https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/safe-haven-learning

A decade ago, an awkward, uncertain bus ride took me somewhere I never expected to go. My physical destination was camp, where a throng of excited kids would gather for outdoor adventure and...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/six-habits-i-wish-every-counselor-had

Many years ago I traveled from my hometown of Boston to four different cities in the United States — Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, and New York — and conducted a series of focus groups with...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/food-fire-fun-all-one-why-how-offer-outdoor-cooking-camp

At lunchtime, youthful chefs ages nine to 12 gather around tables in the camp dining room with knives in their hands and plastic cutting boards in front of them. Trying to follow directions in the...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/performing-arts-programs-camp-need-creativity-digital-world

The culture of camps is deeply rooted in being places where kids not only have fun, but where they connect socially. Today, camps are taking on greater importance and many are focused on specialized...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/programs-innovatively-investing-campers-futures-2018-eleanor-eells-award-winners

Each year, ACA’s Eleanor P. Eells Award for Program Excellence recognizes camps that embody the award’s namesake by developing superior programming that effectively and creatively addresses the...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/move-new-normal-be-friend-you-want-beginning

One of the best reasons to go to camp is to experience something new. Yet, at the same time, some of the unpleasant feelings experienced while at camp might be because we are new! It is a paradox. It...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/happy-camping-yall

Being a camp counselor is hard, but it’s the best and most rewarding work you’ll ever do. As someone who spent 17 summers at camp as a camper, counselor-in-training, cabin counselor, lifeguard,...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/because-we-love-it

“Great ambition and conquest without contribution is without significance.” ~ The Emperor’s Club “Because we love it” is the common answer I hear when I ask motivated camp staff...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/ten-tips-tricks-terrific-teaching

Many camp staff are responsible for activities instruction as part of their job. If you have never taught before, the idea of instructing a group of campers can be a scary proposition. Being in front...

https://www.acacamps.org/article/camping-magazine/chill-out

Dear Bob, I have heard you talk about creating a space for campers who may need a time-out at camp because of their behavior. Can you expand on this idea? How do we set up such a space, what might...