Saturday, November 21, 2009

Leadership for Teens

By Lonnie Lorenz

More than ever before we need leaders. Those who attend Overnight Summer Camps tend to teach skills like flexibility along with problem solving. Living with those who are not the same as yourself and are from different parts of the country or world promotes an acceptance of diversity. Those who send their children to Overnight Summer Camps have long been aware that camps promote a childs personal growth and development. Many of these traits include: independence, responsibility, cooperation, teamwork and a willingness to try new concerns.

Since'96 we have been camp directors at Swift Nature Camp. We have always been intentional in using our camps resources to promote positive personal growth and development . It is because of this intentionality that we can see and measure how campers and staff are growing and developing as individuals during their stay at summer camp.

At Swift Nature Camp we work one on one with camp staff to ensure that they realize that they have an obligation not only to keep children safe but to encourage and assist campers in their own personal development and growth. During daily staff meetings we check in with staff to see if they are on course with the parents directives as well as the camps goals.

Even our older teens have a chance to help and guide younger campers. A counselor in training program is designed to help teen engage in leadership and decision-making. Daily their class teaches leadership training along with child development. Then they get a chance to put into practice. For some this is their first time at a job and have a difficult role, since they just want fun. Others see this as a wonderful opportunity to better leaders in the future this is a great program.

Being a leader at camp means putting the needs of others before one's needs is often a significant skill for teenagers. Staff young and old realize the importance of being physically and emotionally present for campers and enthusiastically participating in all activities. It is so important to motivating and encouraging the children to try new things and achieve their own goals.

Camps provide an opportunity to be role models and mentors to younger children. This is not only true for those staff members but also for campers. For many, this is the first time that they realize the natural power they have over others. They learn skills for group management and gaining respect and for teaching children new skills and encouraging them to try new things.

Yes, summer camp is a wonderful time to be outside and playing but it is also a wonderful opportunity campers, and staff alike to increase their personal growth and development.

To learn more about selecting a Summer Camp visit summer camp advice a free website with loads of camp information.

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