There is a strong emphasis on instruction in all of our activities, in camp or out. We want the boys to have as much fun as a summer should hold, but we also want them to have the chance to learn skills that can enrich their lives beyond childhood. Almost every activity has a rating system that gives boys the chance to set short-term goals and experience the sense of accomplishment that comes with skill mastery. The project-oriented activities like photography, pottery and woodworking involve instruction during the process of carrying out the real work of the particular craft.

Celebrating Success

Time is spent at the end of every meal celebrating the accomplishments of individual campers. Counselors make announcements to the entire camp about successes large and small. The wood shop counselor holds high a box or a lamp completed that day; the swimming counselor announces that a boy made a successful dive for the first time, or completed the requirements for a particular level; we hear about a remarkable score on the Frisbee golf course, or a challenge met on the high ropes course. At these times the entire camp applauds a fellow camper’s success.