Camp Walt Whitman

Monday, December 5, 2016

Introduce Your Kids to Zip Lining for Improved Self-Confidence

Instilling self-confidence in your children is one of the most important jobs you are entrusted with as a parent. While you know that using positive guidance helps build self-esteem, it is sometimes hard to come up with new ways to build confidence in children who need a little push to get out of their comfort zone. Zip lining is one activity that has grown in popularity, and the cool factor will be all it takes to get your child eager to step out into new territory that rewards taking a safe risk.

Learn to Conquer Fears

Many kids have a natural fear of heights that causes them to be apprehensive about climbing into a zip line harness. Yet, it is hard to resist the thrill of a new adventure. During their introduction to zip lining, the staff always spends time talking to kids about the different pieces of equipment that are designed to keep them safe. Kids are also allowed to practice skills that build up to the big moment such as putting on their harness and zipping down a lower line. As kids gain familiarity with zip lining, their fears recede, and it only takes a few moments of soaring through the air before most of them completely forget why they were ever scared in the first place.

Developing Trust in a Safe Environment

Introducing a kid to zip lining should always be done in a safe and supportive environment. Summer camps offer zip lining because they know how exciting it is for kids to literally reach new heights while also building their ability to trust in themselves and others. They are never forced to go on a zip line until they are ready. Instead, they are encouraged to take on the challenge by positive interactions with their peers and the crew. On a summer camp zip line course, kids who are new to the sport get the opportunity to watch experienced campers take the leap first while receiving encouragement from everyone in their group when they are ready to give it a try.

Enjoy a Sense of Accomplishment

The benefits of zip lining are instant since a kid’s confidence begins to soar as soon as they step off the platform. Feeling a sense of awe as they take in the scenery is a huge reward for taking a leap of faith, and kids quickly gain a sense of control since they can slow down their ride along the length of the course or let go to enjoy a faster zip down the line. Once they complete their zip line, the other members of their group are always eager to celebrate their big moment with enthusiasm. Over time, many kids begin to seek out new opportunities for zip lining that takes them to greater heights and to exciting new landscapes.

Taking safe risks and conquering new challenges is important for building a kid’s self-confidence. The confidence a kid learns on a zip line also extends to other areas of their life since knowing that they can beat their fears helps them with public speaking, learning a new academic skill and practicing leadership in sports. By allowing your child the opportunity to see the world from a bird’s-eye view, you provide them with a new perspective on their ability to accomplish anything they set their mind out to do.

If you're considering sending your child to an overnight summer camp, be sure to visit our site to learn about Camp Walt Whitman. Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Camp Walt Whitman offers a safe, nurturing environment in a beautiful mountain setting. Our camp is a coed sleepaway camp, with separate areas for boys and girls. The kids have a blast, and make friendships that can last a lifetime. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/about-sleepaway-summer-camp.html

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Choosing a Tennis Program for Your Child

Tennis is known as a lifetime sport because children who learn to play tend to continue strengthening their skills through practice and competition as adults. Finding the right tennis program is the key to successfully teaching your child the lessons they need to be successful in this competitive sport. As you explore potential programs, look for these signs of quality that will ensure your child gets the right start toward developing an interest in tennis that turns into a lifelong passion.

Ask About the Coach’s Credentials

When it comes to teaching tennis, experience in the sport and with kids is everything. While your coach might not be an Olympian, they should have a history of successfully competing and winning competitions. Memberships in local tennis organizations and national affiliations also speak for their dedication to staying current regarding the latest coaching techniques while supporting the development of their preferred sport. While possessing the right credentials is important, your child’s coach should also be personable with an upbeat personality and the energy to keep up with the children on the courts.

Check for Low Staff-to-Student Ratios

In tennis class, too many students without enough coaches leads to chaos and boredom. Therefore, in addition to the coach, you should see additional staff members available to assist. This keeps kids from having to wait around for instruction ensuring a higher level of safety on the courts.

Learn About the Facility

Tennis programs need enough space for every student to practice playing as much as possible. Ask how many courts are available and if they are full-size. Ideally, kids will be practicing on courts like the ones used in competitions. Although they may play doubles during practice games, there should still be plenty of courts available for everyone to play at once. During your tour, the facility should also be clean with well-maintained equipment.

Sign Up for Daily Practices

Learning any new skill requires consistent practice, and kids thrive when they are offered tennis classes during school breaks so they can fully immerse themselves in the sport. For example, tennis programs offered as electives at summer camp will encourage kids to practice every day, and specialized programs allow them to dive into tennis for an entire week. These types of programs help keep your child’s skills fresh throughout the entire year.

Look for Intensive Practice Programs

If your goal is for your child to play tennis competitively, then private practice sessions are essential. Since your child benefits from working with staff members and coaches they already know, make sure the program you choose offers private sessions. During these sessions, your child will receive one-on-one training that is targeted to strengthen their weak skills while reinforcing the things they do well. It also gives them a chance to practice with advanced tennis players that love being able to pass down their expertise.

Learning to play tennis takes a combination of dedication and the right kind of training. Whether your child just wants to play for fun or they are aiming to be a professional athlete, signing up for a tennis program is the first step toward success. By knowing how to choose a quality program, you will line your child up with the right coaches and practice schedules to truly develop a love for the sport.

Friday, September 30, 2016

5 Life Skills Kids Learn in Summer Camp Drama Class

Aspiring actors have the unique opportunity to hone their skills in drama classes at summer camp. Not only do these classes serve as a fun diversion from their usual school day, but they also provide the perfect chance to learn skills that will last a lifetime. Preparing for a play and performing for an audience takes both dedication and courage, and your child benefits from learning these five life skills every time they take center stage.

See Other Perspectives

Getting into character requires putting on someone else’s shoes and seeing the world through their eyes. Whether a child is portraying an optimistic orphan or a misunderstood ogre, they have to stretch their imaginations to understand how their character would behave. The ability to empathize with others transfers to becoming a people person that excels in school and work experiences.

Improve Poise

When performing, it is often necessary to think on one’s feet since anything could happen. If a fellow actor forgets their lines, your child may have to pick up the beat. In acting class, kids also learn how to control their body language to support the script. As they do, your child will know how to properly express their emotions. From giving a bow to express gratitude for applause to smiling through their stage fright, acting lessons emphasize the effect that every movement makes on the audience.

Learn to Cooperate as a Team

Many kids struggle with working in a group, and sports are not the only place to help them learn the value of teamwork. For every play that goes on, there is a team of kids that all must work together to make sure the show runs smoothly. While some kids may act, others may play supporting roles through designing the set or planning the costumes. Regardless of what role a child plays, communication is key to a successful performance.

Develop Public Speaking Skills

Speaking to a large group is still a fear among many adults, yet it is critical to career success today. Drama class teaches kids the fundamentals of speech such as how to project their voice and stay calm when standing before an audience. With public speaking, practice really does make perfect. Performing in a play at summer camp also provides a supportive audience full of a kid’s peers and family which makes it a little easier to stand before a crowd for the first time.

Increase Self-Confidence

Acting coaches at camp have the honor of watching as kids go from fumbling through their lines to playing their role like a pro in front of an audience. With every line that is mastered and every successful show, kids develop self-confidence that they carry with them throughout their lives. In time, even the shyest kid asks to take their chance in the spotlight, and parents always notice the difference by the time the final curtain falls.

The idea that art can influence life has long been in existence, and drama classes at camp allow kids to express their creativity while building their confidence in front of an audience. While your kid may just think they are having fun in their drama program, you will know that they are learning skills that they will use throughout their life.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

Building Memories at Summer Camp

Summer represents a time full of possibilities for kids to expand their horizons and make beautiful memories and summer camp offers the perfect environment for kids to truly tap into their interests and connect with others. Today, summer camp adventures range from traditional activities such as campfire songs to volunteer opportunities and multi-day excursions into the wilderness. In fact, going to summer camp helps kids build beautiful childhood memories by stimulating their growth and development in the following areas:

Conquering Challenges

Learning how to overcome fear and accomplish goals is an important part of childhood that often leads to some of the strongest memories. Whether a child has never jumped off a diving board before or spent the night in the wilderness, they will be provided with support from caring members of the summer camp team along with their peers until they reach their goal. Remembering how they scored their first soccer goal or swam across the lake strengthens a child’s self-esteem and encourages them to tackle bigger challenges as they approach adulthood.

Forming Diverse Friendships

Ask any child about their time in summer camp and you will be inundated with stories involving their friends. At summer camp, kids come to stay from all over the world, giving your child the opportunity to form friendships with their peers from all different types of backgrounds. From silly camp pranks to late night chats in the cabin, summer camp friendships are the kind that can only be formed through long hours spent together. Over the course of the summer, kids cherish these friends like family and share memories throughout the year as they keep in touch.

Participating in Creative Pursuits

Summer camp is a place where kids tend to blossom and it is not uncommon for a family to discover that their wallflower has suddenly transformed into an amazing dancer at a camp dance recital. Camp crafts, such as pottery and jewelry making, also provide kids with an outlet for creative expression that leaves them with a tangible object that reminds them of their days at camp. Often, these creative opportunities lead to lifelong interests in music and art that kids always remember began at summer camp.

Strengthening Family Bonds

It may seem strange to think that going away for the summer will help a child bond with their family, but it really is true that absence makes the heart grow fonder. At summer camp, kids gain independence that provides them with a different understanding of the importance of family. Summer camps also offer fun family days during which siblings and parents can observe and participate in some of their kid’s favorite camp activities. Family camps often top off the end of the season with a weeklong adventure that allows families to form amazing memories as they indulge their playful sides in an outdoor environment.

Summer camp memories fill scrapbooks, online albums and most importantly hearts with all of the wonderful activities that took place during the season. At camp, kids spend every moment of the day engaged in activities that stimulate their mental and physical development. From forming close friendships to gaining new skills, the memories made at camp last a lifetime.

Monday, August 1, 2016

Fun Things to Do During Summer

Summer and fun pretty much go hand-in-hand for youngsters, whether they’re off to summer camp, taking a family vacation, building endless sand castles at the beach or just biking around the neighborhood. But with many parents working and lots of kids in organized daytime activities from recreation programs to specialized camps, it’s fun to plan some special days for family fun.

Plan a Day Trip

You don’t have to travel far to have fun as a family; a key component is letting the kids get in on the planning phase. Surf around the Internet or leaf through some brochures for nearby attractions or activities. If you have several youngsters, it’s a great lesson in compromise and team work to come up with an itinerary that will please everyone. Whether it’s the local zoo, a historic attraction or an amusement park or a combination of a bunch of places, the key component is that everyone has a little invested in the trip and it’s a real group effort for a day of family fun.

Water, Water Anywhere

You have to do it in summer; head to the water, no matter where you live. Pack it up for the day and head out to the beach, the lake, the local pool or even a splash park. Let your youngsters help assemble a picnic lunch and snacks and, if you have room, take along a friend or two to keep older kids entertained.

Back to Nature

It’s been found that kids exposed early to nature grow up with a great respect for the planet and all its life forms. Find a kid-friendly activity that will get your youngster up close and personal with the fascinating wildlife in your locale. Nature trails, zoos, hiking paths, ponds, beaches and rivers all present bountiful opportunities to observe even the tiniest of life forms. Try your hand (or ear) at identifying various bird calls, look for starfish in tide pools or check out the fascinating variety of life forms that have taken up residence under fallen logs.

Old Fashioned Fun

Try out the old-time tradition of the neighborhood block party. It’s a great way to meet the folks around you that you may not already know, and the multi-generational aspect is great for kids and old timers alike. Walk around the neighborhood with your children and pass out flyers they’ve helped design. Keep the menu summery and simple, allowing everyone to contribute; think hot dogs and hamburgers, potato salad and loads of watermelon and ice cream! If it’s permissible in your state, have a few sparklers and back yard fireworks at the end for a truly festive flair. There will likely be flocks of kids running through the dark while the grown-ups chat and enjoy the balmy summer evening.

When the Stars Come Out

Have you ever noticed how different the sky looks whey you just lay flat on your back and gaze upwards? Pick a clear night and set out some blankets in the back yard and just relax and pick out the constellations with your child. If you don’t know the stars well yourself, do a bit of research. Older children may enjoy helping look up the constellations and learning the stories behind the names. If you have an observatory nearby, check out the schedule of viewings. Kids are fascinated by the wonders of space.

If you're considering sending your child to an overnight summer camp, be sure to visit our site to learn about Camp Walt Whitman. Located in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Camp Walt Whitman offers a safe, nurturing environment in a beautiful mountain setting. Our camp is a coed sleepaway camp, with separate areas for boys and girls. The kids have a blast, and make friendships that can last a lifetime. Learn what campers say about summer camp at CWW: http://www.campwalt.com/our-location.html

Thursday, June 30, 2016

Cooking Classes at Summer Camp

Summer camp is known for being a place where kids can explore new interests, while benefiting from the experience of a trained instructor, and cooking classes are one more fun way for kids to learn skills at camp that they will use for a lifetime. Cooking at camp goes well beyond roasting hot dogs over a campfire. In fact, kids at camp get to enjoy state-of-the-art equipment as they practice their culinary skills. While they may think they’re simply having fun, you can enjoy knowing that they are gaining the following benefits from their summer camp cooking classes.

Strengthen Math Skills

Many kids struggle with challenging mathematical skills such as adding fractions. In the camp kitchen, opportunities to practice these critical skills are everywhere. For example, kids often have to add or multiply fractions when they are increasing a recipe. Weighing ingredients, converting between the metric and imperial measuring systems and calculating cooking times are all ways kids learn math in the kitchen.

Experiment with Science

The science involved in the cooking process is often overlooked, yet every recipe is a chance for kids to learn about chemistry, physics and nutrition. From learning about the Maillard reaction as they brown meat to using salt to lower the freezing point of ice, kids will have fun while also learning essential science concepts. The best part about learning science in the kitchen is that it is the one time when kids can eat the final product. Camp cooking classes also foster an environment where they are more willing to try new foods and learn about the importance of good nutrition for their health.

Develop Greater Independence

Parents are often surprised at how much growing up their kids do over the summer and cooking classes at camp are a big part of them developing more independence. In the camp kitchen, kids are responsible for prepping ingredients, cooking meals and cleaning it all up afterwards. Since everyone is required to help out, kids naturally take on greater responsibilities that give them a sense of pride.

Nurture Creativity and Self-Confidence

The difference between a regular cook and an excellent chef is the ability to combine ingredients into creative new recipes. At summer camp cooking classes, kids have a safe place where they can take risks with their culinary skills. If a recipe doesn’t work out, all that is lost is a little time and a few ingredients. Yet, even a recipe that doesn’t turn out right is not a failure since kids learn from what went wrong and go on to recreate the dish using their findings. Many new recipes have been created in a camp kitchen and kids gain self-confidence when they can share their signature dish with others.

Taking cooking classes at summer camp helps kids round out their active schedule with an activity that teaches skills they will use throughout their lives. While it may seem like a fun way to enhance the typical camper’s menu, kids who take cooking classes learn academic and social skills that are best taught in the exciting and interactive environment offered by the camp kitchen. From pulling apart fresh baked monkey bread to making granola bars to share with friends on the trail, each cooking class at summer camp is always a new adventure.

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Highlights of the Summer Camp Experience

Going to summer camp is an enriching experience that changes a kid’s life for the better. Every boy and girl should be able to enjoy all of the opportunities for personal development that will impact every aspect of their life. While summer camp stories are full of jokes about camp food and cabin pranks, the truth is that there is far more to summer camp than telling stories around the campfire. In addition to the classic camping adventures, here are some more highlights of summer camp that every kid should experience.

Improve Athletic Performance

Sports programs in schools have expanded to include more options such as tennis, lacrosse and gymnastics. However, the summer break can cause kids to lose critical skills which can have an impact on their performance. At summer camp, kids can utilize their break to participate in fun, challenging training sessions along with friendly competitions that will keep their skills fresh. Playing in inter-camp competitions also lets kids learn new techniques from others who share their love of a favorite sport.

Get Comfortable On the Water

Summer camp wouldn’t be summer camp without a daily dip in a lake or pool. In fact, many kids find that their swimsuit is the most important piece of clothing they pack. Younger kids and new campers always begin with swimming lessons to teach them water safety. Once a camper knows how to swim, the options are limitless. Water skiing, wakeboarding, kayaking and canoeing are just a few fun ways for kids to step out of their comfort zone and learn how to maneuver safely across the water.

Develop Creative Expression

Summer camp crafts have come a long way since the days of making lanyards. Today, kids have a ton of options for developing their creativity. Pottery is a favorite summer camp craft that they can literally sink their hands into and woodworking is another popular class that allows them to make everything from a chessboard to a jewelry box for mom. Kids who prefer drama can also put on plays and talent shows for their fellow campers. Budding guitarists and drummers can also hone their skills with lessons and form a band to serenade their friends around the campfire.

Give Back to the Community

At summer camp, kids learn what it means to participate in building a community. From welcoming newcomers to helping clean up the cabin, kids develop a sense of ownership and personal responsibility regarding their camp environment. As campers progress through the different age levels, they also begin to expand their reach to other parts of the community. For example, swim-a-thons are a fun way for kids to raise funds for underprivileged kids to visit camp, and campers are encouraged to help out with established programs to build homes and stock food pantries in neighboring communities.

Camping, hiking and horseback riding are a few things kids expect when they go to summer camp. Yet, the summer camp experience encompasses far more than some outdoor adventures. From learning to help others to improving their skill set, kids at summer camp always return home transformed by their experiences.