There are moments in life that feel ordinary while they’re happening, but end up changing everything. For both of us, one of those moments was stepping onto a bus headed to sleepaway camp for the first time.
Sammy was on her way to Camp Wicosuta in New Hampshire, clutching a duffel bag that somehow felt bigger than she was. Samara was headed to Camp Young Judaea, trying not to let anyone see just how nervous she felt. Neither of us knew it then, but those bus rides would become the beginning of some of the most important years of our lives.
Today we’re 17 years old, and when we think about the girls who stepped onto those buses for the first time, it’s hard to believe they’re us.
Not because we’ve become completely different people. But because camp changed us in ways we never expected. The first-year campers we once were spent a lot of time worrying.
Would we make friends?
Would our bunkmates like us?
Would we miss home too much?
Would we fit in?
Did we pack enough Soffe shorts?
Every new activity felt intimidating. Every social situation felt high stakes. We were convinced everyone else knew exactly what they were doing while we were just trying to keep up. But camp has a funny way of helping you grow without realizing it’s happening.
One summer becomes two.
Two become five.
And suddenly you’ve spent almost half your life returning to the same place every June.
You stop being the youngest camper at camp and become one of the older campers. The one who knows the traditions. The one who knows the songs. The one helping someone else through the same nerves you once felt yourself. You go from being homesick to helping another camper through her homesickness. You stop worrying about whether you belong and start realizing camp is one of the places where you belong most.
At Wicosuta, Sammy learned that confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build. It comes from trying things you’re not sure you’ll be good at. It comes from speaking up, performing in front of people, competing, failing, trying again, and realizing that being brave doesn’t mean you’re not scared. It means doing it anyway.
At Young Judaea, Samara learned independence. Camp became one of the first places where she could figure out who she was outside of school, outside of expectations, and outside of what everyone already thought they knew about her. Every summer offered another chance to become a little more herself.
And somehow, year after year, camp became more than just a place.
It became friendships that survived long winters apart. It became traditions that marked the passing of time and people who knew every version of us. Some of our camp friends remember us when we were shy. Some remember us when we were awkward. Some remember us when we thought we knew everything. They watched us grow up in real time. And we watched them grow up too.
Looking back now, one of the most surprising things about camp isn’t how much fun we had. It’s how much we changed. The little lessons became the big lessons. Learning how to solve problems on our own and how to live with people who are different from us. Learning how to be resilient when things don’t go according to plan and that confidence comes from experience, not perfection. Learning that some of the best moments happen when nobody is trying to create them.
When we were younger, we thought camp was about activities, Color War, campfires, songs, and traditions. And it was. But it was also about becoming.
Becoming stronger. Becoming more independent. Becoming more resilient. Becoming more comfortable with who we are.
Now, as we prepare for whatever comes next, we’re grateful for every version of ourselves that camp helped create.
The nervous little girls stepping onto those buses had no idea who they would become. They couldn’t imagine the friendships they’d build. The memories they’d collect. The confidence they’d gain. They definitely couldn’t imagine the people writing this today. But if we could go back and tell those girls one thing, it would be this:
You’re about to grow in ways you can’t see yet.
You’re about to discover strengths you don’t know you have.
And one day, years from now, you’ll look back and realize that getting on that bus was one of the best decisions you ever made.
The version of us that stepped on those buses wouldn’t recognize the version of us writing this.
But we think they’d be proud.
About the contributors:
Samara Feuerstein and Sammy Goldstein have been working with us this Spring for their Senior Options. They are confident all the skills they learned at their summers at camp has prepared them for the next step as they are both heading to college this Fall. Samara will be going to Syracuse University to study Social Work and Sammy is heading to The Ohio State University to study Hospitality Management. We’re so excited for them and wish them the best of luck!
There’s something special about camp properties with history. The kind where generations of campers have learned to sail, raced down bunk lines for evening activities, and spent summer nights around campfires under the Maine sky.
Camp Crescent Cove, located on Crescent Lake in Raymond, Maine, is one of those places.
While Crescent Cove itself is newer to the camp world, the spirit of camp on this property runs deep. Directors Jason and Nicole Feig have thoughtfully reimagined a longtime camp property, blending the timeless traditions families love with modern programming and intentional support designed for today’s campers.
The result is a camp that feels both fresh and familiar. Rooted in connection, confidence, community, and the kind of unplugged childhood so many families are searching for right now.
Get to Know Crescent Cove
At Crescent Cove, camp life centers around the outdoors and meaningful connection. Campers eat meals together outside by the lake under a 100-year-old oak tree, spend their days moving between the waterfront and activity areas, and build friendships without the constant presence of screens and technology.
The setting itself feels quintessentially Maine. A private lake. A sandy beach. Pine trees lining the shoreline. Days spent in and around the water. The kind of environment that immediately slows kids down in the best possible way.
At the same time, Crescent Cove offers a thoughtfully modern camp experience with more than 30 activities for campers to explore. Programming includes athletics, performing arts, outdoor adventure, animal care, golf, pickleball, and a premier English huntseat horseback riding program that anchors their one-week Toppers intensive for serious riders.
The schedule balances structure with choice. Campers participate in core activities with their bunk while also selecting electives based on their interests. Younger campers benefit from more guidance and routine, while older campers gain additional independence and autonomy throughout the summer.
It is a model designed to help campers feel both supported and empowered. Kids are encouraged to try new things, step outside their comfort zones, and discover new interests in an environment where they feel safe doing so.
Built for Today’s Families
One of the things we appreciate most about Crescent Cove is how thoughtfully it has been designed for modern families.
Today’s childhood looks very different than it did even ten years ago. Kids are growing up with constant stimulation, packed schedules, and endless digital connection. Many parents are looking for opportunities to give their children something that feels increasingly rare: time outdoors, real friendships, independence, and space to simply be kids.
That’s exactly what Crescent Cove offers.
No phones in the bunks. Days spent outside. Real conversations. Real friendships. Time to build confidence naturally through experience instead of performance.
Campers spend their days swimming, riding horses, creating in the arts studios, playing games with bunkmates, and ending evenings around campfires instead of screens. Friendships form in the unhurried, authentic way camp friendships often do.
At the same time, the camp understands the balance parents are looking for. Families receive regular communication through CampMinder photos and emails, and scheduled parent-camper Zoom calls are built into each session to help support younger and first-time campers.
It feels intentional, thoughtful, and realistic for the way families navigate camp today.
Tradition, Reimagined
What makes Crescent Cove especially compelling is the way it blends classic camp traditions with a fresh, modern approach.
There are the timeless camp moments families hope for: Friday night showcases, campfires, camper birthdays celebrated by the entire camp, big brother and big sister mentorship programs, and the kind of silly, joyful traditions that become part of family storytelling for years to come.
There is also a strong focus on helping new campers transition comfortably into camp life. A dedicated orientation period, intentional social support, and flexible session options help make camp feel approachable for first-time families.
For parents who may not feel ready to commit to a full summer right away, Crescent Cove offers both two-week and 3.5-week sessions. The camp community itself is diverse, drawing campers from across the country and internationally, creating opportunities for kids to meet peers outside of their everyday circles.
At its core, Crescent Cove feels grounded in the values that matter most. Confidence. Compassion. Community. Kindness.
And perhaps most importantly, campers leave feeling known.
Why This Matters Right Now
More and more, families are looking for a summer experience that allows kids to slow down, unplug, and reconnect with themselves and others.
They want their children to spend time outside. To build confidence. To make friendships that exist beyond school and social media. To feel supported by caring adults and connected to a community that sees them for who they are.
That’s the kind of experience Crescent Cove is intentionally building on a piece of Maine shoreline that has been helping kids grow for generations.
It’s a new camp with an old camp soul. And from where we’re sitting, that feels like a pretty special combination.
About the contributors:
Nicole and Jason Feig are the husband-and-wife team (and parents of three girls!) behind Camp Crescent Cove. They followed their passion of impacting kids’ lives and built The Cove. It’s a warm, family-focused community where kids can truly be themselves while unplugged, outdoors, and surrounded by kindness. Their favorite part? Watching campers grow into their best selves summer after summer. They truly see camp as a partnership and they’ll be right there alongside families helping make the transition smooth and meaningful.
Someone once told us that when their heart starts beating really fast before something big, they call it their “inner applause.” Their body cheering them on. And we haven’t stopped thinking about it since. Because every spring, as camp season approaches, the nerves begin to surface.
The questions.
The clinginess.
The sudden, “Wait… what if I don’t want to go?”
And sometimes – surprisingly – the second summer feels even bigger than the first.
Now they know what drop-off feels like.
They remember that first night in the bunk.
They remember missing home before friendships fully clicked.
Of course, their heart beats faster.
But what if that doesn’t mean something is wrong?
Homesickness Isn’t a Warning Sign
When kids say they’re nervous, or when that lump shows up in their throat, it’s easy for parents to panic quietly.
Is camp still the right choice?
Are they not ready?
Did we push too hard?
But homesickness doesn’t mean something is wrong.
It means they feel deeply connected.
It means home is safe and loved.
It means attachment is strong.
Missing home isn’t a red flag. It’s proof of love.
And bravery doesn’t mean they feel calm.
It means they keep going even when it feels big.
Why the Second Summer Can Feel Harder
The first summer is unknown.
The second summer carries memory.
Memory can make things feel bigger.
They know what that stretch feels like before the fun takes over.
They remember the growing pains.
That doesn’t mean camp isn’t right for them.
It means they’re about to grow again.
And growing stretches.
The Pep Talks That Actually Help
Before camp, our instinct is often to eliminate the nerves.
But that’s not the goal.
The goal is to give them language for what they’re feeling.
Instead of:
“Don’t be nervous.”
“You’ll be fine.”
“If you hate it, I’ll come get you.”
Try:
“It makes sense this feels big.”
“You can miss us and still stay.”
“You can feel nervous and still go.”
“Homesick feelings come in waves.”
“I believe you can handle hard things.”
Because nerves aren’t the enemy. They’re part of the process.
A Note They Can Carry With Them
If your heart feels fast, nothing is wrong with you.
You can miss home and still make friends.
You can feel unsure and still try.
You can cry and still stay.
Homesick feelings come in waves.
They rise. They feel strong. They pass.
You don’t have to solve the whole summer.
Just this hour. Then the next.
That fast heartbeat?
It might just be your inner applause.
Why This Language Matters
Camp won’t be the last leap they take.
Middle school.
High school.
College.
New teams.
New rooms.
New beginnings.
If they can learn now that nerves don’t mean stop – they mean grow – that’s a tool they’ll carry long after the trunks are unpacked.
Camp is practice. And sometimes the loudest heartbeat is just their body cheering them on. Inner applause.
We love that narrative.
And we’re cheering them on, too.
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.
Tulips are blooming, cherry blossoms are peaking, and your parental focus is likely beginning to shift from the school year to the summer ahead. As camp preparations kick into high gear, Opening Day may start to loom larger in your child’s mind. What was once a distant, abstract idea is now a concrete reality. There are packing lists, doctor visits, group chats, and classroom chatter. Whether your child lives the fabled “ten months for two,” or is newly embarking on their camp journey, there is no right way for them to feel. And most of the time, mixed, and big, emotions are present.
As a parent, you may be feeling a range of emotions as well. At the same time, you believe in the power of the camp experience. Camp is increasingly recognized as a rare opportunity for kids to return to “kiddom” – to unplug, be outdoors, have fun, and decompress from the pressures of the school year. While camp can and should be an empowering reset, achieving that requires intentional preparation. Below are a few ways to help set your child, and yourself, up for success.
Validate Nerves & Instill Confidence
Camp nerves are healthy. They demonstrate that a child is processing the upcoming experience and that they feel secure in their home environment. Homesickness, too, is natural, and almost all campers (and staff!) experience a degree of it. Say that to your child simply and clearly.
Validate your child’s feelings, but just as importantly, affirm their readiness. Let them feel your confidence. Communicate that you trust them, believe in their independence, and are excited, not apprehensive, about their experience. Avoid bargaining: “you can always come home,” and instead offer reassurance: “I know you’ll experience so many wonderful things.” Reinforce that an incredible experience filled with growth awaits them, and that counselors and staff are there to help them navigate hard moments.
At the same time, if your child isn’t feeling worried, there’s no need to introduce concern. Focus on the known positives – favorite activities, new friendships, and beloved traditions. Your child will take their emotional cues from you, so lead with calm confidence.
Reflect on Your Child’s School Year
Your kid is still the same kid, even in a different environment. There is more overlap between camp life and school life than meets the eye. Both involve structured days, shared spaces, transitions, responsibilities, constant social interaction, and navigating relationships with a wide range of peers. Reflecting on their school experiences can help you anticipate areas where they may need support, and where they are already equipped to thrive.
Apply school challenges to the camp context. A child who struggles with losing in a classroom game may face similar challenges during camp competitions. Difficulties in group work or recess might translate to unstructured social time at camp. Of course, these behaviors are not inherently causes for concern. However, consider the potential underlying skills, like time-management, persistence through challenging tasks, stamina, etc., to help pinpoint potential camp stressors, and consider how to support those at home before camp begins.
At the same time, help your child recognize their strengths, and use those to build their camp-ready toolkit. If they’ve developed friendships at school, remind them that they already have the skills to do the same at camp. Connecting the dots between successful experiences at home and their positive skills and attributes, empowers your child to see themselves as capable and ready for the unknowns ahead.
Build Camp-Ready Routines
Practicing ways of camp-life at home is key to ensuring success over the summer. Whether it is your child’s first summer or eighth, camp is outside many comfort zones, and requires a great deal of stamina. Feeling comfortable and confident with daily routines frees up brain power and emotional space for kids to demonstrate flexibility and resilience in trickier moments.
If your child often relies on technology before bed or to decompress (iPad, TV, music, etc.), get them hooked on a new camp-approved routine before summer. Have them listen to music on a camp approved device, read, letter-write, draw, or try some other relaxing, tech-free, independent activity. If you are packing your camper with a music device, make sure they know how to use this device! Pre-set a “before bed” playlist or decide on a before bed book or activity. Unsure of what is allowed or typical at your kid’s camp? Ask!
Some other key camp-life routines worth practicing could be cleaning their bedroom before school, greater independence dressing/undressing and with personal hygiene, keeping track of belongings, serving themselves food, etc.
Communicate with Camp
Even if you don’t have any specific concerns, share how your child is feeling about the upcoming summer. If your camp provides intake forms or “confidential” notes, treat them as meaningful opportunities to provide insights, not formalities. Be clear, concise, and honest, keeping in mind that this information is used as an important tool by camp staff.. Share recent developments, stressors, and what helps your child regulate or relax. The more insight staff have, the better they can support your child from day one.
It’s also worth asking how your camp approaches camper support. Some camps now have structured systems, such as Camper Care Teams, that focus on the emotional wellbeing and overall success of campers. If your child may need extra support (during transitions, in social settings, etc.), understand how those plans will be implemented and communicated. By partnering with camp professionals from the start, and trusting their experience, you set the tone for a smoother transition, and open the line of communication for the weeks to come.
Have a Plan for Opening Day
Whether your kid is getting on a bus to camp, or you’re dropping off in person, fast and positive goodbyes are key to helping your child transition to camp. It is normal for this moment to feel a bit awkward. Campers are often nervous and don’t know how to balance meeting peers with family goodbyes. Your goal is to help them step into the experience. Have a plan and keep your time structured: say hello to staff, to peers, and then say a calm, confident goodbye. Avoid lingering. Let counselors handle the settling in. Signal to your camper that you know they are in good hands.
Save reminders for beforehand – goodbyes are not the moment for last-minute instructions. Be mindful of your reactions to details like bus seats or bunk setup or organization; kids are highly attuned to adult emotions. If you have a concern, even something as innocuous as carsickness for the upcoming ride, address it privately with staff. Above all, stay positive. Tell your child how proud you are and how excited you are for this next step. Your confidence will help carry them forward.
Sending your child to camp is an act of trust – in them, in the staff, and in the experience itself. Even for seasoned campers, the home-to-camp transition can bring a complex mix of emotions. With thoughtful preparation, clear communication, and steady confidence, you allow excitement to take the lead over doubt, empowering your child to embrace new challenges and grow.
About the contributor:
Audrey Fleischner is a Director and a Girls Head Counselor at Camp Scatico, a traditional brother-sister sleepaway camp in the Upper Hudson Valley. A 4th generation Scatico director along with her sister, Audrey has never missed a Scatico summer since birth. She holds a Dual Master’s Degree in General Education (1-6) and Students with Disabilities, and she worked as a classroom teacher and sports coach in both independent and public schools in New York City for over a decade. When not at camp, she helps oversee an NYC educational consultancy which she co-founded,BetterEd.
What makes your camp different from others in today’s crowded market?
We eat all of our meals outside right by the lake, under a 100-year-old oak tree – and that really captures a lot of what our camp is. We focus on being outside in a beautiful location, forming strong personal relationships without the barrier of phones and other screens. We have a beautiful sandy beach on a private lake, and nothing beats being in or on the water on a summer day.
We offer more than 30 different activities, and campers get to choose what they do and how they spend their time. Our safe and supportive setting makes us a great place to try new things and meet new people.
We also have an amazing staff. The average age of our counselors is 21, and we don’t have any junior counselors or counselors-in-training. Our staff get to know the kids on a personal level and serve as great role models.
How would you describe the “feeling” of your camp in one sentence?
We are a place where kids can step out of their comfort zone, try new things, and meet new people – all in a safe and supportive setting.
What can a camper gain from a 2–3 week session that might surprise families?
The bonds they form with their cabinmates and counselors, and the memories they make. Campers are part of so many fun and meaningful experiences in such a short time. One of our staff goals is: “Counselors have a positive impact on each camper, such that in 20 years each camper will remember their counselor’s name and their experience at camp” – and we believe we consistently deliver on that.
How do shorter sessions still deliver a “complete” camp experience?
Our session is structured in a very intentional way to maximize the fun in just a few weeks. All campers arrive and depart together, so your child will never make a close friend only to have them leave partway through a session. We offer a wide variety of activities and out-of-camp trips, and we close with intentional activities over the final days that leave a lasting impact – campers go home excited to come back the following summer.
How do you support first-time campers who may not be ready for a full summer?
We have multiple layers of support for first-time campers. Our counselors are specifically trained on integrating new campers, spotting signs of homesickness, and helping kids feel comfortable in an unfamiliar setting. We also have Cabin Heads and a Camp Experience Director whose primary role is supporting the social-emotional wellbeing of our campers and staying in communication with parents.
Parents need support too when sending their child away for the first time – which is why we do a lot of pre-camp information sharing and meetings to set everyone up for success and help parents feel confident trusting us with their child. We also personally call the family of each new camper after the first week to share an update on how their child is doing.
What would you say to a teen who feels like they “missed the window” for camp?
It is never too late to come to summer camp! We have new kids at every age level, and they will almost never be the only new camper in their cabin. Our older campers go on weekly out-of-camp trips and have more autonomy and freedom in their schedule. And since no one has their phone, everyone is on the same level – which makes it surprisingly easy to make new friends.
If you had to describe Kingsley Pines in three words, what would they be, and why?
Safe, supportive, and fun. Being away from the comforts of family, home, and technology can feel intimidating – and we work hard to make that transition as easy as possible. With so many activities, there truly is something for everyone, whether you want to try something brand new or grow your skills in something you already love.
About the contributor:
Dan first set foot in Maine, and at Kingsley Pines in 2005, his first year as a counselor. Over the years he was a Counselor, Campus Head, Program Director, Assistant Director, and now Director. He loves working with campers and staff, and enjoys seeing their growth not only throughout the summer but over multiple years.
He knows from personal experience that camp can be a life changing experience, and 2026 will be his 22nd summer at camp. Dan is actively engaged in the broader summer camp community. He has presented at the world’s largest camp conference and works with the American Camping Association to train new Camp Directors. He lives in Westbrook, Maine with his family.
Camp Winadu, the premier all boys summer camp, has been providing boys a well-rounded traditional camp experience in the Berkshire Mountains since 1927. The camp’s soul is rooted in its values, where all boys can be successful and be their best selves. Every summer brings new Winadu adventures, but a couple things always remain the same – time flies and camp friends become family. Campers are supported by directors Jared and Jill Shapiro & Alissa & Mike Girling who have an unwavering commitment to their campers. As we celebrate summer 100, we are grateful for the opportunity to impact the lives of so many and to continue and build upon the proud legacy that defines Camp Winadu.
In today’s world, where boys face increasing social and academic pressures, what role do you believe camp plays in their overall development?
Camp, especially at Winadu, gives boys the freedom to just be boys. As you noted, the social and academic pressures at home are intense – amplified even more by social media, where every kid is performing their life for an audience. At an all-boys camp, it’s the opposite. There’s no social hierarchy, no pressure to “be cool,” and very little competition. That environment allows boys to become comfortable in their own skin, learn how to communicate, and build confidence through genuine friendships. Without judgment, campers often try things at camp they might never do at home – like belting out a song or dancing wildly at the end-of-meal or rainy day sing-alongs. Those moments, full of laughter and freedom, are exactly what help boys grow.
What truly sets Camp Winadu apart from other all-boys camps?
Winadu is different – and it’s hard to capture in words. The best way to describe it? Our boys come back and finish their experience as campers. We believe it’s the individual attention and care each camper feels, combined with being part of 100 years of one camp family, supported by our staff, leadership team, and Directors. Every new camper is personally met by the Winadu Directors in their home before their first summer, helping them feel known and comfortable even before stepping off the bus. Our program is another difference: while our core values stay the same, no two summers are alike. Campers can expect new energy, fresh ideas, and plenty of surprises. With boys from 18+ states, Winadu is truly a diversified community – another thing that sets us apart.
Winadu is known as a well-rounded traditional summer camp for boys. What types of boys thrive most at Winadu, and what qualities do you hope they take home at the end of the summer?
Great question. We take pride in the well-roundedness of our program, where nearly all boys thrive. The key to thriving at Winadu is openness – being willing to try new things and make lifelong friends. Campers do it all: play basketball, learn to sail, go on hikes, and create projects in our craft shack. Kindness is equally important – boys who are considerate to each other and to the entire Winadu community really shine. We see camp as a partnership with our families, and over the years, our campers grow into young men who embody community, confidence, thoughtfulness, and resilience.
What one tradition or moment at camp captures the heart of Winadu?
Campership! This is our Friday night tradition where the entire camp comes together as one. You truly have to see it to believe it – we even have a short documentary called The History of Campership. The camp sits in the round and recognizes campers for their accomplishments throughout the week. Every Friday, our in-house band kicks things off with a concert, and soon the whole camp is singing and dancing — the energy is electric. Traditions within the tradition include the campers’ favorite: shoulder rides! Campership is also part of our Winadu Circle, our six-value system, with Campership representing caring about others. Friday night celebrates that value, ending the week and starting a new one together as one camp family.
What advice do you have for families considering Winadu for summer 2027?
Visit camp – there’s no better way to understand Winadu than experiencing it firsthand and meeting the people who will be caring for your son. Our in-summer Rookie Days are perfect for this. Rookies and their parents join us on a regular camp day to see the real Winadu in action. Campers eat in the dining hall, explore the lake, meet staff, and get a feel for daily life at camp. Parents tour with a Director, observe activities, and have time to ask questions. Choosing a camp is a multi-year decision, and seeing Winadu in person is truly special.
If you had to describe Camp Winadu in three words, what would they be, and why?
Brotherhood, Heart, Legacy – for almost 100 summers, Winadu has been a place where time stands still, boys focus on friendships, and everyone feels a deep sense of belonging. It’s where songs are sung, memories are made, and a meaningful legacy is lived every summer. Friendships grow into family through shared experiences, and through wins, losses, laughter, and growth, Winadu brothers know they will always have each other.
About the Contributors:
Jared and Jill Shapiro – Owners/Directors Jared’s history with Camp Winadu dates back to 1984 when he began as a camper. He spent 12 consecutive summers as a camper, counselor, group leader. Jill spent her summers growing up at Camp Kippewa. In 2012, Jared and his wife, Jill returned to Winadu. They live in Millburn, NJ and have three sons. Together, they carry on the beauty and traditions of the unique Winadu culture. They met at University of Wisconsin where their two sons, Ethan and Reid currently attend, and Bennett is still a camper at Winadu. As a family they are die-hard Wisconsin Badger fans waiting for their first basketball or football national championship.
Alissa and Mike Girling – Owners/Directors
In 2010, Alissa & Mike started at Winadu. Alissa and Mike met at sleepaway camp in 2002 and they instantly knew that camping was their future together. Alissa (a proud Hoosier) came back to camping after a career as a school guidance counselor and Mike a soccer professional. Alissa is involved in directing all areas of camp but focuses on camper recruitment and communication with camp families to ensure a seamless camp experience. Mike – who wears every hat at Winadu – oversees staffing, food service, maintenance, and ensures that the “behind the scenes” aspects of camp life function smoothly and perfectly. Alissa, Mike, and their daughters Hannah and Emma reside in New City, New York,
We asked Alissa what her favorite Winadu event was – and she has 4 letters ZORK!!! (our camp wide shaving cream fight)
We asked Mike what his favorite Winadu program is – Mike loves World Cup Day (a full day soccer tournament) and of course, his summer all camp birthday party.
Every March, brackets dominate conversations. This year, we are bringing the debate to camp.
Parents often find themselves stuck between two great options.
Coed or single gender?
Full summer or shorter sessions?
Structured schedule or elective based?
The truth is, the question is not which one wins. The question is which one helps your child thrive.
Why These Debates Feel So Big
Choosing a camp is emotional. It feels like a decision about independence, confidence, friendships, and growth all wrapped into one summer. When families compare camp styles, they are usually trying to predict outcomes:
Will my child make friends at camp?
Will they build confidence?
Will they feel comfortable?
Will they grow?
Those are the right questions. But the answer is rarely found in a single feature.
Coed vs Single Gender
Both models create meaningful friendships and personal growth. Coed sleepaway camps mirror real-world social environments and often appeal to families with siblings – including those searching for brother sister camps where kids can attend together. Single gender camps, whether all girls camps or all boys camps, can reduce social pressure and give kids space to explore leadership and identity. The decision often depends on your child’s maturity, comfort level, and personality.
Full Summer vs Shorter Sessions
Full summer programs tend to foster deeper relationships and stronger independence. The personal growth curve is often more dramatic. Shorter camp sessions provide flexibility and can be a strong introduction for first-time campers. The key question: does your child need time to settle in, or do they benefit from shorter bursts of independence?
Elective-Based vs Structured Schedule
Elective-based camps give campers ownership. Choice can build confidence and motivation. Structured camp programs provide exposure to a wide range of camp activities and reduce decision fatigue. Some children flourish when they choose. Others thrive when the framework is set.
The Myth of the “Best” Camp
There is no universal champion. The most beautiful thing about the summer camp world is its variety.
What works for one child may not work for another, even within the same family. The goal is not to win the debate. The goal is alignment.
How to Actually Decide
Instead of asking, “Which summer camp is best?” try asking:
Where does my child feel most comfortable socially?
How do they handle transitions?
Do they need structure or thrive with choice?
What environment brings out their confidence?
The right camp fit feels less like a gamble and more like a thoughtful match. That is what we help families uncover every day.
Final Thoughts
March Madness crowns one champion.
Camp decisions do not. There is no trophy for picking the most popular option. There is only the quiet confidence that comes from knowing your child is exactly where they are meant to be.
If you are unsure which “team” your family belongs on, we would love to help you build your winning lineup.
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.
Indian & Forest Acres Camp, in their 103rd summer, is a traditional summer camp in Fryeburg, Maine, built on community, belonging, and purpose. They believe children grow best when they are truly known – not just by name, but by personality, strengths, and needs.
As brother-sister camps, their camps sit two miles apart but share the same Directors and several facilities. Their program blends athletics, creative arts, outdoor adventure, and meaningful traditions in a structured yet joyful environment. Directors are present and engaged, counselors are carefully selected and mentored, and every camper is supported socially and emotionally throughout the summer.
At Indian & Forest Acres, camp is more than activities filling a schedule. It is a place where children build confidence, form lasting friendships, develop independence, and feel a genuine sense of belonging.
What truly sets Indian & Forest Acres apart, especially for families deciding between a smaller camp and a larger one? How does the brother-sister camp model shape the experience for campers and families?
Indian & Forest Acres sits in the space many families are searching for – large enough to offer depth, tradition, and strong programming, yet small enough for every camper to be truly known and supported by fellow campers, staff, and Directors alike. In bigger camps, children can feel lost in the crowd; in smaller camps, program breadth and tradition may feel limited. At IA/FA, campers experience both personal attention and a wide range of activities, from competitive team traditions to an expansive waterfront and serious riding program. The brother-sister model strengthens this balance. Boys and girls grow in focused environments where confidence builds and social pressure lessens, then come together intentionally for shared experiences like Coed Play, weekly dances, and dedicated Brother/Sister time. The result is independence, meaningful connection, and a sense of belonging within something bigger than themselves.
Are there traditions or moments that really capture the spirit of IA/FA?
We have so many traditions both big and small that encapsulate who we are. Some that come to mind…
It’s a random Thursday evening and you’re walking past our theater, TipTop. Inside, you’ll likely find nearly every camper 13+ from both camps singing their hearts out, rehearsing for that summer’s Coed Play. Last year it was All Shook Up, the summer before Mamma Mia. You can’t help but smile – and want to jump in and join them!
We do Color War differently. Campers stay on the same team for their entire camp career, alongside their siblings and relatives, and if we’re lucky enough to welcome their future children, they’ll be on that same team, too. It creates a powerful sense of legacy, belonging, and pride, with each camper knowing they are a valued member of that team forever.
How does IA/FA support the growth and development of each camper (socially, emotionally, and creatively) throughout their time at camp?
Socially: We recognize every camper for who they are and meet them where they are. Our small, close-knit community allows campers to build genuine friendships and learn to navigate social dynamics in a supportive environment. With just two to three cabins per age group, and an effort to keep bunks together year after year, campers grow up alongside one another, forming bonds that feel like family. Counselors actively guide everyday interactions, modeling teamwork, inclusion, communication, and empathy while helping campers resolve conflicts, advocate for themselves, and build lasting confidence.
Emotionally: There are no rules around emotion at camp, and no expectations for how feelings should look. We help campers learn to regulate and understand their emotions while celebrating them as individuals. Whether it’s trying something new, working through homesickness, or forming a new friendship, campers develop resilience, self-confidence, and a stronger sense of self.
Creatively: Creativity is woven into every part of camp life – in the arts, athletics, outdoor adventure, and performance. Campers are encouraged to explore new interests and express themselves freely, often stepping into roles they might never try at home. Beyond scheduled activities, self-expression shows up in writing and song at Friday Night Services, Campfire, and Friendship Circle, where campers of all ages share how camp has shaped and inspired them.
What’s the best kept secret about Indian & Forest Acres?
We have a few. One is the standard of our riding program – arguably one of the premier programs in the industry. We attract riders of all levels while still offering a well-rounded camp experience. Another is our lake. Although it’s a quick five-minute drive, it feels like a Trip Day every time campers go, spending a full morning or afternoon enjoying everything it offers. We’re the only camp on the lake, and with a cabin right on the water, campers can not only participate in a wide range of activities but even sleep out there with their bunk. And finally, because our lake is offsite, both camps sit on the Saco River, and each has a heated Olympic-style pool. That means three waterfronts for every camper – not something you see every day!
What’s your top three most popular activities?
Lake
Horseback riding
Volleyball
If you had to describe Indian & Forest Acres in three words, what would they be – and why?
Community – Community isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a byproduct of our size and leadership style. Because we are intentionally small, directors know every camper by name, staff know each child as a whole person, and campers connect beyond just their bunk. In larger camps, kids can hide. At IA/FA, they are seen. There is warmth, accountability, and real partnership with families. Older campers feel responsibility for younger ones, traditions span generations, and directors are present, visible, and accessible.
Belonging – If community is our structure, belonging is the feeling. Every camper has a place, is known, and contributes. It looks like a shy camper being gently included, homesickness noticed early, and children valued for who they are – not how athletic or outgoing they may be. Families don’t just want attendance; they want their children to matter. Protecting that culture is a priority for us.
Intentional – Many of the moments campers cherish happen in the ordinary rhythms of camp life – and very little is by accident. We hire staff who align with our values, create programming that builds confidence, and set policies that prioritize safety and growth. From group dynamics to parent communication, we lead with thoughtful intention in everything we do.
About the Contributors:
Melissa Newman- Director- Melissa started at camp when she was 7 years old in Cabin 5 and spent nine summers as a camper at Forest Acres before returning as a counselor and Unit Leader. After completing her undergraduate degree in Psychology at the University of Michigan, she moved to Boston to attend Northeastern University, where she earned her Masters of Science and Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in School Psychology. Melissa started her career as a School Psychologist in an elementary school in the suburbs of Boston. She left the school setting, moved into a corporate setting and eventually grew to manage a team of 10. Melissa feels her work experience has resulted in the perfect combination for camp: time spent working with kids, parents, and teachers, as well as managing others. More than anything, it has given her the ability to listen first and then react- a practice she considers vital for a leader and strives to maintain daily in this role.
After several years away from camp, Melissa returned to camp in 2024 with her husband, Jeff, and two children, Jordyn and Tate. Leading Indian & Forest Acres Camps has been a lifelong aspiration of hers, and she is so happy to be back spending her summers in Maine and sharing her love for camp during the winter months. Melissa’s favorite aspect of camp is seeing campers come into their own and find their interests, passions, likes, and dislikes. Outside of camp, she lives in Boca Raton, Florida. She loves being able to travel and visit with campers and their families. When she is not traveling or planning for the following summer, Melissa is actively involved in her children’s school and is on the Parent Board, raising funds and planning events for the school community. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, playing Fantasy Football, baking, and cheering on the Michigan Wolverines!
Moe Burness- Assistant Director– Early on in his years at camp, Moe developed a deep love for camp and its traditions. He feels blessed to be able to “live camp” all year round, and it is his profound joy to have the opportunity to give back to a camp that has given him so much since he was 9 years old, as well as pay it forward to campers and counselors for generations to come. Moe came to camp in 1967 as a second-generation camper; his mother and uncle both attended camp in the late 1930s. He was a cabin counselor, Unit Leader, Athletic Director, Program Director, and Head Counselor. Moe is a graduate of Boston College where he proudly created and became the first mascot (The BC Eagle) at the college. When he is not in Maine or on the road visiting our campers and their families as well as meeting prospective camp families, he resides in South Windsor, CT.
