands above the rest. Liz has the unique combination of a lifetime of dance training, a deep dance performance resume, years of experience teaching dancers of all levels, and a passion for and background in summer camp leadership.

Emily Tyler, a certified CHA level 4 English riding instructor, has been part of the Bryn Mawr Riding Program since 2011. She spent two years as a riding instructor and cabin counselor, prior to being promoted to the Leadership Team in 2013. Emily teaches all levels, from the beginner to the more advanced rider, and has an excellent understanding of the emotional needs of girls. An integral part of Emily’s job is scheduling, where she matches campers to a horse and an instructor, allowing them to reach their full potential during lessons. Emily lives at Bryn Mawr year-round and is responsible for all staff hiring and training. Emily has been riding in the English hunter/jumper community for over 25 years, in addition to a year spent working directly with an equine veterinarian, during which she learned additional medical and horse care skills that she enjoys sharing with campers and staff. Additionally, she brings experience in event riding, dressage, and cross country. Emily graduated from Virginia Intermont College with a B.S. in Equine Studies. She actively competed with the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association as well as the Intercollegiate Dressage Association.

Every single year, there’s a shift.

Presidents Week ends and suddenly camp goes from a distant summer dream to something sitting front and center in your family calendar. Even if there’s snow outside your window, mentally, we’re all inching toward lakes, bunks, and Color War. And with that shift comes questions:

Are we behind?

What should we be doing right now?

How do we make this feel manageable?

Take a breath. You are right on time. Here’s how camp season naturally unfolds – month by month – and how to move through it with calm, clarity, and confidence.

End of February: Start Smart, Not Stressed

February is about quiet organization.

Print your packing list. Save it to your phone. Keep it accessible.

Returning camper? Try on last year’s gear. Make note of what didn’t come home.

First-time family? Book your camp outfitter appointment early – embroidery and labeling take time.

Nothing dramatic needs to happen this month. Just gentle forward motion.

March: Build Momentum

March is when excitement starts bubbling up.

We’ll be sending “We’ve Got Your Pack” tips to help you think through care packages, essentials, and those fun little extras that make camp feel personal.

This is also when conversations at home start to increase:

“Who will be in my bunk?”

“Will I like my counselor?”

“What if…?”

Let those conversations happen naturally. You don’t need to solve everything. You just need to create space for the questions.

April: The Emotional Prep Month

April is when camp feels real. And when something feels real, feelings follow. Excitement. Anticipation. Nervous energy. A little clinginess. A random “I don’t know if I want to go.”

All normal.

Campers can be homesick and happy. Brave and unsure. Ready and nervous. Sometimes within the same five minutes. April is about emotional readiness:

• Talking about what independence looks like

• Normalizing mixed emotions

• Reinforcing confidence without dismissing nerves

It’s also a practical month to quietly stock up on essentials so May doesn’t feel overwhelming. Preparation isn’t just about packing – it’s about helping your child believe, “I can do this.”

May: Label Everything (Yes, Everything)

May is logistics month.

Label the socks.

Label the water bottle.

Label the hairbrush.

Then – and this is key – show your camper what’s going in the trunk. Confidence grows when kids understand what to expect. Walking through their packed items builds ownership and independence. This month can feel busy. Break it into small steps. One drawer at a time.

June: It’s Actually Happening

June hits differently. The trunks are out. The countdown is real. The energy shifts from prep to possibility.

This is when you might feel:

“How did we get here so fast?”

“Are they really ready?”

“Am I?”

Yes.

Because readiness isn’t about eliminating nerves. It’s about building tools to navigate them.

You’ve organized.

You’ve labeled.

You’ve talked.

You’ve prepared.

And now? It’s time for growth. Camp doesn’t just arrive in June. It builds slowly all year onward – through lists, conversations, and small steps that lead to big transformation. And the best part?

You don’t have to navigate any of it alone. We’ve got your pack. 

About the contributor:

Summer 365 is the leading consulting service created by and for parents, driven by a customized, holistic approach to finding the best summer experience for each child and family. Through in-person visits and meetings with camps and programs, our momboss team of experts have insider knowledge on more than 500 top sleepaway camps and summer programs for children and teens ages 7–18. Our service makes it easy for parents to find whatever they’re looking for – whether it’s traditional or specialty sleepaway camp, community service, performing arts, enrichment, wilderness, or language immersion programs.

This Valentine’s Day, we’re celebrating the love story that keeps on giving: camp. Not just the place, but the people, the moments, the memories, and the magic. The kind of love that smells like lake water and sunscreen, and sounds like chants echoing through the trees.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a lifer, there’s something about camp that just sticks with you. From lake jumps to late-night giggles, in honor of February 14 – here’s 14 reasons why camp is our forever Valentine:

Love letters (yes, the handwritten kind!)

There’s something magical about real mail – even if it’s a crumpled piece of paper that says “For Canteen.” Writing home becomes a quiet ritual that helps campers reflect on their days. And for parents, every note is a little window into the summer experience – misspellings and all.

Camp crushes

The excitement of evening activity? It’s not just about the game. A fresh outfit, a swipe of face paint, and a nervous smile – camp crushes are sweet, innocent, and forever embedded in summer memory.

First friendships that last forever

You may have started out as strangers on bunk beds, but by the end of the week, you’re sharing snacks, secrets, and life dreams. Camp friendships are forged in the fires of shared sunscreen and Color War chants. They’re the kind of bonds that show up in wedding parties years down the line.

Color War butterflies

Whether you’re Red vs. Blue, Green vs. Gold, or Apache all the way – the energy is electric. You’ll never forget the break, the banners, the cheers, and the feeling of belonging to something bigger. It’s where competition meets community in the most unforgettable way.

SING night chills

Even the loudest campers go quiet when the harmonies begin. SING is when emotions rise and tears fall – sometimes from pride, sometimes from just being so full. It’s when you realize camp is so much more than just games and fun.

The way a campfire brings people together

No WiFi, no distractions – just flames, stories, and starry skies. Campfires have a way of slowing time and opening hearts. They’re where laughter and vulnerability live side by side.

Sharing bug spray and socks = real love

You know it’s real when your bunkmate gives you her last pair of clean socks or sprays your back without even being asked. Camp teaches a special kind of generosity – the kind that lives in the little things.

Counselors who just get it

They’re not just in charge – they’re role models, big siblings, hype people, and emotional lifelines. Counselors help campers feel seen, safe, and celebrated. Years later, you’ll still talk about that counselor who made camp magic real for you.

Dance parties in the bunk

No stage, no audience, no judgment – just the best playlist and your people. Whether it’s karaoke, strobe lights made from flashlights, or spontaneous TikTok attempts (without TikTok!), bunk dance parties are pure joy.

Feeling seen for exactly who you are

Camp strips away the pressure to be perfect. Here, being loud, silly, messy, or sensitive is celebrated. Camp is where kids are free to be their full, unfiltered selves – and that’s a kind of love every kid deserves.

The photos that never leave your lock screen

Camp memories aren’t always posed – they’re muddy, laughing, mid-hug, mid-cheer, and so real. The photos say it all. Camp becomes the background of your favorite stories.

The first jump in the lake

It’s freezing. It’s shocking. It’s freedom. That first cannonball or cautious wade is a rite of passage – and a literal plunge into summer.

Hugs that fix everything

Homesick? Lost a game? Just feeling all the feelings? Camp hugs – from friends, from counselors, from someone you just met – are instant comfort.

Falling asleep knowing you can’t wait for tomorrow

Camp days are full, but it’s the nights that make you pause. As you drift off to the sound of crickets and whispers, you’re already dreaming about what tomorrow might hold. That’s camp magic.

Camp is more than a place. It’s a feeling. A forever kind of love. We hope your February is filled with the kind of joy that only camp can bring.

About the contributor:

Summer 365 is the leading consulting service created by and for parents, driven by a customized, holistic approach to finding the best summer experience for each child and family. Through in-person visits and meetings with camps and programs, our momboss team of experts have insider knowledge on more than 500 top sleepaway camps and summer programs for children and teens ages 7–18. Our service makes it easy for parents to find whatever they’re looking for – whether it’s traditional or specialty sleepaway camp, community service, performing arts, enrichment, wilderness, or language immersion programs.

Sleepaway camp is filled with memories, milestones, and magic – and if it’s your child’s first time away, there’s a lot to discover (and even more to love). Inspired by Gretchen Rubin’s joyful lists and written for parents navigating this big moment, here’s an A to Z of what you can expect during your camper’s journey this year. From the small wins to the big feelings, these 26 little reminders are here to guide, ground, and cheer you on – every step of the way.

A – Amazon is about to be your new best friend

Packing lists are real, and Prime is basically a camp counselor, for parents (we will be introducing you to our S365 Amazon Storefront soon – and it really will be your bestie!).

B – Bravery

Being away from home is a big deal – and your campers are braver than they think.

C – Campfires & Color War

Some nights are cozy and warm. Some spark camp-wide energy, spirit, and lifelong rivalries (in the best way!).

D – Dear Mom + Dad letters

They may be short, sweet, and hilariously spelled – but they’re yours to treasure.

E – Embracing new independence

From making the bed to managing friendships, growth is happening.

F – Fourth of July Fireworks

Celebrated with bunkmates who feel like family by week two.

G – Growth you don’t see coming

Happens between archery, rest hour, and pasta night.

H – Homesickness tools

Stuffed animals, photos, routines, and counselors that truly get it.

I – Inside jokes that last forever

Sometimes it’s a chant. Sometimes it’s a shared snack. It always sticks. And only your bunkmates understand. Forever.

J – Jumping right in

Whether it’s the lake or a new skill, trying takes courage.

K – Kind counselors

The real MVPs who make camp feel safe, fun, and magical.

L – Laughing until lights out

The kind of laughter that makes your stomach hurt.

M – Memories to last a lifetime

Even an ordinary Tuesday at camp is one they’ll remember forever.

N – New friendships 

Made over buddy checks, top bunks, and team chants.

O – Outdoor everything

Nature becomes the backdrop for everything – play, rest, wonder.

P – Pack like a champ

Start early. Label everything. Follow the list. You’ll thank yourself later.

Q – Quiet moments

Letters from home, rest hour, and realizing you miss each other – in a good way.

R – Routines that build confidence

Predictability helps campers feel secure (and parents breathe easier).

S – S’mores science

Golden brown perfection requires patience, rotation, and maybe a second try.

T – Trying new things

New food. New friends. New challenges. All of it builds resilience.

U – Unplugging

No screens, no scrolls – just sunshine, connection, and real time together.

V – Victories, big and small

From swimming across the lake to sleeping through the night.

W – Waking up to possibilities

Every single day feels like a new adventure.

X – X marks the spot

For scavenger hunts, hidden hatchets, and summer surprises.

Y – You did it

Camp didn’t just happen to them. They became a camper.

Z – Zipline moments

Heart-racing, unforgettable, and proof that confidence can soar.

About the contributor:

Summer 365 is the leading consulting service created by and for parents, driven by a customized, holistic approach to finding the best summer experience for each child and family. Through in-person visits and meetings with camps and programs, our momboss team of experts have insider knowledge on more than 500 top sleepaway camps and summer programs for children and teens ages 7–18. Our service makes it easy for parents to find whatever they’re looking for – whether it’s traditional or specialty sleepaway camp, community service, performing arts, enrichment, wilderness, or language immersion programs.

A Friendly Guide for New Camp Families

Camp is a world of its own – filled with fresh air, friendship bracelets, color war… and words that might sound like a completely different language to new families.

If this is your first summer, don’t worry – you’re not alone in wondering why your child suddenly can’t stop talking about “OD,” “Fake Breaks,” or how they made a new best friend at the blob. Whether you’re a first-timer or just brushing up, this glossary is your guide to decoding the phrases that make the camp world go round.

Let’s break it down – the Summer 365 way.

Bunks, Beds & Beyond

Bunk: Your child’s cabin or group – typically made up of kids their age, bunk counselors, and plenty of inside jokes.

Bunkmate: A fellow camper your child shares their bunk (and lots of memories!) with.

Mess Hall / Dining Hall: Where campers eat, cheer, and occasionally sing on benches. It’s a lot more than just a place to grab a grilled cheese.

OD (On Duty): The staff member responsible for supervising campers during the “late” hours while others are off-duty. Basically the nighttime MVP.

Traditions, Events & Camp Magic

Color War (or Olympics): A beloved all-camp competition filled with cheering, sports, song, and serious team spirit. Often the highlight of the summer!

Fake Break: A hilarious and dramatic spoof where campers are tricked into thinking a major event (like Color War) is starting… only to find out it’s not. Yet.

Flagpole: Morning and evening gatherings often filled with announcements, songs, and the raising or lowering of the camp flag.

Intercamps: Friendly competitions or meet-ups between different camps – great for showing off team skills and meeting new faces (and even seeing some familiar ones!).

Campfire: A classic gathering often filled with music, skits, s’mores, and reflection. It’s as wholesome as it sounds.

Banquet: A special night to celebrate the summer – often full of traditions, speeches, and many, many emotions.

Daily Life, Activities & Adventures

Rest Hour: A quiet break in the middle of the day for campers to read, write letters, nap, or just chill. (Parents, don’t we all need this?!)

Specialty: A specific activity – think tennis, ceramics, waterskiing, drama, etc. Campers often get to choose their favorites.

The Blob: A giant inflatable water launch pad at many lakefront camps. One camper sits at the end while another jumps on from a platform – launching them into the air and into pure camp joy.

Trip Day: An off-site adventure – think amusement parks, beaches, or minor league baseball games. Always a fan favorite.

Bug Juice: That bright-colored drink served at camp meals. It’s not juice. It’s not bugs. But it’s definitely part of the experience.

Silent Disco / Glow Night / Talent Show:  Special events that vary by camp but live in the memory vault forever.

Canteen: The snack shack. Enough said.

People & Roles

Counselor: The heart and soul of every bunk – part big sibling, part mentor, part dance party leader.

Division Head (or Group Leader): Oversees a group of bunks within a similar age range. Your go-to for questions or updates.

Specialist: A staff member who runs a specific activity area at camp – from waterskiing to ceramics to coding. They’re pros in their field and help campers build skills (and confidence!) in everything from sports to the arts.

Camp Sister/Brother: A buddy or mentor from another age group. Big sister/little sister vibes, minus the sibling rivalry.

Growing Into Greatness

CIT (Counselor in Training): A leadership program for 16–17-year-olds. They’re learning the ropes (literally and figuratively) of being a counselor and role model.

From Camper to Role Model: Many camps offer natural growth opportunities – from helping younger campers to organizing activities. It’s all about stepping up and paying it forward.

Try Something New: Whether it’s a ropes course or stage fright, camp teaches kids to push boundaries and celebrate progress – not perfection.

Extras That Deserve a Shout-Out

Camp Wrist: The ever-growing collection of friendship bracelets worn proudly on one (or both!) wrists. The more, the messier – the better.

Flashlight Time: The few minutes after lights out when campers can whisper, giggle, and bond before the day ends. Pure magic.

Letter Days: The days your child finally writes home! Frame them. Treasure them. Decode them. They’re camp gold.

Campsick: Like homesick, but in reverse. That feeling when camp ends and all you want is to go back.

Camp Magic: Hard to explain but instantly recognizable. It’s in the laughter, the friendships, the s’mores – the intangible something that makes camp unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

Camp has its own way of doing things – and that includes its language. But by the end of the summer, your child will be fluent, and chances are… you will be too.

At Summer 365, we believe camp is a world filled with purpose, joy, and just the right amount of messiness. It’s where kids grow, try new things, and find their voice – even if it’s cheering loudly in the dining hall. And we’re here to guide you every step (and buzzword!) of the way.

About the contributor:

Summer 365 is the leading consulting service created by and for parents, driven by a customized, holistic approach to finding the best summer experience for each child and family. Through in-person visits and meetings with camps and programs, our momboss team of experts have insider knowledge on more than 500 top sleepaway camps and summer programs for children and teens ages 7–18. Our service makes it easy for parents to find whatever they’re looking for – whether it’s traditional or specialty sleepaway camp, community service, performing arts, enrichment, wilderness, or language immersion programs.

High school was full of structure – bells ringing every 45 minutes, assignments with rubrics, and a whole lot of emphasis on grades and résumés. Camp was the opposite. It was chaotic, unscripted, and full of unexpected lessons that, in hindsight, prepared me for life in ways school never did.

1. People See You Differently Without Labels

In high school, people tend to define you by your schedule or your extracurriculars. You’re known as the athlete, the overachiever, the quiet one. At camp, none of that mattered. I wasn’t expected to fit a mold. That change in environment let me figure out who I was without trying to meet other people’s expectations.

2. Being Offline is a Game-Changer

At camp, my phone was off or completely out of sight most of the time. That meant no group chats, no endless scrolling, and no comparison traps. Instead, I had actual conversations, sat in silence, and got comfortable just being where I was. It made me realize how much noise I’d gotten used to – and how valuable it is to disconnect once in a while.

3. Teamwork Looks Different Outside the Classroom

Group projects at school are usually about dividing work and getting it done. At camp, teamwork meant real-time problem-solving – building something together, helping someone through a tough day, or figuring out how to make the most of a rainy afternoon. There were no roles or titles – just a shared goal and a bunch of trial and error.

4. Leadership Isn’t About Being in Charge

At camp, leadership showed up in small moments: helping a homesick camper, stepping up when things weren’t going smoothly, or just being someone others could count on. It wasn’t about being the loudest or most experienced. It was about showing up and doing what needed to be done.

5. Confidence Comes from Doing, Not Just Achieving

In school, confidence is often tied to things like grades or acceptance letters. At camp, it came from doing things I didn’t think I could – leading a group, navigating a hike, solving problems on the fly. No one was handing out awards, but those experiences gave me a quiet kind of confidence that stuck with me.

6. You Need Space to Just Have Fun

Between deadlines, exams, and college applications, high school doesn’t leave much room for just having fun. At camp, fun wasn’t a side activity – it was part of the culture. Playing games, making dumb jokes, getting messy – all of it reminded me that not everything has to be productive to matter.

7. I Was More Ready for College Than I Realized

Camp gave me practice with a lot of the things college requires: living with strangers, being responsible for myself, dealing with uncertainty, and figuring stuff out as I went. It helped me build independence and resilience without me even realizing it. When college started, I didn’t feel completely lost – I’d already learned how to adjust to a new environment and take care of myself away from home.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, high school gave me the foundation – study habits, deadlines, structure – but camp gave me the tools to handle the unpredictable parts of life. It’s where I learned how to work with all kinds of people, step up when it mattered, and stay calm when things didn’t go as planned.

I didn’t come back from camp with a certificate or a grade, but I came back more capable, more self-aware, and more ready for what’s next. That kind of learning doesn’t show up on a transcript – but it shows up everywhere else.

About the contributors:

Izzy Josephs and Leila Saeed started working on this together during their Senior Options time with us last Spring and now they are reflecting back as they are freshmen together at the University of Michigan. Izzy is studying Sports Management and Leila is studying Psychology.