Gain some inside info from our question and answer session with three experienced local camp directors.
Did you attend camp as a child? If so, what was your favorite part?
AA I attended an overnight camp a couple of times. My favorite part was the same that I hear from our campers: the camp community!
KC Yes! Summer camp was always a highlight! I have fond memories of building Rube Goldberg machines and spending most of my summer days playing sports from sunrise to sunset. Camp allowed me to try new things, gain confidence, and build friendships.
MT I attended our Playground Program during the summer and enjoyed all the sports and outdoor games.
What is the role of a camp director in a nutshell?
AA Facilitate everything that goes into creating a memorable and meaningful camper experience and provide opportunities for girls to try new things, grow within themselves, and, of course, have fun.
KC Create a vibrant and inclusive camp culture, uphold safety standards, and provide support to staff members. They’re also involved in communication with parents, community outreach, and budget management. Ultimately, they play a crucial role in shaping the camp’s mission, fostering a supportive environment, and facilitating memorable experiences for all.
What should parents/guardians think about most when choosing a camp?
AA Camp philosophy and values, inclusion and diversity practices, safety measures, programming, communication protocol, facilities, registration flexibility, and lastly, camper independence and personal growth.
KC Camp values, safety, diverse and inclusive programming, as well as a friendly and welcoming environment.
Pros and cons of trying new camps versus sticking with old favorites?
AA New camps offer campers the opportunity to meet new friends and try new activities. Familiar camps let campers build on existing friendships and relive favorite traditions.
KC New camps provide an opportunity for fresh experiences, diverse activities, and the chance to meet new friends. New camps encourage campers to step out of their comfort zones, foster personal growth, and expose them to a broader range of interests. Potential downsides include the uncertainty of the camp experience, adjustment challenges, and the risk of not meeting expectations.
MT New camps mean new experiences that allow a child to discover different interests but could cause some anxiety. Old favorites provide consistency, comfort, and confidence.
What recommendations would you make for a first-time camper? For others?
AA Support your child no matter what they are feeling—nervous, excited, or both—by asking questions and modeling curiosity. Ask: “What sounds like an activity you will enjoy?” “What is something you are wondering about?” “I wonder what you will get to try?”
KC Have an open and positive conversation with the child about what to expect. Discuss the fun activities, new friends, and the supportive staff to alleviate any concerns.
MT Definitely prepare your child beforehand and be supportive. Open communication with the staff is key.
For a shyer child
AA It’s important to understand that every child has different social needs, and these needs can change over time. In the all-girls community of Summer at Santa Catalina, we intentionally design our camp days to encourage connection across interests and age groups.
KC Encourage participation in smaller group activities initially to help build comfort and connections.
MT Prepare your child and be supportive as well as communicative to the staff. Shyer children need to be eased into activities. Finding a friend who they can connect with helps.
For a more active kid
AA Look for a camp with adventurous activities and the ability to try something new. Our campers love picking their own classes—taking a marine biology class, ceramics, sports, and dance, all in one day!
KC Choose camps that offer a variety of high-energy and physically engaging activities to keep the child stimulated and excited throughout the camp day!
MT Make sure that the program fits offering more things outdoors and a variety of activities with smooth transitions.
For an artsy little one
AA Summer at Santa Catalina offers a wide variety of visual and performing arts activities starting at age 7, and our musical theater program is open to campers ages 8–14.
KC Ensure the camp environment is supportive of self-expression, allowing the child to embrace and showcase their creative side.
MT There should be a variety of activities that allow the child to express themselves and be creative while also getting them to come out of their comfort zone and explore something new.
For an older child
AA Look for camps that offer leadership opportunities. Our goal is for campers to identify their own leadership strengths and styles while building inner resources to grow from conflict and failure.
KC Consider camps with specialized programs that align with their specific interests, whether leadership, adventure, or academic pursuits. Encourage your child to actively engage with peers through games, team-building, and shared experiences.
MT Definitely look for ways that your child can gain leadership skills while still having fun.
JESSICA THIBAULT is a communications/events professional and Monterey Public Library Friends & Foundation board member. She leads the 2023 Monterey Military Babies group, is a trained Mothers and Babies Program facilitator, and is an RRCA-certified running coach.