A Word from Peg
Peg Smith, CEO of the American Camp Association, shares her ponderings, provocations, and persuasions.
July 1, 2011
So many of us worry about the misuse of the word "camp." But in a conversation with ACA Director of Research Deb Bialeschki the other day, she told me that kids today are defining "outdoors" as when they go sit on the curb with their friends or sit in the parking lot at a mall. Nature, on the other hand, is somewhat removed — like a far off land you would go visit — maybe . . . because, remember, there might be bugs and other things that would make one uncomfortable. In the future, will a "nature visit" be like a visit to the zoo? Tell me it ain’t so.
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June 29, 2011
Digital disruption results in authentic engagement between and among campers. Creative problem solving emerges. Increased understanding of one another, the community, and the world at large erupts when campers share time, space, and activities. Lifelong lessons and friendships burst forth and are cherished for years. And, yes, history has demonstrated that, over time, real engagements have been a consequence due to learning similar life lessons wedded (sorry, no pun intended) by the shared values and positive relationships taught at camp.
June 28, 2011
A full ensemble makes the best jazz, and you want your staff to be jazzed about the work they do. A well-placed board member can be instrumental. Find a place at the staff table for an occasional visit from a board member. The energy and commitment a board member can bring to your staff can often inspire and stimulate new vitality. Adding a new perspective or lens to the work that we do on a daily basis can embellish and "renovate" the mundane. In turn, the board member will bring new insights and creativity to the board room. The perfect jazz ensemble — go make music!
June 20, 2011
Camp directors tell me all the time that the counselors make or break the camp experience. A camper who bonds with the counselor and other campers wants to return. Well, that is not magic. Well-trained staff who understand the "magic" of what is developmentally appropriate and the importance of an intentional program dedicated to the values and mission of the camp will bring both campers and parents back to camp year after year. What changes lives? Relationships! Sure, sprinkle a little magic into that formula, but never underestimate professional development.
June 16, 2011
Child and youth development are not only a young person's right, but imperative if he or she is to grow up to be healthy, contributing citizen in our global community. However, be sure to read the warning label.
WARNING: Tamper with the developmental stages of growth and development by eliminating opportunities for social, emotional, and physical development while practicing, failing, and learning in safe, intentional environments, and you risk seeing normal adolescent behaviors resurface in adulthood.
I fear we are witnessing such behaviors in far too many adults today — not pretty, huh? You are doing important work!
Camp is like a perfect greenhouse for kids. It is an enriched, thriving environment designed to promote and nurture positive growth and development.
