If you’ve ever searched for the perfect sleepaway camp or embarked on finding the right college, you know that both experiences are deeply personal, emotional, and surprisingly similar. Here’s how the two stack up – and what they teach us.
It’s All About the Fit Whether you’re choosing a spirited camp known for its legendary Color War or a liberal arts college that prioritizes small seminar-style classes, the goal is the same: finding the right vibe. Does your child prefer a highly structured environment or the freedom to explore? Do they thrive in a bustling, energetic atmosphere or a smaller, close-knit community? These preferences matter more than any ranking or reputation.
Tours Tell You More Than Websites Ever Could Slick websites and glossy brochures are nice, but nothing compares to stepping onto the grounds. Whether it’s a virtual visit or an in-person tour, being there lets you sense the energy of the place. Are the campers genuinely smiling? Do students seem excited and engaged? These real-life glimpses can reveal more than any promotional material ever will.
There’s Always a “Gut Feeling” You can’t always explain it, but you can feel it. Maybe it’s the view across a peaceful lake or the hum of conversation on a sunlit quad – sometimes, there’s just a spark that says, “This is theplace.” That instinctive reaction is powerful and often a key part of the decision.
Parents Ask All the Questions – Kids Feel All the Feelings Parents tend to zero in on the details: food accommodations, medical staff, and internet access. Meanwhile, kids quietly wonder if they’ll make friends, find their people, and feel like they belong. It’s a delicate balance of logistics and emotions, and both perspectives matter deeply.
FOMO Is Real – But So Is What’s Meant to Be With social media and peer pressure, comparing choices and worrying about missing out is easy. But the truth is, what works for someone else might not be right for your child. The best place is where they can grow, feel accepted, and be themselves.
It’s a Milestone Moment Choosing a sleepaway camp is often a child’s first step toward independence. It sets the stage for future transitions, like heading off to college. Both are monumental moments, not just for the kids, but for the entire family. They mark growth, change, and new chapters.
And Yes – There Will Be Tears Expect a few tears from the anxiety of the search to the emotional goodbyes at drop-off. But also expect pride, resilience, and memories that last a lifetime. These transitions may be challenging, but they’re also beautiful.
Whether you’re packing a duffel bag for camp or decorating a dorm room, the journey is all about helping your child find a place where they can belong, grow, and shine. And really, isn’t that what every parent wants?
About the contributors:
Izzy Josephs is joining us this Spring as a Senior Options Intern from Scarsdale High School. She spent nine summers at Camp Canadensis, one on a Teen Tour to Greece + Italy, and one as a Scarsdale Rec Camp Counselor. Her favorite memories of those summers were making connections to people with different backgrounds and experiences. This fall, she is so excited to be heading off to the University of Michigan to study Sports Management.
Leila Saeed is also joining us this Spring as a Senior Options Intern from Scarsdale High School. She spent five summers at Mohawk Day Camp and participated in Pre-College Programs at Brown University and Emory University. Her favorite part of those experiences was building connections with her fellow campers and classmates over shared interests and activities. This fall, she is so excited to be heading off to the University of Michigan to study Psychology.
By: Jack Schott
When I think about the healthiest environments on the planet, maybe you jump to fancy wellness retreats or high-tech fitness centers. And that would make sense.
But that’s just not where I go.
It goes straight to the sound of cabin doors slamming at 7 AM. Kids racing to the flagpole in small groups, taking in that first batch of sunshine, rocking through the beginning of the day.
Yeah, I’ve got a bold claim here (if you’ve heard me say it before, buckle up, it won’t be the last time):
Camps are the healthiest places on Earth for kids.
This isn’t just wildin’ out summer camp-director rah-rah stuff talking, though I’ve got plenty of that.
It’s what happens when you look at what health experts are recommending for optimal wellbeing and realize – oh, wait a second, that’s just describing a day at camp.
Camp is secretly winning the wellness game in a way that’s basically lapping the competition.
Check it out:
1. Screen time → Green time
Cheesy subtitle? Yeah, but it’s true.
Parents, I see you fighting the good fight against devices at home. The negotiations. The time limits. The inevitable “just five more minutes” that somehow stretch into hours.
And honestly, I’m pretty pro screens.
I love a good binge-able series like the West Wing or the new Wheel of Time, and have been known to rock Fortnite or Minecraft from time-to-time.
In fact, young Jack would have been all over this stuff (even if Pam Schott would have been fighting the same “battle”).
At camp, all that simply… disappears.
Instead of scrolling, kids are swimming, climbing, and laughing with friends. Instead of gaming, they’re playing actual games with their arms, and legs.
Texting or Snapping about life? Nah, they’re living it – in three dimensions, under an open sky (remember that thing?).
Camps have been quietly offering the perfect screentime alternative since before smartphones existed. And they still are without any of the negotiating.
2. The exercise routine (that doesn’t feel like exercise)
When’s the last time your kid did hours of physical activity and begged for more?
Swimming in the morning.
Post-lunch hike.
Full camp Capture the Flag after dinner.
Strength, endurance, coordination, and balance all without a single “exercise routine” in sight.
And no kid is going home being like, “Yo, what a workout!” It’s just what you do at camp. The physical activity is wrapped in layers of the day-to-day.
Oh and another bold claim: One week at camp often delivers more natural movement than a year of PE classes.
3. Real-time social connections in an increasingly disconnected world
Health pros like Peter Attia and Andrew Huberman are now ranking social connection as important as diet and exercise for long-term health.
At camp, children develop what I might call “connection fitness.” (Ok, I just started to call it that, but it sounds good so we’re going to stick with it).
They learn to navigate disagreements face-to-face. They practice reading emotions by actually seeing them play out on their friends’ faces. They experience the vulnerability of being (maybe a little) homesick and the courage to know it’s all okay.
No algorithm curating these interactions. No delete button or filter. Just real-time connection happening all day long.
4. Sleep. Yeah, kids sleep.
After days filled with sunshine, swimming, and non-stop activity, kids experience what I can only describe as “the good tired.”
Not the wired, overstimulated exhaustion that comes from too much of what they get all day long, all year long, but the deeply satisfying fatigue of a body that’s just lived its best life.
By the time a counselor calls “lights out,” most campers are already halfway to dreamland. The consistency of camp schedules – same wake-up time, same meal times, same bedtime – creates the perfect conditions for quality sleep.
Just Google what experts say about optimal sleep conditions and it’s basically the camp schedule.
And unlike home, there’s no midnight scrolling or 2 AM YouTube rabbit holes. Just crickets and occasionally, a counselor reminding everyone it’s really time to stop whispering now.
5. Nature’s secret hack: just being outside
The research is overwhelming: time in nature reduces stress hormones, improves mood, boosts immune function, and even enhances creativity. The list is way longer than this, but you get the point.
Morning dew on their sneaks, afternoon sun on the shoulders, and evening stars (that you can actually see) overhead. Kids pay attention to weather patterns in all the ways that matter, identify plants, navigate terrain, hang out outside.
This full-on immersion in the natural world resets their nervous systems in ways we’re only beginning to understand scientifically.
But camp pros have seen the effects for generations: children who arrive tense and distracted almost immediately soften, focus, and come alive in new ways.
Why this matters
Look, anxiety, depression, and physical health challenges among young people aren’t exactly trending in the right direction.
Camps offer a complete wellness reset.
For a few weeks each summer, your child rocks out in an environment where healthy habits aren’t a struggle – they’re built in.
Natural movement. Easy connections. Deep sleep. Nature doing its thing.
And those habits and memories they build at camp don’t just stay at camp. They become reference points for what healthy living feels like → joyful, connected, and full of adventure.
So next time an expert recommends more outdoor time, better sleep routines, increased physical activity, and richer social connections – you can just be like, “All good, we’ve got camp for that.”
You got this!
About the contributor:
Jack Schott is in charge of Family Engagement & Camper Support and brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for camp culture to Kenwood & Evergreen. As one of the most sought-after staff trainers and camp consultants in the industry, Jack has spent years helping camps across the country build stronger communities and create meaningful experiences for kids. Jack joined K&E to focus on Family Engagement & Camper Support, ensuring that every child feels seen, supported, and empowered throughout their camp journey.
Our Camper of the Week is none other than Bari Margolis, who is receiving the SCOPE Leadership Award at the 2025 SCOPE Benefit in NYC on April 9th. The SCOPE Leadership Award recognizes a member of either the SCOPE Associate Board or Junior Leadership Council who demonstrates a strong commitment to improving the lives of children by awareness and fundraising in their efforts to provide access to overnight summer camp opportunities for children of low-income families and/or under-resourced communities through their support of SCOPE. Bari is being recognized with the 2025 SCOPE Leadership Award for her steadfast commitment to expanding access to summer camp experiences for all children. As Chair of the SCOPE Associate Board, Bari has inspired a new generation of leaders to be part of SCOPE’s mission, fostering growth and engagement within the organization. Her passion, vision, volunteerism, and tireless advocacy have helped ensure that SCOPE continues to open doors of opportunity for countless children nationwide. This is her story.
By: Bari Margolis
On a warm summer day in June 2005, I boarded a coach bus to Camp Blue Ridge in Wayne County, PA, with my twin sister by my side. Little did I know, this would be the first day of the rest of my life.
My first summer away from home wasn’t exactly the picture-perfect experience I had imagined. There were phone calls home from the head counselor, a strep throat diagnosis, and the unfortunate reputation of being the “problem camper” in my bunk. But outside of the bunk, I thrived—jumping in the lake, playing sports, singing, and cheering. There was simply nothing better. Camp quickly became my second home, a place where I could explore who I was, build resilience, and gain confidence in a way that wouldn’t have been possible anywhere else.
Determined to turn things around, I entered my second summer with a fresh start in a new bunk. This was where I found my fit, and over the next six summers, my reputation evolved from “problem camper” to an all-around camper. I earned numerous “B” awards (Camper of the Week), led my age group’s sing, and eventually was chosen as the Upper Senior Chief of the 2011 Blue Journey. This experience not only helped shape the person I am today but also led to a historic moment—leading one half of the camp while my twin sister led the other, making us the first siblings to compete against each other in Camp Blue Ridge Color War history. This leadership opportunity helped me discover my voice, my passion for bringing people together, and my ability to inspire those around me.
Then came the summer of 2012, a surprising detour in my camp routine. Instead of heading straight back to my happy place, I found myself unpacking at Cornell University for a four-week college course. My parents had always emphasized the importance of both sleepaway camp and academic summer programs before college, believing they were key to a successful transition. So, we struck a deal: if I completed the Cornell Summer Program, I could return to camp for the second half of the summer—and every summer for the rest of my life. Little did they know how seriously I would take that agreement.
Six years later, as a college graduate, I was introduced to Camp Westmontand received the job offer of a lifetime. Just 25 minutes down the road from my childhood summer home, Camp Westmont was new to me at the time, but now, seven years later, I can’t imagine a life without it.
Today, as an Assistant Director at Westmont, I handle everything from staffing to programming to trips, camper management, and more. While camp is no longer just sunshine and rainbows like it was when I was a camper, I now have the privilege of creating that magic for every child who walks through Westmont’s gates. I live for the moments when I watch a camper thrive after months of conversations with them and their parents, when I tour a prospective family knowing they’re about to make the best decision for their child, or when I help orchestrate a Color War break that campers will tell their own kids about someday. These are the moments that make camp truly irreplaceable.
Through my leadership role, I have gained an even deeper understanding of the profound impact summer camp has on a child’s growth. Camp fosters independence, resilience, and social-emotional development in ways that traditional education cannot. It provides a unique space for kids to unplug, connect face-to-face, and develop lifelong skills in teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. I have seen firsthand how children transform over the course of a summer—how the shy, homesick camper turns into the confident Color War captain, how friendships formed at camp last a lifetime, and how the sense of community created within camp walls extends far beyond the summer months.
Camp is more than just a summer experience—it’s a foundation for life. I get to play a role in providing an environment where children build confidence, gain independence, forge lifelong friendships, and create memories that shape who they are. I get to shine a spotlight on every camper, making them feel special and ensuring they feel a true sense of belonging.
On April 9th, the spotlight I so proudly shine on others will be turned onto me as I receive the 2025 SCOPE Leadership Award. This honor is incredibly meaningful to me because SCOPE’s mission aligns so deeply with my own beliefs about the power of camp. SCOPE provides children from underserved communities with the opportunity to experience the magic of summer camp, and I am proud to play a role in making that possible. Through my time at Westmont, I’ve become an active member of the SCOPE Associate Board, serving as the Events Chair and now the Associate Board Chair. I’ve had the honor of helping transform our fundraising efforts—from an event that raised $7,000 to one that now brings in $28,000. I’ve helped launch new initiatives like Pickleball4SCOPE, and this fiscal year, we’ve raised over $65,000 to give even more campers their own moment in the spotlight.
To me, receiving the SCOPE Leadership Award is not just a personal achievement—it’s a celebration of the countless individuals who believe, like I do, that every child deserves the chance to experience the life-changing power of camp. It is a testament to the impact we can have when we come together to provide opportunities for the next generation of campers.
Twenty summers later, I can wholeheartedly say that camp has shaped me into the leader I am today. It has taught me how to stand up for what I believe in, given me confidence in every aspect of my life, helped me build lifelong friendships, and opened doors I never imagined possible. Camp isn’t just a place; it’s a part of me—and I am forever grateful for the journey it has taken me on.
Note from the editor:
Congratulations Bari! The Summer 365 Team is so proud of all of your accomplishments and how much you do to shine that camp magic on all around you. We can’t wait to watch you on April 9th receiving the 2025 SCOPE Leadership Award.
We are also proud to support SCOPE through our GIVE SUM Initiative. GIVE SUMis our passion in action – a special scholarship fund for families who would otherwise not be able to afford to send their children to camp. For every child that we help place in one of our recommended camps or programs, we will donate a portion of each commission we receive into GIVE SUM.
By: Michael Etra
Choosing the right summer camp for your child is a significant decision. Camps understand the importance of making informed choices and are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where campers feel safe and supported. As you prepare for the summer camp season, it’s crucial to connect with your camp directors and ask the right questions to ensure that both you and your child feel confident about the upcoming experience.
Why Asking Questions Matters
Before your visit (and of course prior to sending your child off to camp!), having candid conversations with camp directors can alleviate concerns and provide peace of mind for both you and your child! These discussions help you understand the camp’s philosophy, safety protocols, and specific accommodations available for your child, even before the tour. A well-informed parent is a more confident one!
Key Questions to Ask
Here’s a list of helpful questions to guide your conversation with Directors, even before your tour:
1. How does Camp ______ build a sense of community among campers?
Inquire about how the camp encourages friendships and teamwork among campers. For example, are activities and meal tables arranged by the division at large or only by bunk? How do different age groups interact with one another? How are new campers incorporated with returning campers? What is the camp’s philosophy on boys and girls spending time together? How often do siblings and cousins see each other?
2. Can you describe the daily schedule and activities?
Understanding the daily routine at camp can help you prepare your child for what to expect. Ask about the types of activities offered, how they are structured, and whether there is time for free play and exploration. Many camps feature a diverse array of intentional programming that promotes social-emotional learning and skill development. It’s also important to understand whether a camp features elective-based programming and in what capacity.
3. What is the camper-to-staff ratio?
Knowing the camper-to-staff ratio can help you assess the level of attention your child will receive. The structure should promote an unmatched sense of personal attention for the campers.
4. How is the camp structured to promote wellness?
Inquire about safety measures, including the qualifications of the medical staff and how they handle health concerns. Who runs the Health Center? How many doctors and nurses are on site? In what situations would the Health Center contact you as a parent? During the tour, you can and should visit the Health Center. Understanding the camp’s health and safety protocols can give you confidence that your child is in good hands.
5. What accommodations can be made for dietary restrictions?
Ask about the types of accommodations available for allergies, special diets, or specific preferences. This question is essential for ensuring that your child feels comfortable and can enjoy meals with their peers.
Preparing for Your Camp Tour
When you visit camps, it’s a fantastic opportunity to get a feel for what makes each camp unique and meet the leadership team behind your child’s camp experience. Here are some tips for making the most of your visit:
Bring a List of Questions
It’s important to know about what your family is looking for in a summer camp. For the tour itself, prepare a list of questions in advance that are important to you and your child. This will help ensure you cover all your concerns during the tour and help you remember important details later.
Take Notes
Bring a notebook to jot down notes during your conversations with the camp directors. This way, you’ll have a record of the information shared, making it easier to discuss your thoughts with your child later.
Observe the Camp Environment & the Campers
Are the campers engaged? Is the staff interacting with them? Are you feeling the overall “camp spirit”? Also, take note of the camp facilities including the cleanliness of the cabins & bathrooms, dining areas, and activity spaces.
Engage with the Staff
Make sure your Tour Director introduces you to some of the Group Leaders, Program Heads and other key staff members. These adults comprise the backbone of a camp’s childcare capabilities.
Your Summer Adventure Awaits!
As you prepare for your child’s summer camp experience, remember that asking the right questions is key to feeling confident in your choice. Camps really are committed to creating a safe, supportive, and fun environment where campers can thrive. By engaging with directors and getting answers to your questions, you’ll be taking the first steps toward a fantastic summer adventure.
About the contributor:
Michael Etra is the Director of Camp Pontiac, a premier, family-owned and operated coed sleepaway summer camp that offers an unparalleled camper and staff experience. With top-tier facilities, expert coaching and a nurturing staff, Pontiac provides a well-rounded program featuring diverse activities, elite sports, and exclusive trips designed to promote growth, self-confidence, independence and lifelong friendships. After a successful career as an attorney, Michael followed his heart and joined his family in running Camp Pontiac full-time. What brings him the most pride is seeing campers grow up at Pontiac, transforming summer after summer into resilient, self-assured young adults. At Camp Pontiac, you’re not just part of the summer — you’re Always a Friend.
By: Page Fairman Rich
I slowed the motorboat down as we approached the next sailboat. As we pulled up alongside it, I reminded campers to be sure to maintain three points of contact as they moved from the launch into their sailboat for the morning. It was early in the season, so this day marked the first time some of the campers had come to Sailing that summer. For Addie, a new 14 year old camper, it was far more than that. She had grown up in a city, never having the opportunity to do anything in or on a lake. As she focused on maintaining those ever important three points of contact, I could see that she was terrified. I asked her if she was okay. She slowly raised her head, looked me straight in the eye, and said “I’ve got this.” She then proceeded to climb into the sailboat with a counselor and other campers. At the end of the period, she returned to shore elated by the experience, complete with newfound knowledge about parts of boats and the joy of moving across the water. Over the next few weeks, she returned to Sailing, and she also ventured out on the water at Canoeing. By the end of the summer, she had developed a passion for canoeing that would inspire her to focus her energy on acquiring even more skills and experience as a canoeist the following summer.
“I’ve Got This” moments happen all over camp, all summer long, as campers find themselves empowered to try new things. For some, that means navigating living with others in a tent, or perhaps even remembering to brush her teeth and hair every day! Others challenge themselves to try an activity that is entirely new to them, or to add to their skills in an activity they tried in a previous summer. Camp gives campers the support they need to take safe risks, knowing that fellow campers and counselors are there to support them, cheering them on as they acquire new skills. In this environment, campers gain confidence that will carry them long beyond their days on our shores. They learn to believe in their own ability to push themselves to new heights in activities, but also in developing solid friendships, in their ability to make decisions, and in their belief in themselves. Whether your camper’s “I’ve Got This” moment comes through learning to be a good friend, helping to take care of her tent, or in learning how to sail, we are confident that she will recall these moments in the years to come as those pivotal opportunities at camp that helped her become a stronger, more confident person.
I’ve Got This.
About the contributor:
Page is the Director of Communications and Marketing at Alford Lake Camp. Page has held many positions at ALC including Assistant to the Directors, Head of Program, Head of Sailing, Swimming and Waterfront – and before that was a camper, CT and counselor! She is committed to continuing ALC’s tradition of providing each camper and counselor with opportunities for growth and fun. Her favorite spot at camp is out sailing on the lake!
We’re kicking off the month of February with all the things we LOVE, one of which is our partner camp and friends at Brant Lake Sports Academy. Nestled in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, BLSA is a unique all girls summer experience in a traditional camp environment where expert sports coaching is combined with a deep tradition of caring for kids and classic camp fun. Girls learn teamwork, self-confidence, perseverance, and self-discipline. They develop a positive self-image and a respect for their inherent talents, strengths, and abilities. And let’s be honest women’s sports are having a moment! So it’s no surprise BLSA has grown their program for summer 2025.
New this year, BLSA has expanded their age range and is introducing Junior Camp with two dedicated sessions (11 and 12 days) just for girls who have completed 2nd through 5th grade. Their junior campers will enjoy a well-rounded, structured program of activities that provides a strong foundation for their future years at BLSA. These new sessions focused on younger campers build on the evergreen Senior Camp session (3 weeks) for girls who have completed 6th through 10th grades.
We got to chat with Rachel Milim, the Director at Brant Lake Sports Academy for a Rapid Fire Round of 20 Questions. Check out what we got to know about the ins + outs of what makes BLSA so special:
What’s the first thing campers do when they arrive at Brant Lake Sports Academy?
After giving their friends big hugs, they run to their bunks to pick out their bed for the next few weeks.
What’s the campers most fave spot to hang out at camp?
Chill vibes down at the lake – IYKYK!
If BLSA had a signature catchphrase, slogan, or hashtag – what would it be?
#itscooltobeatryhard #todayisagooddayforagreatday
What sport brings out the most competition at camp?
Anything green and gray related – The girls are the best competitors in camp!
What is the most underrated activity there that every camper should try?
My favorite would be street hockey.
How would you describe the camp spirit in 3 words?
Camaraderie, teamwork, adventure
What’s the best meal in the dining hall?
I absolutely LOVE Gyro night, but if you’re a camper, you’re going with PASTA, PASTA, PASTA!
What is the must have item for your campers to pack for camp?
Anything Green or Gray!
If BLSA had an official soundtrack – what song would have to be on it?
Party in the USA – Miley Cyrus or Run the World – Beyonce
What’s the best way to spend a rainy day at camp?
Basketball Kickball (BBK!) in the field house, dodgeball in the Arena, bracelets on the bead porch at Arts and Crafts or performing a lip sync competition with your bunk.
Who has the most legendary half court shot at camp?
Richie G of course! IYKYK.
What is the one camp tradition that every camper looks forward to?
GREEN AND GRAY! Aka color war 🙂
What is the biggest lesson campers take home with them?
The most confident athletes are the multiport athletes who aren’t afraid to give everything 110%!
What’s a little-known fact about BLSA you want people to know?
You don’t have to be the greatest athlete; you just have to love to play.
If you had to pick one word that alumni would use to describe camp – what would it be?
Impactful
What is the best part about being a camper there?
You get to meet other incredible girls who share the same passion for sports and life.
If you had a mascot – what would it be?
Chloe and I are already enough. We don’t need a mascot!
How do you know you’ve truly become a BLSA camper?
It’s coming home and finding yourself trying out for a new sport you had never played prior to arriving at camp. It’s finding yourself pushing your limits, taking on new challenges, and encouraging teammates to do the same. It’s counting down the minutes until you can go back to camp and do it all over again.
What’s your favorite time of day at camp?
My favorite time of day is evening activity. I get to see girls out of their sports comfort zone and getting into the spirit of traditional camp activities!
The most popular sport at camp in Summer 2024 was? and what do you think it will be in 2025? (ok 21 questions!)
It’s close between volleyball and flag football. If the weather is perfect this summer, my guess is it will be our water sports. Our campers love waterskiing, wakeboarding and wake surfing. They love trying sports they don’t typically get to do at home.
Teens want to travel where it’s HOT – not just HOT in temperature… HOT in popularity! Whether this is your first summer joining a travel program after camp or you’re a seasoned explorer, it’s always exciting to choose the destination for your next adventure!
Some parents express to us that they’ve traveled a lot as a family already so they’re looking for somewhere new that their teen hasn’t been before. The good news is that with 25 teen travel destinations to choose from, the world is basically your oyster. As the experts in teen travel with 43 years of experience, we are excited to share these HOT destinations for summer 2025:
1. Japan – Pick up any travel magazine or talk to any travel agent and they’ll tell you Japan is the hottest ticket in town. It is the epicenter of where ancient meets modern and tranquil temples meet vibrant city centers. In today’s tech driven world, it’s an incredible place to explore cutting-edge advancements in STEM through a variety of interactive site visits, such as the JAXA Tsukuba Space Center and the Maglev Exhibition Center. From sushi making and sumo-wrestling demonstrations, to whitewater rafting, it’s a MUST GO right now.
2. Greece – Greece is the word! We’d be remiss not to have this incredible country high up on the list given that we’ve already sold out most departure dates. It is chock full of beautiful beaches, cultural landmarks, stunning coastal views, ancient Greek mythology, welcoming local residents, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine. There is so much to do from trying an introductory SCUBA dive off the coast of Naxos to cooking an authentic meal and exploring off the beaten path stops like Lake Plastrias in Meteora. Some might say it’s the PERFECT summer destination!
3. Hawaii – There are so many ways for teens to experience this dream destination… from outrigger canoeing, surfing, and river tubing to volunteering and helping protect sea turtles and learning about environmental sustainability – teens love exploring the beautiful island landscapes of Maui, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island! Hawaiian culture is deep rooted in Aloha, meaning love and peace, and it shows in the connections our groups leave this wondrous state with, their new Ohana.
4. Costa Rica – If you haven’t gotten a taste of the Pura Vida lifestyle yet, you’re missing out! There are many good reasons this Central American country is considered a hot destination. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities, shadowing medical professionals, protecting sea turtles (yes, more sea turtles!), running day camps and providing infrastructure support – teens can help make a difference and earn up to 70 community service hours. Also, the locals are warm and welcoming and its beautiful and varied landscapes offer so much variety! Surfing, ziplining, catamaran snorkel cruises, dance lessons – each itinerary offers so much adventure and FUN! Not to mention, for families in North America, the proximity is ideal.
5. Spain – Viva España! There are ample landscapes, thrilling activities and cultural aspects for teens to explore! Luckily, high schoolers don’t have to wait until college to study abroad in Barcelona. It is the ideal city for academic enrichment and college preparation, with its rare charm offering the perfect combination of thriving metropolis and Mediterranean beach town; New York meets Miami if you will. Spain is also the ideal destination for an immersive language experience! Instead of getting to know one city very well, you can gallivant around the country with like-minded teens interacting with locals and practicing your Spanish daily. No hablas Español? No problemo! You’ll still soak up the culture simply by traveling on an adventure program.
The truth is you can’t go wrong! For teens traveling with like-minded peers, with the support of warm and caring leaders – the real impact is the new friendships formed. Sure, it helps to be somewhere new and exciting! Each destination is special in its own way!
About the contributor:
Lindsay runs the WCC Mamaroneck, NY office. She helps families choose the program that is the best fit for them, interviews and hires talented summer leaders, supports programs on the road, manages their summer communication center, and is part of their safety + risk management team. Like so many others at Westcoast Connection, she shares a strong passion for both camp and travel.
By: Nikki Zenkel Grossman
For Camp Directors, the arrival of the New Year signals one thing: camp is just around the corner! While preparing for camp can feel overwhelming — shopping, packing, filling out forms, and getting both your child (and yourself) ready for time away from home—it doesn’t have to be. By starting early and seeking guidance from your Camp Director(s) and your fave camp advisors at Summer 365, the entire process can be made smooth and manageable.
Read the Parent Handbook
My first piece of advice to parents—new or returning—is to read the Parent Handbook. While it may be lengthy, it’s worth your time, especially to learn about updates or changes from the prior year. Camp Directors work hard to make the handbook clear and informative. It will answer most of your questions, help you stay on top of your preparations AND save you time and stress later on.
Review the Packing List
I’ve heard some parents say, “Packing for camp is like my Super Bowl”—they absolutely love it! Others dread filling 80-pound duffels weeks before camp begins. Regardless of whether you love or loathe the packing process, it’s best to stick to the list! Like the Parent Handbook, the Packing List is updated and streamlined every year. Camps curate their packing lists to include only necessary items. They do so to control costs and preserve precious cabin space by limiting extra “stuff” that can quickly become a burden. The process can be simple, especially at “uniform camps”. New campers order a “fit kit” from their camps clothing provider to ensure proper sizing. Once sizing is confirmed, the order is easily fulfilled online. Returning campers should check the fit of the past summer’s clothing and order what is needed.
One important packing rule: everything must be labeled—socks, underwear, cleats, shin guards, you name it, you label it! Many clothing providers offer sewn-in iron-on labeling. Label stickers also work for many items as do indelible markers.
Be sure to involve your child in the packing process. Let your child pick out the stationery to be used to write letters, the squishmallows or loveys they want to bring, and other personal items. This gets them excited for camp and gives them a sense of ownership and comfort when they arrive and settle in with the items they’ve chosen.
Complete Camp Forms On Time
Most camps send out forms after the New Year (check your inbox!). Medical, transportation, baggage, bunk request, and activity preference forms all must be completed. These enable us to care for and support every camper. Tackle the forms early! Schedule the physical, confirm travel plans and set aside a quiet morning to power through them. They are crucial for the Camp Directors, Medical, and Operations teams, and the sooner we receive them, the sooner we can address questions or concerns.
Speak with the Camp Director
Camp Directors spend much of the off-season visiting current and prospective campers, building familiarity and comfort before camp begins. These face-to-face interactions help your child connect with their “summer parents.” It also eases parental anxiety knowing that there’s a trusted person your child can turn to. If an in-person meeting isn’t possible, consider a Zoom call to ease pre-camp jitters. All of this helps to foster a sense of connection and trust before camp begins.
Connect with Other Campers
Soon after the New Year is a great time to start building enthusiasm for camp friendships. Many camps offer pen pal or “big sister/big brother” programs, which pair new and veteran campers. Each camp does things a little bit differently, but in most cases the veteran campers write letters, Facetime, and even organize in-person meetups. Many camps also host winter and spring meetups. These can range from casual gatherings at an ice cream shop to fun outings like bowling. These are wonderful opportunities for your child to meet and start forming friendships with other campers. Encourage your child to attend – these events will spark excitement and ensure there will be friendly faces on the first day of camp.
Prepare Your Child for Camp
The final step has arrived! You’ve read the handbook, reviewed the packing list, and started organizing your duffels. You’ve met other campers, staff, and parents. Now it’s time to focus on preparing your child for camp. This is the perfect opportunity to set achievable goals together that will boost their confidence.
For younger campers, especially those leaving home for the first time, let them practice simple tasks they’ll be responsible for at camp. Bedtime routines are a good place to start. Encourage your child to brush teeth and wash hair without your help (if they don’t do so already!). Teach them to make the bed and then let them do it by themself. With your support and encouragement, these small successes will build confidence.
As summer approaches, new emotions may surface, and your child may express nervousness or worry about camp. These feelings are completely normal. The best way to respond is to have open conversations in which you allow your child to express themselves and you offer support without trying to solve the problems for them. This will help your child build the independence they will rely on at camp.
We recommend all new camp families read Homesick and Happy by Michael Thompson. The book’s central message is that it’s okay for your child to feel homesick while still having fun – a powerful reminder that time away from parents can be crucial for personal growth. We send all new camp families a copy of this in early Spring and truly feel it’s a must read – and can be found easily on Amazon if you want to check it out.
In summary, it’s the New Year, here’s what you can do over the next few months to prepare for the BEST SUMMER EVER:
Prepare for camp together: Let your child help pack and choose what to bring to camp.
Start those camp forms early!
Help connect your child to the people that will be at camp with them including Head Staff so they feel at ease knowing they have someone to turn to.
Encourage your child to share their feelings, whether anxiety or excitement. Help them express themself and build independence.
There are less than 6 months until camp starts – get ready, because the fun has just begun!
About the contributor:
Nikki 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.
