What’s not a part of summer camp?
Inevitably, during summer camp registration, I speak to several parents who ask, “What do the children do in camp?” I try my best to tell them everything. However, our camps contain such an amazing array of activities each year; it would be easier to tell them what doesn’t happen. For example, I could say:
- “While in camp, your child will never go hungry and will not be bored.
- They will never be without something to do or someplace to go, something to learn or a new thing to try.
- They won’t be put down, told they are stupid, or only given one chance to get things right.
- There will be no dozing in front of the TV, no high-stakes testing, no hanging out in the street, and they will never wonder if they are wanted or safe.
- We will never assume your child can’t do something, because of the way they dress, how they speak, or where they live.
- And we will never forget that this child is your precious one and only, irreplaceable and special in every way.”
In the future, I probably should write notes to read off of or perhaps produce an informative brochure. It could go something like this:
For these seven weeks of summer camp, your child will also be our child.
Therefore, they will be nourished, cared for, loved, and disciplined.
They will be taught math and reading, science and sports, history and art, right from wrong, and that they are unique and highly valued.
They will be given an outlet for their creativity, a shoulder to cry on, encouragement for their efforts, a pat on the back when they succeed, and a hug when it’s been a hard day so far, and it’s only 9 am.
They will learn how to be helpful and polite, clean up after themselves, show concern for others, and take responsibility for their own actions.
They will gain new friends, computer skills, and a better perspective on the world around them.At the end of seven weeks, the same child you sent to camp will come home to you– but they might just be more respectful of others, confident in their own abilities, and ready to succeed in school — be prepared.
Obviously, we’re not in the business of producing perfect children. But we are here to bring children who are marginalized to the center of society, where they can use their skills and talents, and reach their full potential.
Looking toward this fall, we’re exploring new ways to give even more children from disadvantaged neighborhoods the kind of opportunities our summer day campers have had. Will you join us?
Kristin Wiener
Temperatures here in DC tell us summer is on the way. School will be out in just a few more weeks. Families are looking forward to vacations, trips to the beach, and other special activities.
Together we can make a difference for children living in poverty. We can provide a safe and supportive environment every weekday through the summer. We can make sure kids get three good meals a day. We can allow kids to be kids: having fun at the pool or playing games, taking day trips or participating in special events. We can expand their horizons through new experiences, and provide engaging educational enrichment that will help kids go back to school in September with greater self-confidence and stronger academic skills.