Summer camp is a magical time for kids, filled with opportunities to make new friends, explore the outdoors, and create lasting memories. As a camp coordinator, your role is vital in ensuring that these experiences are safe, fun, and enriching. Planning activities for kids at camp requires creativity, organization, and a keen understanding of the campers’ needs and interests. Here’s how to successfully coordinate activities that keep kids engaged and excited.

PRINTABLE ACTIVITY GUIDES

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1. Understand Your Campers

Before planning activities, it’s essential to know the age group, interests, and abilities of your campers. For younger kids, focus on imaginative play and simple crafts, while older children may prefer sports, team challenges, or creative workshops. Consider including activities that cater to diverse interests, such as art, science, outdoor adventures, and team sports.

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2. Build a Balanced Schedule

A well-rounded schedule is the cornerstone of a successful camp experience. Balance high-energy activities like hiking, swimming, and sports with quieter options such as storytelling, journaling, or crafts. Include rest periods and snack breaks to help kids recharge and stay engaged throughout the day.

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3. Incorporate Team-Building Activities

Summer camp is an excellent opportunity for kids to build social skills and develop friendships. Incorporate activities that encourage teamwork and collaboration, such as:

Scavenger Hunts: Promote teamwork as kids work together to solve clues.

Relay Races: Encourage friendly competition and cooperation.

Group Art Projects: Allow everyone to contribute to a shared masterpiece.

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4. Get Creative with Themes

Adding a theme to your activities can make camp more exciting and memorable. For example:

Pirate Adventure Day: Treasure hunts, map-making, and pirate costumes.

Nature Explorers: Guided hikes, bug hunts, and nature crafts.

Olympic Games: Mini competitions and medal ceremonies.

Themes create a cohesive experience and encourage kids to immerse themselves in the fun.

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5. Plan for All Weather Conditions

Summer weather can be unpredictable, so prepare activities for both sunny and rainy days. For sunny days, prioritize outdoor games, nature walks, or water activities. On rainy days, move indoors with board games, storytelling, or a talent show.

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6. Prioritize Safety

Safety should always come first when coordinating activities. Here are some key tips:

Ensure proper supervision for all activities.

Use age-appropriate equipment and games.

Teach and enforce safety rules, especially for activities like swimming or hiking.

Have a first aid kit readily available and know the camp’s emergency procedures.

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7. Encourage Camper Input

Allow campers to have a voice in the activities they participate in. Conduct a quick survey at the start of the camp to understand their interests or provide a “free choice” period where kids can select from multiple options. This empowers campers and ensures they stay engaged.

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8. End Each Day on a High Note

Wrap up each day with a fun group activity that fosters a sense of community, such as a campfire with songs and stories, a talent showcase, or a reflection circle where kids can share their favorite moments.

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9. Engage with Your Campers

The kids love it if you are playing, refereeing or are in any way part of the game. Avoid being a spectator or sideliner; get involved and play as many games as you’re comfortable with. Whatever we have the kids do we should do!

10. Evaluate and Adapt

After each day or session, reflect on what worked and what didn’t. Seek feedback from campers and staff, and use it to refine your plans for the next day. Flexibility is key to meeting the ever-changing needs of your campers.

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Coordinating activities for kids at summer camp is a rewarding challenge that requires thoughtfulness, creativity, and adaptability. By planning engaging, diverse, and safe activities, you can help create an unforgettable summer experience that kids will treasure for years to come.

Marketing a summer camp can be both exciting and challenging. You’re not just selling a program; you’re providing an experience that shapes childhood memories and skills. To fill your camp with eager participants, it’s essential to develop a marketing strategy that appeals to both parents and kids. Here are some effective tips to market your summer camp and stand out in a competitive field.

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1. Define Your Unique Selling Points (USPs)

What sets your summer camp apart? Is it the location, specialized activities, or a focus on personal development? Highlight these USPs in all your marketing efforts. For example:

Do you offer STEM-focused programs?

Are there renowned instructors or exclusive partnerships?

Is your camp eco-friendly or adventure-centric?

Make sure your unique features are front and center in your branding and messaging.

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2. Build a User-Friendly Website

Your website is your digital storefront. Make sure it’s attractive, easy to navigate, and packed with essential information, such as:

Camp schedules and pricing.

Safety measures and certifications.

Testimonials from past campers and parents.

High-quality photos and videos showcasing camp life.

Include a clear call-to-action (CTA), such as “Register Now,” on every page to encourage sign-ups.

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3. Leverage Social Media

Social media platforms are perfect for showcasing the fun and excitement of your summer camp. Here’s how to maximize their impact:

Instagram: Post vibrant photos and videos of past camps, including daily activities, happy campers, and scenic locations.

Facebook: Share detailed updates, upcoming events, and long-form testimonials from parents and campers.

TikTok: Create short, engaging clips showing unique camp traditions, games, or behind-the-scenes content.

YouTube: Upload videos like virtual tours, camper testimonials, or “day in the life” vlogs.

Encourage past campers and parents to tag your camp in their posts and use a branded hashtag.

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4. Offer Early Bird Discounts

Parents appreciate affordability. Attract early registrations by offering discounts or exclusive perks for signing up before a certain date. Pair these promotions with a countdown timer on your website and social media platforms to create urgency.

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5. Build Relationships with Schools and Communities

Collaborate with local schools, community centers, and libraries to spread the word about your camp. Offer free workshops or fun activities to introduce your camp to the community. Distribute flyers or brochures in high-traffic areas where parents are likely to see them.

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6. Harness the Power of Reviews and Testimonials

Parents trust the opinions of other parents. Gather testimonials from satisfied families and share them on your website, social media, and promotional materials. Video testimonials from kids describing their favorite activities can be especially compelling.

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7. Use Email Marketing

Reach out to past campers and new leads with engaging email campaigns. Share updates, early bird offers, and sneak peeks of what’s planned for the upcoming season. Keep your emails short, visually appealing, and mobile-friendly.

Pro Tip: Supplement Your Email Marketing with a Communication App to keep your parents in the loop before, during, and in between camps.

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8. Create Engaging Content

Position your camp as an authority in child development and summer fun by creating valuable content, such as:

Blog posts like “How Summer Camps Build Confidence in Kids” or “Top 5 Reasons to Send Your Child to Camp.”

Infographics on the benefits of summer camps.

Downloadable packing checklists or activity guides.

This content not only promotes your camp but also improves your website’s SEO, helping you attract more traffic.

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9. Run Targeted Ads

Use Google Ads and social media advertising to reach parents searching for summer camps. Target specific demographics, such as age ranges, geographic areas, and parental interests. Ensure your ads link to a well-designed landing page optimized for conversions.

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10. Host Open Houses or Virtual Tours

Invite parents and kids to visit your camp or attend a virtual tour. Show them what makes your camp special by introducing key staff, showcasing facilities, and sharing your values. These events build trust and excitement.

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Conclusion

Marketing your summer camp effectively requires a mix of creativity, strategy, and relationship-building. By focusing on your unique offerings, creating engaging content, and fostering trust with parents, you can ensure your camp is the go-to choice for summer fun. Start planning your marketing efforts early, and watch your camp fill up with happy campers!

Summer camps are a cherished tradition for kids and teenagers, offering a unique blend of adventure, learning, and personal growth. However, the magic of camp doesn’t happen on its own—it’s made possible by a well-prepared, enthusiastic, and skilled team of camp staff. To ensure every camper has a memorable and safe experience, comprehensive staff training is critical.

Here’s a deep dive into how summer camp staff training sets the stage for a successful season.

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Why Staff Training Matters

1. Safety First: Camp staff are responsible for the well-being of campers, which includes managing physical safety, addressing medical needs, and creating an emotionally supportive environment.

2. Team Cohesion: A cohesive team works more effectively. Training helps staff understand their roles and responsibilities while building trust and camaraderie among teammates.

3. Camper Engagement: Staff who are confident and equipped with the right tools can create engaging and transformative experiences for campers.

4. Crisis Management: From severe weather to behavioral challenges, camp life is unpredictable. Training ensures staff are prepared to handle emergencies with composure and professionalism.

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Key Components of Summer Camp Staff Training

1. Orientation

Mission and Values: Begin with the camp’s mission, vision, and core values to align the staff’s mindset with the camp’s goals.

Program Overview: Provide a detailed understanding of the camp schedule, activities, and special events.

Meet the Team: Introduce leadership, returning staff, and new hires to foster a sense of community from the outset.

2. Health and Safety Protocols

First Aid and CPR: Ensure all staff are certified and know how to respond to injuries or health emergencies.

Child Protection Policies: Teach staff how to recognize and report signs of abuse and maintain professional boundaries.

Emergency Preparedness: Conduct drills for fires, severe weather, and other potential emergencies.

3. Activity-Specific Training

Train staff on the technical skills needed for their assigned activities, whether it’s lifeguarding, leading arts and crafts, or supervising ropes courses.

Emphasize safety guidelines and risk management for high-adventure activities.

4. Behavior Management

Provide strategies for handling conflicts, homesickness, and challenging behaviors with patience and empathy.

Train staff to create inclusive environments that support diverse backgrounds, abilities, and interests.

5. Leadership Development

Equip staff with communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills to effectively lead campers and activities.

Emphasize the importance of being role models through positive behavior and attitude.

6. Cultural Competency and Inclusion

Teach staff to embrace diversity and promote an inclusive camp environment.

Highlight the importance of respecting cultural differences, gender identities, and unique camper needs.

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Practical Tips for Effective Training

1. Engage with Hands-On Learning: Simulations, role-playing, and scenario-based exercises help staff apply their training in a controlled setting.

2. Leverage Veteran Staff: Returning staff can share their experiences and mentor new hires, creating a supportive learning environment.

3. Encourage Feedback: Use open discussions and surveys to gather input from staff on what they need to feel prepared.

4. Ongoing Training: Reinforce skills throughout the season with refresher sessions, team meetings, and performance reviews.

5. Supplement with Outside Resources: You don’t have to do it all yourself. Use online resources and courses to supplement your in house training program.

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Building a Positive Culture Through Training

An effective training program not only equips staff with skills but also fosters a positive camp culture. By emphasizing teamwork, respect, and fun, staff training can set the tone for a season filled with energy, connection, and growth—for both staff and campers.

Remember, a well-trained team is the heart of a successful camp experience. With the right preparation, your camp staff will be ready to make lifelong memories for every camper who walks through your gates.

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Conclusion

Staff training is the cornerstone of any successful summer camp. By prioritizing safety, skill development, and teamwork, camps can empower their staff to create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. So, as you gear up for the next camp season, invest the time and resources in thorough, thoughtful training—it’s worth it!

Summer camps are a cherished tradition that offer kids and teens opportunities to explore new interests, build friendships, and create lifelong memories. Planning a successful summer camp, however, takes careful thought and preparation. Whether you’re organizing a camp for a community group, school, or private organization, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create a summer camp experience that’s both enjoyable and impactful.

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Step 1: Define Your Camp’s Purpose and Theme

Before diving into logistics, it’s important to establish the overarching goal of your camp. Is it about outdoor adventure, fostering creativity, academic enrichment, or team building? A clear purpose will help shape all other aspects of the camp.

Example Themes:

Nature and Adventure

STEM Exploration

Arts and Creativity

Sports and Fitness

Leadership and Teamwork

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Step 2: Choose the Right Location

Whether you already have a facility or are evaluating new facilities, the camp’s location sets the stage for the experience. Decide whether you’ll host it at a local park, a dedicated campsite, or an indoor facility. When selecting a site, consider the following:

Accessibility and transportation

Availability of amenities (bathrooms, kitchens, meeting rooms)

Safety measures and first aid access

Capacity to accommodate your expected group size

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Step 3: Develop a Camp Schedule

A well-structured schedule is the backbone of any successful camp. Balance high-energy activities with downtime to keep participants engaged without overwhelming them. Be sure to include details on activities, crafts, and trips. Build in flexibility for unforeseen changes like weather or unexpected delays.

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Step 4: Recruit and Train Staff

The camp’s success heavily relies on its staff. Recruit counselors, activity leaders, and support staff who are passionate, responsible, and experienced in working with children. Use online resources to help supplement your in person training.

Training Essentials:

Safety protocols and first aid

Behavior management techniques

Activity facilitation and conflict resolution

Communication skills

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Step 5: Plan Activities and Materials

Design activities that align with your camp’s theme and cater to different age groups and interests. Make a checklist of supplies needed for each activity to avoid last-minute scrambles. Popular activities can include:

Hiking and nature exploration

Arts and crafts

Team sports and games

Science experiments

Leadership challenges and group problem-solving

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Step 6: Establish Safety Protocols

Safety should be a top priority. Create a detailed plan to ensure participants’ well-being throughout the camp. Key considerations include:

Emergency contact information, and basic medical information such as allergies for all campers

A stocked first-aid kit along with proper training and protocols

Clear instructions for responding to incidents or injuries

Staff-to-camper ratio to ensure proper supervision

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Step 7: Market Your Camp

Promote your camp to attract participants. Be sure to include key details: camp dates, location, theme, fees, and registration deadlines. Use a mix of online and offline marketing strategies, such as:

Social media posts and email campaigns

Flyers and posters in community centers or schools

Hosting a pre-camp information session for parents

Use an App to Send Notifications to Current and Past Participants

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Step 8: Gather Feedback and Reflect

At the end of the camp, collect feedback from campers, parents, and staff to assess what went well and where improvements can be made. Use surveys or informal discussions to gain insights. This will help you make your next camp even better.

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Final Thoughts

Planning a summer camp takes effort, but the rewards are well worth it. By focusing on a clear vision, attention to detail, and a commitment to fun and safety, you can create a camp experience that will be remembered for years to come.

Hiring the right summer camp staff can make or break the success of your camp season. These individuals will be at the heart of your camp experience, shaping the memories of campers and ensuring their safety and enjoyment. The process can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can build a team of passionate, reliable, and skilled staff members. Here’s a guide to help you hire the best summer camp staff.

1. Define Your Needs and Values

Before starting the hiring process, outline the roles and responsibilities required at your camp. Do you need counselors, lifeguards, activity specialists, or kitchen staff? Consider the values and mission of your camp, as your staff should align with these. For example, if your camp emphasizes outdoor adventure, look for candidates with enthusiasm for nature and experience in outdoor activities.

2. Start Early

The best candidates start looking for summer opportunities months in advance. Begin your hiring process as early as possible—many camps start recruiting in the fall or winter for the following summer. Early hiring gives you access to a larger pool of applicants and allows time for thorough vetting and training.

3. Leverage Multiple Recruitment Channels

Use a variety of platforms to find candidates:

Camp Job Boards: There are many websites out there that are great for reaching potential hires.

Social Media: Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn allow you to showcase your camp’s unique culture.

Local Networks: Partner with colleges, universities, and community centers to recruit students or young professionals looking for summer opportunities.

Alumni Networks: Past campers or staff members often make excellent hires because they’re already familiar with your camp’s culture.

4. Prioritize Personality Over Experience

While experience is valuable, passion, enthusiasm, and adaptability are often better indicators of a successful camp staffer. Look for candidates who demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and a genuine love for working with children.

5. Conduct Thorough Interviews

Develop an interview process that assesses both hard and soft skills. Here are some ideas:

Scenario-Based Questions: Ask how candidates would handle situations like homesick campers or conflicts between staff.

Behavioral Questions: Learn how they’ve demonstrated teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving in the past.

Role-Specific Tests: For example, ask a potential lifeguard to discuss water safety protocols or camp counselor to share an activity idea.

6. Check References and Backgrounds

Working with children is a big responsibility, so always verify candidates’ references and conduct background checks. Reach out to previous employers or mentors to confirm their skills and reliability.

7. Offer Competitive Perks

Attract top talent by providing competitive pay and benefits. While camp jobs are often seen as more about experience than income, perks like room and board, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work in a fun, dynamic environment can make your camp stand out.

8. Invest in Training and Team Building

Even the best hires need preparation to succeed. Offer comprehensive training that covers safety protocols, communication skills, conflict resolution, and role-specific responsibilities. Pre-camp team-building activities can help staff bond and establish a sense of camaraderie before the campers arrive.

9. Foster a Positive Culture

Creating a supportive and inclusive environment helps retain staff year after year. Encourage feedback, recognize accomplishments, and provide opportunities for growth. Happy staff are not only more effective but are also likely to return for future seasons.

10. Build a Talent Pipeline for the Future

Maintain connections with standout staff, volunteers (CIT’s) and campers who could be future hires. Keep them engaged through newsletters, social media, or off-season events to strengthen their ties to your camp.

Conclusion

Hiring summer camp staff requires careful planning, outreach, and consideration. By focusing on your camp’s values, starting the process early, and investing in your team, you can ensure that your camp is staffed with motivated individuals who create a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Prepare thoughtfully, recruit wisely, and enjoy the rewards of a successful camp season!

Technology is important in all facets of our lives and it is no difference in your camp operation. Technology can be intimidating, may come with a cost, and can be time consuming to implement, but will pay dividends in the long run. Here are different types of technology you can implement to make your operation more efficient and streamlined.

1. Online Registration Websites, Software, or Apps. The first thing you should do to streamline your operations is invest in online registration. Online registration platforms have been around for many years and if you are still taking registration by hand and in person, you are falling behind and doing a lot of unnecessary work. These platforms make it easier and more efficient on the front end for parents and on the back end for administrators to manage your rosters. Every camp or rec program should without a doubt have one.

2. Booking Systems. Are you using a manual calendar or spreadsheet to keep track of booking your facilities, activities, or events? There are many automated booking systems that you can use that will take this on for you. Many times registration platforms also come with booking systems that will further streamline your operations on the front end for customers and the back end for you as the administrator.

3. Websites. A website for marketing your organization and programs is essential and is another extremely common tool that everyone should have. Just about everyone has a website, but unfortunately there are many that do not keep it up to date or are unwilling to invest in making it better. Your website is the face of your organization for many and should also be the information hub for your programs to where participants don’t have to call or come in to get it.

4. Email Marketing Platforms. An email marketing platform will help you reach current, past, and future participants more effectively. Use email marketing platforms to create better content, start a newsletter, fundraise, or sell merchandise.

5. Communication and Management Tools. We provide this type of tool to camps with our Camp Source App because many times communication, organization, and access to information gets forgotten. As camps are focusing on running their program, parents get left out of the loop which results in more questions or complaints. Improving your communication and organization will instantly improve your program. At The Summer Camp Source, we developed the Camp Source App to greatly improve communication within your camp programs and keep you and your parents organized with all your important camp updates and reminders.

6. HR, Accounting, and Payroll Software. Take away some of the time you spend on menial administrative tasks and let these types of platforms handle it for you.

7. Information Sharing Platforms. These systems are for both internal and external communication and document sharing. Sometimes our email systems are not always the best way to communicate and share information. For several reasons such as crowded in boxes, security, and limitations sometimes it is easier to invest in a system that everyone can access to share files, sign documents, store documents, and use other forms of communication.

8. Maintenance Management Systems. Facility maintenance can be a tall task and many times goes to the wayside for other priority items due to the cost and time. Maintenance management systems will help you stay on track with routine maintenance of your facilities along with on demand work orders that come up with things need repairing or replacing. They can also help with your equipment repairs and asset inventory to make sure all aspects of your maintenance operation is running as efficiently and cost effective as possible.

9. Fundraising Platforms. There are many tools you can use to assist in your fundraising efforts. Help reach more people, make it easier for them to donate, keep better track of transactions, and make it easier for you as the administrator to manage fundraising campaigns.

10. Updated Electronics and Interactive Technology: No, we don’t want kids to play video games or be on their phones all day within your rec programs. However, there are many different types of interactive technology you can incorporate into your camp activities. Also, having things like a projector for movies and a nice sound system for music can make your activities more enjoyable for participants.

Technology is one of those things that sometimes we feel we don’t need it and can do things the same old way, but when we have it we ask ourselves how we got by without it. Identify where you are spending too much time or could use assistance managing an area of your operation and do the necessary research to find what works for you. It is important you put the time and effort needed for technology so you don’t fall behind and can continue to take your camps to the next level!

The Camp Source App is your passport for a camp season of fun and adventure. Our streamlined and easy to use platform will always keep your parents informed in real time and give them an inside look at all of your camp adventures. Send updates and reminders, share documents, schedules, pictures and much more to give your parents easy access to the important information they need all camp long. Take your camps to the next level with the Camp Source App!

Behind every unforgettable summer camp experience is a dedicated and passionate camp director. These leaders play a crucial role in shaping the lives of campers, creating a safe and supportive environment, and fostering a sense of community and belonging. But running a summer camp comes with its own unique set of challenges and responsibilities. That’s why it’s essential for camp directors to have access to the right resources and support systems to ensure success.

Here are three tips to improve your camp training and education to make sure your staff have the resources needed to be successful at camp:

Take advantage of outside resources for new ideas. There are several great resources online that can provide you tools and education to improve your camp. Continually search and seek out new ideas that may benefit your camp to keep things fresh for your staff and participants.

Stay on top of industry standards and best practices. Similar to researching new ideas for camp, you also want to stay on top of the current trends, technology, and industry standards. Not just from an operational standpoint, but new legislations that may bring legal aspects of how you have to operate. Stay in touch with some of the national camp organizations that provide these resources, visit camp conferences and expos, and do your own research to stay up to date on the latest trends. Things are always changing and evolving so make sure your camp doesn’t fall behind to the old way of doing things.

Provide networking opportunities to collaborate with other camp professionals to connect and share ideas. Networking is important and another way to stay on top of all the things we have talked about above. Seeing and hearing how others are operating is great way to see how you can compare and potentially improve your camp. Ask questions, share ideas, and tell stories to connect with others in the field. Networking is not only for Camp Directors, bring your staff into the mix too! Here are a few ways you can connect with others in the field:

• Join an professional association in the industry

• Connect online
  
• Team up with others in your area for joint activities or regular networking meetings.

Looking to enhance the camp experience? CampHQ is your headquarters for Premium Camp Resources. We offer a wide range of activities, educational content, training resources, guides, and much more. For a small annual membership, you will have access to all of our camp resources below. Whether you offer a day camp, overnight camp, or any specialty camp, we can provide curriculum ideas, staff training materials, and activities that align with your unique camp goals. 

Join today to take your camps to the next level!

​Lack of communication is the #1 reason a camp parent will complain. With so many moving parts at camp it can be very difficult to make sure all parents get all the important information they will need to be a part of your program.

We all try our best to email out information prior to camp, place information in our parent handbooks, post on our website or social media, and even give information in person at registration or at the camp check out desk. There are still always parents who will tell you “I never received it” or “I didn’t know” and then complain that it was our fault. Here are some guidelines to improve your communication at camp:

1. Use Multiple Platforms to Communicate: Email, social media, apps, websites, phone calls, text, and face to face meetings are all examples of ways to communicate to your participants and those interested in your program. If you are using multiple communication channels both internally and externally, and your participants know where to find the information, there should be no reason a participant tells you “they didn’t know” when something comes up.
   
2. Communicate Before and After your Camp Season: Once you release your initial dates, make sure to remind people as you get closer to registration. Don’t just assume they will remember! Once camp ends, let your participants know the next start dates before they finish. Once you have them in the door, keep them in by always letting them know when the next program takes place.
   
3. Communicate During Registration: Whether your participants register online or in person it is important that they have all the needed information for the upcoming camp. Make sure your participants are ready and prepared for their fist day. If you have a registration window, make sure you are sending reminders leading up to your first date.
   
4. Send Weekly Communications During Camp: At a minimum you should send your parents an email at least once a week. In the email recap the week and give any updates or important information for the coming weeks. If there is nothing to report on, it can be as simple as letting them know it was a great week and you look forward to the next week while outlining upcoming activities. You can turn this into a program newsletter, add pictures or multi-media, and showcase all those special moments you had that week at camp.
   
5. Set Up a Line of Communication with Staff and Volunteers: Make sure everyone involved in the daily operation of your camp is in the loop on your operation on a daily basis. Sometimes, the most frustrating thing for a staff member or volunteer is being left out and having to figure out what they are supposed to be doing. Review the days schedule and activities every morning and check in with your staff when time permits throughout the day.
   
6. Be Responsive: If you get a question or concern that comes in person, email, or over the phone make sure you respond to the inquiry as soon as you can. At the very least, acknowledge you received the message within 24 hours even if you need time to research the situation. This will go a long way in keeping your participants happy and trusting you will address their needs.
   
   What if you had a way to have all your camp information on one place at the tip of your parents fingers and can notify them in real time with the click of a button?

The Camp Source App is your passport for a camp season of fun and adventure. Our streamlined and easy to use platform will always keep your parents informed in real time and give them an inside look at all of your camp adventures. Send updates and reminders, share documents, schedules, pictures and much more to give your parents easy access to the important information they need all camp long. Learn more at www.campsourceapp.com

Camp can be intimidating for campers, especially those in younger age groups and first-timers. Icebreakers, teambuilding, and social emotional learning (SEL) activities are important to get campers acclimated. Working these activities into the beginning of the week, at the beginning of each day, will provide many benefits: 

1. Make it easier for campers to socialize and get to know each other.
2. Help campers work better together.
3. Reduce camper conflict and disciplinary issues.
4. Assist campers in learning others’ names.
5. Allow campers to work and play with kids they may not normally have an opportunity.
6. Help campers make friends more easily.
7. Assist in creating bonds and forming connections.
8. Help to develop important skills like problem-solving, listening, leading, and creative thinking.
9. Help campers listen, communicate, and show empathy.
10. Improve self-esteem.

Join The Summer Camp Source TODAY for more information on this topic and all things Camp Management!

The off-season is a critical time for camps to regroup, evaluate, and plan for the next year. While campers may not be on-site, camp directors and staff can use this downtime to tighten up operations, ensuring that everything runs smoothly when the next season rolls around. Focusing on operational improvements during the off-season can lead to cost savings, improved camper experiences, and a more organized staff. Here are five ways camps can maximize their off-season efforts to streamline operations.

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1. Review and Optimize Your Registration Process

The off-season is the perfect time to assess your registration system. If you’ve had issues with errors, delays, or complex sign-up processes, now is the time to fix them. By evaluating how the registration system performed in the last season, you can identify bottlenecks and inefficiencies.

Consider adopting a comprehensive registration platform that:

– Automates sign-ups, payment tracking, and communication with parents.

– Offers customizable forms that capture essential camper data.

– Provides real-time updates for both staff and parents.

An easy-to-use registration system not only helps parents but also saves staff time during the busy season.

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2. Analyze Data to Inform Future Programming

The off-season is ideal for diving into data and making data-driven decisions about the future. By analyzing trends from the past season, camps can adjust programming, staffing, and resources to meet evolving needs.

Key data points to review include:

– Enrollment numbers by session, age group, and activity.

– Feedback from camper and parent surveys.

– Popularity of specific programs or events.

Armed with this data, camps can make informed decisions about which programs to expand, which ones to cut, and how to optimize scheduling for next year.

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3. Fine-Tune Your Staff Management Process

Managing seasonal staff can be a logistical challenge, especially when you’re trying to get everyone trained and up to speed before campers arrive. During the off-season, take time to review your staff scheduling, onboarding, and management processes.

Streamlining staff operations includes:

– Creating a digital onboarding process to ensure all paperwork and training are completed before the season starts.

– Developing clear schedules and role assignments to avoid confusion during the camp season.

– Tracking staff certifications and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

By setting up a solid system for staff management in the off-season, camps can reduce the risk of last-minute chaos. A platform that integrates both camper and staff management—such as **Amilia**—can help camps stay organized and ensure that everything runs smoothly once the season begins.

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4. Maintain and Upgrade Your Technology

The off-season offers the perfect opportunity to assess and upgrade your camp’s technology. Whether it’s ensuring your registration software is updated, your payment systems are secure, or your Wi-Fi and network infrastructure is reliable, technology plays a crucial role in keeping camp operations tight.

Some tech upgrades to consider:

– Ensuring that all digital tools are mobile-friendly for parents and staff.

– Implementing secure payment gateways to protect against fraud.

– Upgrading communication systems to ensure parents and staff stay informed.

Modern camps rely heavily on technology to deliver seamless experiences, from registration to daily communication. The off-season is the ideal time to evaluate what needs upgrading, whether it’s software like Amilia for registrations or hardware upgrades for better on-site functionality.

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5. Plan Marketing and Outreach Campaigns

While the off-season may be a quiet time for camp operations, it’s an ideal period for marketing and outreach. Camps can use this time to plan and execute marketing strategies that build interest and early registrations for the upcoming season.

Marketing efforts during the off-season can include:

– Updating the camp’s website and social media profiles to reflect upcoming programs.

– Running early-bird promotions or discounts for families that register in advance.

– Engaging with past campers through email campaigns to keep them excited for the next season.

By having these marketing efforts in place before the season begins, camps can secure early registrations and have a better idea of how many campers to expect, which helps with staffing and resource planning.

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Conclusion

The off-season is more than just downtime—it’s a chance for camps to tighten up operations, streamline processes, and ensure everything is ready for a successful season. Whether it’s improving the registration experience, analyzing data for future programming,

or refining staff management, camps that invest time in these areas will be better prepared for the busy months ahead.

Here are a few kickball variations to spice things up out at the fields and keep your kids engaged with new and fun rules to a game we all know and love.

Backwards Kickball

This is a lot like normal kickball with a bunch of backwards twists. All the bases are backwards. Run to 3rd first, 2nd second, and 1st third. All players on a team get one time up and they get one pitch from their own pitcher. Endless # of outs, just keep going until all players have been up once. No foul balls, everything is fair. No limit to how many people on bases, no force outs. Get someone out by touching ANY base at any time. Any runners between any bases are out. If a ball is caught the runner is out. If a runner is tagged they are out.

Crazy Kickball

On a traditional kickball field, place a large container that can hold many balls at the pitcher’s mound, a hula hoop also works well. Mark the outfield with enough numbers for half the group. The numbers should designate outfield play positions. Positions can be marked with cones or chalk. Do not put positions farther into the outfield than you expect the students to kick. Divide the group into infield and outfield teams and give each child on each team a number. The numbers denote the kicking order and their positions in the outfield. Kickers come up one at a time. They kick the ball into the field and run around the bases continuously for a homerun. Emphasize to the runners that they need to touch each base with their foot. While one kicker runs, the next kicker comes up to home plate and kicks. There are many balls so there can be many runners going around the bases at a time. The fielders retrieve the kicked balls, pass them infield and put them into the container. The fielders are trying to quickly pass the balls infield to keep the container full. Tell the fielders to get the balls that come toward their position and throw them inward to the nearest player until the ball gets back into the container. Have students pass the ball to each other rather than running it all the way back. When the whole kicking team has kicked and run the bases one time, the teams switch.

Kindergarten Kickball

Divide players into 2 teams, kickers and outfielders and place cones all along the baselines in the infield. Coach is all-time pitcher. The outfielders should spread out; their goal is to get the kicked ball back to the pitcher as quickly as possible. There are no outs and no foul balls. The kickers line up and kick one at a time. The pitcher rolls the ball to the kicker and they kick it as hard as they can. Then the kicker runs along the baseline picking up as many cones as possible before the ball is returned to the pitcher. Once the pitcher has the ball, he or she yells “Stop!” to the kicker, and the kicker stops running and collecting cones and returns to home base. The cones collected are placed back at home base in a pile. Then the next kicker kicks and runs along the baseline collecting cones. Kickers can run either direction on the baselines, but cannot run across the pitcher’s mound. The inning is over once all kickers have kicked or if all cones have been collected.

Mountain Ball

This game can be played using home base and second base on a regular kickball field or by using 2 cones for bases in a large area. Demonstrate the two ways a player can get out. Remind players about playing their positions and calling a ball that is coming into their position zone. The object of the game is to kick the ball, run to the base and back home without getting “out.” Have your team score as many points as possible. There are NO foul balls. Players can kick the ball in any direction. One runner on a base at any time. A runner is out when: A fly ball is caught before it bounces, The runner is tagged with the ball, not on a throw. No pegging. On a fly ball base-runner must tag up before going home. Teams switch after one time through the kicking rotation or three outs.

Over-Under Kickball

Set up cones as bases on a traditional kickball field. This game can played with all four bases or two bases. When the ball is pitched, the first student kicks the ball and runs the bases. The runner goes continuously, trying to get around the bases as many times as possible. If you are using two bases the student runs back and forth as many times as possible. The fielders retrieve the ball. Once a fielder gains possession of the ball, his/her teammates run as quickly as possible to line up in single file behind her/him. The ball is then handed over the student’s head to the next person in line. The second person hands the ball through his/her legs (under) to the next person who then hands the ball over her/his head again. The students pass the ball over and under until the last person in line has possession of the ball and yells, “Stop!” At this point, the runner freezes where s/he is and announces how many time s/he made it around to home plate. One point is given for each base s/he has touched. Everyone on the first team gets a chance to kick and then the teams switch sides.

Ultimate Kickball

This game can be played on a regular kickball field or by using 4 cones for bases in a large area. Bases should be large enough to fit multiple players. The object of the game is to kick the ball, run the bases, and touch home without getting out and have your team score as many points as possible. Divide the group into 2 teams. There are no foul balls. Players can kick the ball backwards only if there is a backstop or wall behind home plate. There can be more than one runner on a base at any time. Runners may choose to stay on one base if it is unsafe to run. Runners can pass each other at any time. Runners must return to the previous base if the pitcher has the ball before they are half­way to the next base. Runners can get out when their fly ball is caught before it bounces or if they are tagged while not on a base. Teams switch after one time through the kicking rotation.

Note: This version of kickball works well because it allows the advanced players to run fast through the bases, and the beginning players to take their time and learn the game.

Need More Camp Games? See Our Downloadable Activity Guides!

Are you tired of the same old basketball games that you grew up with as a kid? Here is a fresh new look at basketball variations that will keep kids engaged and having fun learning the game of basketball. These games require minimal equipment and are suitable for elementary aged kids and above.

Beanbag Basketball

In this game you put a bucket on each side of the basketball court. In this game you will need two teams of at least 4-5 players. Choose one team to “throw off the beanbag”. They throw the beanbag to the other team to start the game. Once this is done the offensive team (with the beanbag) must make their way to the other side trying to get the beanbag into the bucket on the other end of the playing field. The other team can play defense but they cannot take the beanbag out of anyone’s hands or physically touch any other player. They basically can try to distract the other players and make it harder to make good passes. The only way to move the beanbag is to pass it. Nobody can run with the beanbag. It must be passed and caught. If the beanbag is passed and missed, the other team gets possession of the beanbag.

Chaos Basketball

Divide groups into as many hoops you have in the gym. Each team gets a ball to start, but balls can be picked up by anyone. Each team has to defend their hoop but also send teammates out to score on other hoops. When a player makes a basket they cannot get the same ball they made and must go out to find another one. Each team should assign a scorekeeper each round to count how many baskets go in their hoop. Basketball rules apply where players must dribble and pass to teammates as they go around the gym. There are no out of bounds. The team with the least amount of baskets that went in their hoop wins. Add more balls for more chaos!

Steal the Bacon – Basketball Style

Use a basketball court, or a large rectangular area. Divide the students into 2-4 groups; each team sits on a boundary line. Give each student a number. Each group should have a 1, a 2, etc. Assign each team one ball, which is placed in the center of the court. The leader calls out a number. All students with that number run to pick up their team’s ball. The students run back to the basketball hoop and attempt to make a shot. If a student makes the basket s/he earns a point for her/his team, then s/he returns the ball back to the designated area in the center of the court.

Medic Basketball

Set up two cones near each basketball hoop where you’d like the teams to shoot from. Divide students into two equal teams and have them line up behind the cones. Give each team a few minutes to select a medic. The first student in each line will have a chance to shoot the ball (have them play Ro-Sham-Bo to see who goes first). If the student makes a basket, s/he goes to the end of the line, earning a point for the team and remaining in the game. If the student misses, s/he will leave the line and stand off to the side. If the medic makes a basket, every student who previously missed can return to the line. Play continues until one line has lost all of their players or the teams have combined to equal a set number of baskets.

Sports Game Variation Activity Guide!

Transitions are going from one activity to the next with your group and are extremely important to ensure you are not wasting all your camp time in between activities. Here are some tips for successful transitions.

1) Always be thinking ahead. Once your activity begins, start to think about how you are going to wrap it up, clean up and get the group to the next one.

2) End the activity with enough time to clean up. Get the campers in the habit of cleaning up each space quickly after every activity.

3) Use tactics like whistles, chants, claps, and hand signals to make sure kids are attentive, listening and paying attention to avoid wasted time getting them organized.

4) Have your campers lined up and ready to move to the next space a minute or two before time is up.

5) When you get to the next activity do a quick overview of the activity and then start the activity as soon as possible to maximize your time.

Streamlining your transitions will result in less down time for your campers to get in trouble or be bored, will maximize the time you have available for each activity throughout your day, and create more fun for your campers.

Looking for Camp Activities? Check out our Printable Activity Guides

Transitions are going from one activity to the next with your group and are extremely important to ensure you are not wasting all your camp time in between activities. Here are some tips for successful transitions.

1) Always be thinking ahead. Once your activity begins, start to think about how you are going to wrap it up, clean up and get the group to the next one.

2) End the activity with enough time to clean up. Get the campers in the habit of cleaning up each space quickly after every activity.

3) Use tactics like whistles, chants, claps, and hand signals to make sure kids are attentive, listening and paying attention to avoid wasted time getting them organized.

4) Have your campers lined up and ready to move to the next space a minute or two before time is up.

5) When you get to the next activity do a quick overview of the activity and then start the activity as soon as possible to maximize your time.

Streamlining your transitions will result in less down time for your campers to get in trouble or be bored, will maximize the time you have available for each activity throughout your day, and create more fun for your campers.

Looking for new programming ideas? Here are some tried-and-true activities that are bound the get the adrenaline pumping and the giggles going for hours: https://www.prbplus.com/programming-ideas/

Whether you run camps all year round or just over the summer, there are always going to be peaks and valleys to your program schedule. When you are in one of those valleys or the off season, there are several things you can do to get caught up on things or get ahead for your next program.

1. Take time off. Getting away will allow you to rejuvenate and get refreshed. When you come back you will be more motivated to get back to work and continue to improve your programs.

2. Plan. Off-season time is also planning time and you should have a plan in place for everything. Finalize your next program dates, and review all aspects of your operation to ensure you are ready to go when the next program comes along.

3. Evaluate your program and processes for opportunities to improve. You should be putting together a post-program evaluation for every program, which includes staff and parent feedback. This is a great way to find out what you need to change or update to improve for your next camp.

4. Research new products and services that you can introduce to your program. Browse catalogs and buyers guides, attend expos, or reach out to others you know in the industry to always stay on top of the latest offerings and see if anything can improve your program.

5. Network with other professionals in the industry to get new ideas and stay on top of industry trends. Join an industry membership organization, online group, or reach out to others in your area. Having a great group of experienced like-minded professionals is not only beneficial to your program and organization but is also what helps advance the profession as a whole.

6. Spend the time, effort, and necessary funds in your facilities to take care of any deep cleaning and maintenance needs. This is one thing that gets overlooked frequently, especially during camp because it can be costly and time consuming. However, neglecting issues with your facility can snowball into much bigger issues or even a safety hazard quickly if the facility is not maintained properly. Get ahead of this by addressing any facility issues as soon as possible.

7. Market and promote your camp. You won’t think about this much during camp, but as soon as your current program is about to end, start to think about getting the dates to the next camp out to all current and past participants. From there, continue to market and promote as registration dates are coming up and you start your next program.

8. Put time aside for yourself and staff for training and education. You and your staff are your organization’s most valuable assets so it is important to continue to invest in resources that will make you and your staff better. There are always new things to learn or new ways of doing things so take the necessary time to make yourself and your staff the best they can be when the opportunity arises.

Most of the above is not possible during peak times as you are then focused on the successful operation of your program. When your program concludes, take the time and effort needed to take full advantage of your off season and it will pay dividends when your programs start up again.

Closest to the Pin: Lay the parachute flat and have each camper roll a ball to the center. Closest to the center wins.

Crazy Colors: You will need a lot of balls or objects that match the colors of the parachute. A large set of the small plastic balls you would find in a ball pit work perfect. Place the parachute flat on the ground and scatter the balls all over the room or gym. Assign each team a color and when you say go they have to collect all their color balls and place them on the same color of the parachute. You can also have each team take turns where they collect all the balls in a timed game to see who can sort them the fastest.

Parachute Tag: Lift the parachute high overhead. Call one child’s name and have him/her run to the other side before the parachute comes down and tags them. Variation: You can alter the game by having children skip, crawl or twirl to the other side.

Popcorn: Children circle around the parachute. Two teams are created on either side of the parachute. A number of balls are placed on the parachute. Teams try to shake the parachute to try and ripple the balls of the other players’ side. A point is awarded if a team successfully shakes the ball off the other team’s side.

Plug It: For this game, you need communication skills! The goal is to try and get a large beach ball to plug in the middle of the parachute. It may sound easy, but when you have a large group of students trying to move one parachute, it can be a challenge!

Parachute Game Activity Guide with over 40 games!

Red Light, Green Light Football

Use cones to set up two end-zones on opposing sides. Use cone(s) for student to form a line. First two students line up with jerseys as defensive players. Next two students line up in the opposing position as offensive players. On offense, one student is the hiker and hikes the football to the running back on command. The hiker then becomes a blocker. After receiving the ball, the running back attempts to run to the opposite end-zone without being tagged gently with two hands by the defense. IMPORTANT: Once the ball is hiked, an adult or Junior Coach can shout Red Light or Green Light to change the pace of the game. Red Light makes all players freeze, and green light makes all players resume play. The penalty for players who do not freeze on RED LIGHT is 5 steps backwards. Game is over when the offense makes it to the end-zone or if the running back is tagged.

Frisbee Football

Teams should be of equal number; each team has a goalie, as well as offensive and defensive players. Goal markers are set up at each end of the playing area. The object of the game is to pass the Frisbee past the goal line to another teammate. No player may hold his Frisbee for more than four seconds, without losing possession. Three steps may be taken before the Frisbee is passed. If offensive and defensive players catch a pass at the same time, defensive players take possession. Offensive players are allowed only 5 seconds at a time in the defensive red zone (15 yards from the red zone)

21 – Football

Designate a large play area with clear boundaries that has room for students to run. Split group into 2 teams.  The object of the game is for teams to score 21 points by completing passes in different areas of the field. One team begins on the line of scrimmage and attempts to complete a pass within a zone to score points. The teams switch from offense to defense after every 4 passes. All players must stay within the field. The defending team will cover the offensive team players to hold them to as few points as possible. The quarterback must stand behind the line of scrimmage. Points are scored for a catch at certain positions on the field and are determined by the zone in which the ball is caught, not where the player runs. If a defensive team intercepts (catches) the ball from the offensive team, the defensive team scores 3 points.

Flag Pull Game

Cone off an area and have all kids inside the cones with flag football flags on. The object of the game is to pull other’s flag while not getting yours pulled. No flag guarding. If you flag gets pulled you are out. As players get out you can make the cone boundaries smaller until there is only one person left with a flag.

Check out our Sports Variations Activity Guide for 100 Sports game variations!