4-H Camps

Day Camps Residential Camps Regardless of the type……. 4-H Camp is an independent educational activity not restricted to completing a project or holding an office. Types of 4-H Camp Experiences

Provides the camp experience. Creates the foundation. Allows for a greater partnership. Day Camps

Child development professionals recognize camp as valuable in helping children grow …. ▫ socially, ▫ emotionally, ▫ intellectually, ▫ morally, and ▫ physically. Value of Camp Experience

A community of caring adults A safe place to learn and have fun Trained, caring role models helping children feel loved, capable, and included A place for children to grow What does a Camp Experience Provide?

Plan with Purpose What do you want to achieve with the camp experience? Getting Started

Registration Forms Appropriate paperwork Check In/Check Out procedures! Insurance Emergency Plan Best Management Practices

Are they needed? What role do you expect them to fulfill? Position Description Expectations Qualifications Training Camp Counselors

Certified Volunteers Training Understand Campers Group Dynamics Problem Situations Behavior & Guidance Risk Management Unacceptable Behaviors Preparing Counselors for Campers

Camper to Adult Ratios 5-8 year olds Cloverbuds 9-14 year olds year olds Overnight*1:61:81:10 Day Camp**1:81:101:12 *2014 Club Management System handbook (page 16) ** Recommendation of American Camping Association

Ages and Stages Essential Elements of Youth Development Understanding Campers

Small groups Organizing groups Establishing teams Group Dynamics

Bed Wetting Sleep Walking Counselor/Camper Relationships Teasing/Gossiping Bullying Homesickness Stealing Inappropriate or Scary Stories Swearing Fatigue Problem Situations at Camp

Counselors need to be informed! Why problems may surface Skills Behavior and Guidance

NEVER FORGET….parents have entrusted us with the care of their child! Positive Experiences free from: Verbal, Physical, Mental, Emotional and Sexual abuse Risk Management

Lack of sensitivity to Diversity Hazing Discrimination Harassment Unacceptable Behaviors

This manual is available for helping you create SUPER Camp Counselors! Contact the State 4-H Office

a Place a Program Counselors and Staff Camping is what really happens to campers! Camp is …….

Camp is where I learned about me; facing fears, trying new things, pushing my boundaries, and accepting myself.