We just finished a great first week at camp. As counselors fine-tuned their departmental chemistry, they led engaging lessons for kids of all ages. If all you heard was about how much fun (or how hot) camp was, here are some of the things campers have been learning. In agriculture campers were introduced to the plant diversity in Riverlea’s organic garden and learned about the anatomy and nutritional needs of plants. In archery everyone learned the safety procedures of the range, proper shooting technique and form, and started target shooting. Campers tie-dyed shirts and did other projects in arts and crafts. Our athletics counselors led spirited games of dodgeball and capture the flag. In canoeing and kayaking campers learned the parts of a boat and paddle, then practiced new strokes and maneuvers while playing games in Yonder Pond. Campers learned about their body in space, the importance of voice, and played improv games in drama. For most older campers, golf presented a new set of challenges concerning focus, adjustment, persistence, and patience as they tried their hands at swinging clubs for the first time ever. In music campers were introduced to tempo and rhythm as they played games such as jazz cat and musical mats. Campers in nature classes fine-tuned their attention to visual and auditory detail before exploring the ecosystem in the stretch of the Little River on the edge of Camp grounds. Each day, every camper has a swimming lesson during which they get individualized instruction and encouragement to improve their swim skills. Older campers receive similar instruction in tennis (though not as frequently), and in both cases, new skills are put to the test during group games.
These are some of the many things that go on at camp every week. We also have special events such as the Hobbit Adventure, extra mandatory free swims on the hottest days, trail magic, and lots of time when the kids can talk and play with one another outside the context of a structured activity. Overall, this first week of camp was wonderful, and we have no doubt the next seven will be just as great.
