|
 Camp
is not just recreation and fun. It is more
than teaching skills, such as archery or
swimming. It is about understanding the
beauty of discovery that can lead to emotional
growth and maturation. It is the expansion
of one's world, a sharpening of one's vision
that invites the acquisition of lifelong
lessons.
Camp professionals are not just teachers
or counselors; they are coaches and mentors.
They influence, advocate, shape, love, and
protect. And it is true, both young and
old do learn lessons from the camp experience.
However, those lessons come after experiences
that are real, relevant, and personal.
The way in which parents select a camp
should be based on intrinsic values rather
than external facilities that a camp offers.
Camp pioneer, Ruth Isserman is the former
owner of Camp Chickagami, who at ninety-seven
still serves as a strong, vital supporter
of ACA and camp. She noted, "It is the development
of a child as a person that is equally as
important as academics." Further, "it's
the richness of making their own entertainment"
and the most important skills we contribute
are listening and observing. "We are building
better people for a better world," she stated.
A shared vision with ACA.."enriching lives
and changing the world."
 "Who
will care when I'm not there?" It's every
parent's question when they leave their
children in the hands of strangers. Who
will take the time to appreciate basic child
development, as well as the unique qualities
of their personalities? Who will ensure
that my children have fun and, at the same
time, learn important life lessons? Who
will help my children understand how they
can work as a team, contributing and succeeding?
Who will help my children understand the
importance of a community and the responsibilities
that lie within? Who will keep my children
safe and guard their tender feelings while
they are acting invincible? Who will care
when I'm not there?
The answer to these questions is the camp
professional. They offer children the opportunity
to explore, discover, and learn about the
best things life has to offer. They are
willing to laugh, talk and cry with children,
creating an understanding of social bonding.
These are the people who are willing to
care when I am not there.
The camp experience is a win-win for everyone.
Parents win because their children grow
and learn. Children win because they have
fun and collect lifelong friends and memories.
Society wins because the camp experience
helps make healthy, productive adults. Camp
professionals win because they have made
a positive difference in a child's life.
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