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Choosing a Children's Camp Once you've made the decision to send your child to an Overnight Summer Camp, the next step is to find and choose the right program. With over 5,000 summer camps in the United States, this can be a daunting task. Ia a perfect world you would start searching for a camp a full year before you sign up. That way you can visit the camps while camp is in session. That way you can look over the camp facilities, the campers, while giving you a chance to get a feel for the program and its personality. You may even save a little cash from signing up early. Having said that, Few of us are that organized so, don't lose hope. And start by late Winter or early Spring. Some camps do fill up quickly and you may not be in luck with a late start. Even if you think that you have already decided, it is always a good choice to take a look at other programs before making a commitment, so that you can compare different programs. Some ways to find camps include: Word of Mouth, Churches or Synagogues, Library, Newspapers & Magazines, Local Camp Fairs and Private Camp Adviser's. However the most popular theses days is the internet. . By using google and typing the summer camp plus the state a huge array of camp listings will show up. Camp directories are another way to find a summer camp. These have many camps listed and a short overview of each camp. However, one of the best is American Camp Association or in the Midwest I'd look at CampsRUs.com It is important to have a goal in mind a check list of what your looking for in a summer camp experience. With that in hand start your search and use a check list to help narrow down your search. Once you have narrowed your search to four or five possibilities, call or e-mail the camp to ask for information. In addition to printed materials, most private camps also have a promotional video. Understand that these videos are promotional tools, but they will give you a visual image of the camp and the children. Try to make a journey to camp while they are in session.You will learn the most through talking and seeing what camp is really like. Call and ask the Camp Director for a toure and most will even invite you for lunch. If you can, review the camp's promotional materials beforehand so you have good questions and might even have specific areas you want to see. To learn more on finding the RIGHT Summer Camp visit this Free informational website. Swift Nature Camp is a , a non-competitive, traditional Coed Summer Camps for Boys and Girls (6-15 years). At this Science Summer Camp, Children enjoy animals and nature as well as traditional camping adventures. This Minnesota Summer Camp specializes in programs for the First Time Camper as well as Teen Campers.

Consider Sex When Picking A Summer Camp An Important decision in choosing a summer camp for your child is whether it will be a Coed Summer Camp or a single gender (all boys or all girls). There are virtues to both single-sex and coed camps. So read the below benefits of both and choose the one best for your family and child. "Our world has 2 genders...we are not alone," As Director of Swift Nature Camp, a coed camp summer camp in Wisconsin, I will tell you that coed camps prepare children for the real world. Our goal is to guide children with their interpersonal skills in healthy ways. We want our campers to be friends with the other sex and learn how to be a friend rather than always think from the gender-role stereotypes that are learned at school and from advertising. Boys have an opportunity to see girls as leaders and athletes; girls see boys in nurturing, expressive roles. It is important that coed camps set the boundaries for the children and stop any flirtation and flaunting while promoting opportunities for respectful relationships and true personal growth. We work hard with our staff to ensure that they are good role models nonromantic, polite, genuine male-female interactions we want campers to follow. A single gender camp provides children an experience that is different and uniquely supportive. At a single-sex camp, children see balanced role models and avoid romantic distractions. Girls interact with women who are both tenacious and tender, confident and caring. Boys interact with men who are both strong and compassionate, assertive and attentive. At a single-sex camp, Kids can be themselves, they don't have to worry about how the other gender sees them. During their time at camp they have had a chance to increase confidence and understanding and are reenergized to go back to the coed world. Single-sex camps tend to promote that which is stereotypically feminine and stereotypically masculine. It is important that these attributes are presented in a balanced way and that staff are trained to keep attitudes in check such as bravado and machismo at a boys' camp or gossip and diffidence at a girl camp. All in all its important that the atmosphere promotes an environment where boys and girls feel an enhanced sense of emotional safety. Their are many options to consider when choosing an overnight summer camp. Coed or single gender is only one of these. Regardless of your choice its most important thing is to select a quality camp that you feel comfortable it will provide a positive and safe experience for your child. Consider the needs of you child, look at how they socialize, where they will feel more comfortable and where the greatest growth will take place. this summer will Summer Camp be a toss back to earlier days and a chance to practice wholesome coed situations or a place to rediscover their own identity as a boy or girl and play with out be self conscious.? Summer Camp Advice a free website with information on Choosing A Summer Camp. Swift Nature Camp, Traditional, Non-competitive, Coed Overnight Summer Camp . Campers enjoy Adventure trips and in camp activities. We also get kids involved in protecting and preserving the environment at this Animal Summer Camp

Health Care At Camp Shortly, nearly 10 million children be going to Summer Camps. But before they go, health experts are issuing strong new advice to both parents and camp directors, and recommending new precautions to protect campers' health. The American Academy of Pediatrics along with the American Camp Association created an official policy statement about camper health and Summer Camp responsibilities. Edward Walton, M.D. is lead author of the paper. The new policy statement for the first time advises parents to thoroughly assess whether a camp is right for their child's mental, emotional and physical well-being, as well as their interests and skills. That means, Walton says, that camps should provide parents with a complete picture of what their programs involve, whether it's strenuous sports, rough wilderness camping, horseback riding -- or intense music or computer practice. If an activity raises risk for kids with certain medical conditions, for instance scuba diving and asthma, camps should tell parents about those risks ahead of time. Homesickness prevention, the authors write, should start weeks before a child goes off to camp, and can be led by parents with the help of the doctor or other health care provider who performs the child's pre-camp health assessment. Parents should also avoid making pre-arranged plans with their children about picking them up if they get homesick. This only gets kids thinking about the way out of camp. Only should parents discuss camp positively, avoid expressing doubts about a child's ability to avoid homesickness. With the new guideline, the AAP also recommends that its members -- the pediatricians who treat many of America's children -- get involved with camps in their local area to make sure that health policies and standing orders are up-to-date. They can also act as medical backups to the nurses and paramedic-trained camp health officers on site at camps -- instead of the local emergency room or urgent care center, which Walton's study found was the case 75 percent of the time. The guideline recommends that parents teach their children how to use rescue inhalers or EpiPens, before the kids go to camp. Parents need talk with camp directors about conditions that might require children to use their devices. Delay in not having these items handy can have real health consequences for the child. The new guideline do not give recommendations for summer camps that serve of children with special needs. However, it suggest that local pediatricians take part in such camps, and help establish programs specific to them. Finding the Right Summer Camp for your you is no easy task, Si, visit a FREE resource Summer Camp Advice at Summer Camp Swift Nature Camp is a <a href='http://www.swiftnaturecamp.com/minnesota.htm'>Minnesota Summer Camp</a> for boys and girls ages 6-15. Our focus is to blend traditional outdoors summer camp activities with that of a Science Summer Camp that promotes an appreciation for nature.

Summer Camp Instills Responsibility As parents we love our children and we want the best for them. Yet, what is our goal? As much as we love them its to get our kids out of the house. Yes, we need to launch them into the real world. In order to make this happen successfully we need to raise independent, self-sufficient human beings. Accomplishing this goal requires prent to always be thinking. What is the best route to take between helpless infancy and independent adulthood? Independence is best built gradually. We want to build such skills as making sound decisions, caring for one's own needs, taking action to meet goals, being responsible for one's own actions, and seeking out the information we need to guide choices. None of these things will develop magically or over night, however. Kids need a range of experiences, from simple to complex, in order to learn these skills. Let's take a quick look at each of these areas. Wise decisions begin with baby steps. We wouldn't dream of turning our young adults loose in a car with out training and supervised practice. So why would we not do the same in decision making. Small children need to be allowed to make decisions as soon as they are capable of choosing between two things. This can with guided choices "Do you want your striped pants or your green pants today?" or "It's your turn to choose what veggies do you want for supper." Now here is the important part. What do you say after the decision? Do you process the results from their decisions? Point out the advantages and disadvantages of each choice, and then allow your child to choose. Be sure you are intentional and only suggest acceptable choices sot here is no chance of making a wrong choice. As kids grow open the door to making choices. Children need practice and experience to make good decisions. After all, humans tend to learn more when things don't go the way we expected. A common error for parents is not to give children practice in making mistakes. Often because it is quicker or easier. Yet, we need to give our children responsibilities. Spent time to teach your children how to do personal and household tasks. Kids will try very hard to learn these skills. Plus, when the child does finally become proficient, you will have eased your own burden in many ways and they feel satisfied in their accomplishments. Children's Summer Camp is a wonderful place that challenges your child to become responsible for their stuff and actions. At camp children are supervised but not coddled so clothes left on the floor need to be picked up, their is no maid service. Parents often tell us that the true benefit of summer camp is the increased self confidence and initiative to get chores done around the house. Findi a<a href='http://www.summercampadvice.com'>Summer Camp</a> at SummerCampAdvice.com Swift Nature Camp is a Overnight Summer Camp for boys and girls ages 6-15. We blend Traditional camp activities with that of a <a href='http://www.swiftnaturecamp.com/science-atcamp.htm'>Science Camp</a>.

Home Schooled Kids Need Summer Camp Children that are Home Schooled can benefit greatly from the summer camping experience. Despite, age, gender,grade level or religious background. Home School Summer Camps provide a special area where children can be independent, and that's a key part of growing up. Camp counselors model perseverance, listening, teamwork and appreciation of differences. Helping children see successful behavior and away from the family. This in turn brings new found independence in line with your at-home teachings. After all as parents we understand somethings just can't be taught by us. How do you know you are picking the right camp for your homeschooler? I suggest you first look for a small camp, that can give your child individual attention. Often Home Schooled children get lost in the crowd. When picking a camp do your work in advance this will help ensure that your child has an enjoyable summer. Summer Camp Benefits For Children Residential (overnight) camp offers home schooled children a wonderful opportunity to socialize with other children in a new and exciting environment. Often long-lasting friendships are forged at summer camps each year. Campers often return year after year making camp their summer home. Some continue on till they are past camper age and participate in a Counselor in Training program for teens or even become counselors passing on the traditions of summer camp. Jeff Lorenz Director of Swift Nature Camp a Children's Summer Camp in Wisconsin says "Summer Camp provides children the chance to be independent and assume leadership roles. Without parents or siblings around campers often show their responsibility thus improving self-confidence when they return back home". The many activities available at summer camp gives children the opportunities to try new things and discover new skills. From canoeing and Arts & Crafts to Swimming, Hiking and Horseback riding the list of activities available at different camps are of the utmost benefit to the children who attend. When choosing the right summer camp Look for a program that fits your child's comfort level. If the child has never been away from home and is seven and under a day camp program may be more suitable. If your child is used to overnight sa sleepaway camp may be a better fit. Usually overnight camps start at around age 8. But do not be afraid to challenge your child by giving him or her new opportunities. As parents of a homeschooler we know our kids are a bit more attached to us than other kids. Yet we know sour goal is to get them ready to head out on their own. Summer camp is a great place to practice. There is comfort in the familiar so pick a camp that has some activities your child feels comfortable with. Maybe a Non competitive camp would be best for your child? Traditional summer camps provides opportunities in many areas giving a child comfort in some things a child has tried before as well as activities that ask him to leave their comfort zone. If possible take your child to an open house. This allows parents and children to come and visit for a day and tour the grounds. For other camps this is not so easy, yet they might offer a local open house to meet staff and other campers. Work weekends at camp are a great way to get to know the staff and the grounds. This is a perfect venue to put a child's fears at ease and make sure a camp is the right one. Don't pick a camp just because all your child's friends are attending. Camp is about making new friends in a new place. Testimonials from old campers and or youth counselors are also vital tools in deciding if a camp is a good fit. Don't be afraid to ask them about their feelings and experiences. Older campers are usually happy, if not eager, to share about the role summer camp has played in their lives. Camp accreditation is a vital step in choosing a camp. Most States have a camping regulations, which hold camps accountable. But the American Camp Association is the best source to ensure camp quality. So be sure the camps you are looking at are (ACA) approved. Probably the most important part in selecting a summer camp is to chat with the Camp Directors. Discuss your concerns and your feelings with the camp owners. They should be able to help you feel comfortable in your decisions, if not , it's the wrong camp for YOU and your child! For more information on <a href=How to Pick a Summer Camp A free website giving parents information on finding that perfect summer camp for their child. Swift Nature Camp is a Overnight Summer Camp for boys and girls ages 6-15. The focus is to blend traditional summer camp activities with that of a Science Summer Camp. A first time camper program is available as well.

Not All Camps Are the Same Clearly, none of the SUMMER CAMPS meets the needs of every children. Therefore you must do some research to find the right summer camp for your child. Much of this research can be done right from your computer. Here is a list that will assist you to find the best summer camp.   Camp Size The level of program organization will determine the extent that the size of a camp matters. While you don't want a camp that is so small that your child is limited in activities or friends, you also don't want a program where your child is lost in the shuffle. The issue is not only numbers, but more importantly, how the camp breaks down the campers into manageable groups. Too small a camp can mean cliques can form, leaving children out, while a large camp may be intimidating to a first time camper. When a program is too large, it becomes harder for the camp to offer all-inclusive activities, like campfires and cookouts. These circumstances make it difficult to build a sense of camp unity and spirit. Also, in a smaller camp you tend to know the Director more closely and feel comfortable asking question or just calling to see how your camper is doing.   Advantages of a coed camp: If you have children of the opposite sex, it can be easier if you can find one camp that suits them both. The mechanics of getting children off to different programs may be too complicated. Coed camps can be less competitive than single sex camps. Because there is a more social atmosphere in camp the intensity of play is reduced. A good coed camp will focus not on coed relationships but on coed friendships. This can be an important part of becoming a mature adult.   What About Friends? Should at-home friends go to the same camp? Going to camp with a close friend can lessen pre-camp jitters and to some extent, lessen homesickness, but when best friends are bunkmates, it can complicate adjustment to camp. Some things to consider are: * Friendships may not be able to survive the effects of living together 24 hours a day. * An old friendship can limit the development of new relationships.* If one child is having more trouble adjusting, the other may feel responsible for 'taking care' of her friend and ensuring her happiness.* Jealousy can develop if one camper begins to bond with others, leaving her friend out.* It's important to ask the camp what they do to help new campers feel comfortable.   Find the Right Summer Camp at a FREE service filled with information.   Lonnie Lorenz is the director of Swift Nature Camp, a non-competitive, traditional coed overnight Summer Camp. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15 enjoy nature, animals & science along with traditional camping activities. Swift specializes in programs for the First Time Camper as well as Teen Summer Adventure Camp.

Top Reasons for Camp He was 10 and I knew he was looking for more than a summer of day care and TV shows. So i wondered if SUMMER CAMP was the right place for my son. My son, currently 15, has attended Swift Nature Camp for four years and we are going to send him back for as long as we can. He loves it. He has ADHD and is very smart, but has trouble at school with attention-seeking ploys. The counselors and directors at SNC have a great, hands-on approach to leadership, social skills development and confidence-building. Jeff and Lonnie, along with enthusiastic counselors, provide an excellent atmosphere that encourages positive traits to rise to the surface. My son has developed greater peer understanding and empathy, greater self-confidence and trust, better leadership skills, an understanding of group dynamics and fair process and many other valuable lifelong skills. At first I felt nervous sending him to a place I had never seen, but it was really worth it! I talked to Jeff and Lonnie over the phone before I signed him up for the Discovery Camp . A special program for the First time at Camp Their willingness to discuss any question I had and their understanding of my fears made the decision easy. My son took the bus there, but I picked him up at the end, so I got to see first-hand all of the wonderful places he got to explore. He was so excited about camp that I'm not sure he drew breath on the 8-hour journey home! The SNC website tells you everything you need to know and I love how the camp is set up. The cabins are by gender and age and do activities together, including laundry (!) In the afternoons the campers can pick from a variety of typical camp activities (arts & crafts, archery, swimming, etc.). n top of this, the camp is dedicated to environmental awareness and nature preservation. They have a nature center with microscopes and frogs and tadpoles and lots of hands on activities. There is also a small petting zoo of well-adored animals. Of course there is plenty of laughter, games, campfires, food, sports, fun, drama, singing, etc. that makes overnight (residential) camp an experience one remembers for their entire life. As a parent, I appreciate that this isn't a "sports camp" or "math camp" or something ultra specific. Kids at SNC get to be kids and by experiencing all sorts of different activities and a diverse set of campers and counselors, learn more about themselves than at a specialized camp. My son has learned so much from this camp in the four years he has been attending. We have noticed a HUGE difference in his attitude, manners and abilities. He is more mature, pleasant and competent. We would pay any price for the experiences and social education he has gained from SNC. We used to joke that you can find math, reading, or science tutors but no tutors in social skills. Well we were wrong! This is exactly what my son needed at exactly the right time in his life. If you are thinking about away-camp for your child, please consider SNC. Primarily I think of it as a non-competitive, confidence-building camp where kids get to be kids. I know it is the best thing we ever did for our son. Thanks Jeff, Lonnie and all the fabulous counselors, cooks, nurses, etc. We hope our son will join your camp as a counselor when he is older (it is a new goal of his)! You can also find more information on how to pick a summer camp at this website FINDING a CAMP

THE RIGHT CAMP MAKES A DIFFERENCE It is being lost! Today less and less children are getting to go to summer camp. The wonderful experience of summer camp has been a way of life for generations of American children. Sleeping away from home and making new friends is a time of increased independence and maturity.For others who did not get the opportunity to go to Outdoor Camp they just don't understand the importance.   In many books and movies summer camp has been the scene. To name a few, "The Parent Trap" and "Indian Summer". Yet, the majority of these movies and books are not realistic. Either they sugar coat the camp experience or they make it just horrible. Summercamp! , the documentary is one of the most realistic true stories about kids at summer camp. Filmed at Swift Nature Camp in Wisconsin, it truely shows how the kids interact and what makes camp so special. During the filming over 300 hours of film was shot to make this charming 90 minute feature. This documentry shows camp like it really is, this is no glossy brochure or promotional DVD, it just shows kids living life with new friends and in new siuations.   These days parents heavily schedule their children making it more difficult to plan for summer camp. In addition, we parents, have given much more importance to technology than nature. After all the boogie man outside rarely comes in to harm your child. Thus making the world of mature unsafe. It is estimated that most children spend nearly 6 hours a day in front of some sort of screen.   Famed author>Richard Louv, of Last Child in the Woods: is alarmed by this untouching of nature. He calls it Nature-deficit disorder and sad situation in child development. He feels there is a link between lack of outdoor play and and increase in obesity, attention disorders, and depression.   Summer Camp is just one place that can help children learn to appreciate nature as well as teach children independence and friendship. Connection with nature and other children are important in raising a generation that sees the importance in protecting this planet. Most camps today are specialized in sports, acting or math. So, how do we find a traditional camp that encourages good values and a focus for nature?   Ask yourself these questions before selecting your child's summer Camp: • What about technology? All electronics can take away from the true camp experience. Ipods and cell phones allow children to hide in their electronics rather than participate with the cabin. Louv says that tent mates with video games or text messaging can easily distract your child. At first most campers are not so keen on this idea but after a few days at camp they see a reson to take a break.   • Does the camp have an Outdoor Focus? Louv suggests some camps are trying to be all things to all people. No longer are camps seen as a traditional time in the woods. Historically, summer camps used their natural settings, and encouraged chidren to to play in a outdoor environment. Today this is no longer true, many camps take place on college campuses.   • Can children play without direction in Nature? Nature-deficit disorder is nearly always due to parents overscheduling kids. Louv suggests this gives kids less time and energy to explore their natural world on their own. Summer camps have figured this out and design structured and nonstructured play. When children play on their own, they have to figure it out and work together, what a wonderful learning experience.   • Is there Environmental Education? Does camp schedule time where nature can be explored and discovered? These times should be hands on and not like school. Does a theme of the outdoors run within all activities? Are "WOW" moments created that hightlight the wonders of nature? Does the summer camp try to reduce its environmental footprint? Does it compost and recycle?   • Kids eat 3 times a day. So the food has got to be good. For years children's summer camps have had a poor reputation for their meals. This has changed at many camps. More vegetarians have caused this change. Ask about fried foods? Is there a salad bar with fruits and yogurt? Can the camp cope with your child's food allergy? Still meals must taste good and be kid friendly.     If any of this sounds like something of interest to your child, try looking at Swift Nature Camp. This is a small coed camp for children 6-15. It has a very strong emphasis not only on developing a desire to learn more about nature but also undrestanding why we need to respect it. This Outdoors Camp engage kids in hands on, fun-filled learning. A child's natural curiosity and self-discovery make this program work... This <a href="http://www.swiftnaturecamp.com>Environmental Camp</a> is NOT School.   Campers can bring their own small critters from home and let them live in the Nature Center for all to see and learn about. Combined this learning with the beautiful natural surrounding and canoe and backpack trips, children cannot help but form an appreciation for the nature.   Each summer, a wonderful community developes as children from around the world come together to learn more and appreciate the natural environment of Swift Nature Camp. A community such as camp provides support and encouragement that helps a child to mature and grow. Self-reliance is promoted along with being undrestanding to others. Children result in being more sensitive and understanding. The world needs to be a little more like camp with more understanding of others while needing to respect nature. If you feel your child might benefit from just such a place Swift Nature Camp might be the place for your child this summer.   If you are just starting to look at summer camps and would like more information, please see Summer Camp Advice Camp Guide

Teens at Summer Camp Summer camp isn't just for young children. Children Summer Camps such as, Swift Nature Camp offers a coed teen summer camp program that is just for teenaged campers up to 15 years of age, and a Counselor in Training Program for ages 16 and 17. Like its summer camp programs for pre-teens, Swift Nature Camp offers an amazing range of camp activities. Hiking, climbing, ceramics, horseback riding, tennis, kayaking, and whitewater rafting are among the most popular programs among teen campers.   Teen Camps provides teens a special opportunity to make friends in a relaxed and fun-filled environment, build self-esteem and independence, and meet the challenge of new physical and creative activities. Most teens want to do things for themselves and are bored by even the thought of a "normal" camp. Swift Nature Camp has created the Adventure Camp program, loaded with opportunities for cabin mates to leave camp and go out into the big open wild. There are opportunities to take trips to the Apostle Islands, go to the International Wolf Center, or find the way to the Mississippi River.   Swift Nature Camp offers a small, intimate, friendly and non-competetive environment for all of its teen summer camp programs out of the belief that all children, expecially those in their teenage years, enjoy this break from the competition of the "real world". A positive, encouraging environment that fosters acceptance brings a welcome balance to young lives. First time campers quickly and smoothly fit in and feel at home in such an atmosphere.   Today's teens grow up too fast and need time to play. An Adventure Summer Camp should challenge your teen to try new things, but not in a stressful way. Camp is not school! Interaction with animals can be a perfect way for a child to learn by the natural discovery of play. Besides all the fun and excitement of a traditional camp, the kids have the joy of discovering Nature and the world we live in.   After living life in a beautiful natural setting among caring staff and instructors, teens come to love summer camp. Many teen campers return summer after summer, returning to see friends and enjoy the excitement, self-direction, and goofy fun characteristic of camp life. Summer camp is a great place to be oneself and a perfect place to make lifelong friends. Away from the pressures of home, school and competitive sports, teenagers discover themselves and thrive.   You can learn more about selecting a wonderful Teen Summer Camp by visiting Summer Camp Advice

Why Camps in the USA? Summer camps are an American institution. Since the early 1900's youngsters have been leaving the city and enjoying the fresh air of the country while learning camping skills. No longer is summer camp only about campfires. Now computer screens and Surfing camps have passed by the nature trails to. Many of today's camps are not in the country but take place in the city.   One Befit of Summer Camp is kids are given the choice to try new things and take safe risks. This voluntary nature makes children more open to new experiences, with personal satisfaction as their motivation. Not only are there opportunities to try new things, but camp offers many areas for children to excel in. At a good general interest camp, the non-athlete can shine at arts and crafts, woodworking, or dramatic programs, while the athlete can also find many outlets for their skills. Perhaps most importantly, the two campers learn to live together and become friends despite their varied interests. Learn about a great general interest summer camp. Animal Camp   Summer camp offers children many opportunities to become competent at both new and old skills,. it makes sense that there will be improvement. Novices have chances to learn, while those who are more experienced can improve. Building self-esteem is a goal at camp, through Learning new skills and improving on old ones. Children become more independent and self-reliant at camp with their new found skills.   Many years from now campers may not remember capture the flag games or the words to a camp song, Yet, the life lessons learned at camp will remain. Campers learn how to take responsibility. The child who has never before made a bed, will learn how to smooth out sheets and blankets and tidy up a locker. Counselors are always on hand to encourage campers to take responsibility for themselves along minor health issues, a camper learns to articulate what hurts and how to get help. All of this personal responsibility further fosters a sense of independence and self-esteem. Social skills also increase by making new friends and learning how to reach out to strangers. At camp, children learn to get along with others, all while living together 24 hours a day, learning about courtesy, compromise, teamwork, and respect is no small task.   For campers from a foreign country Camps in USA provide a unque opportunity for children to learn about America from local kids. All in a fun and encouraging environment. Not to mention daily using the English language.   Learn more more about American Summer Camps visit Summer Camp Advice. Camp Information

Picking a Teen Summer Camp While choosing the right Teen Summer Camp may be more complicated than selecting a general interest camp for a younger child, the rewards can be even richer. A teenager is in the midst of an incredible growth spurt. There is a literal physical change that you may see when your teen arrives home, but equally important are the emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and social changes that a challenging summer program can produce in a child in this age group.   Although finding the right summer program for teens is different than finding a program for a nine year old, some of the basics are the same: you still want a safe, secure, and appropriate environment. However, teenagers need and are ready for new challenges and greater independence. As your child matures, you may find that you need to reexamine your choice each year as his interests expand.   It is important to keep in mind when choosing a program for teens that the needs, interests, and abilities of a 13 year-old are quite different from that of a 17 year-old. When considering programs, you should also keep in mind your child's maturity as well. Parents often express concern about the level of supervision in many of the programs designed for teens. One great resource is Summer Camp Advice Summer Camp Information   If you're living with a teenager, you're living with part kid and part adult. Planning a summer program in November may be more difficult for an adolescent than a younger child, because your teenager's interests and emotions are going through such enormous changes. However, because many good programs fill up fast, you will want to try to focus early so that you and your child have the widest range of choices.   The best way to start your search for a summer program is to sit down and talk with your child. Searching for a good summer program is a way to strengthen your relationship with your teen. This is an opportunity to discuss with your child his interests, concerns, and values. You need to talk with your teen about what each of you want the summer to be. But be ready to Listen...even if they "don't want to do anything."   Their are many teen programs available and its important to try to find the right one. As a parent do not give up right away. Sometimes you have to really look hard to find the right answer. The internet is a very useful tool for this. But it is helpful to know if your thinking serving, traveling, adventure or a little of all.   One of the best ways to reconcile your goals with your child's is to piece together the summer with activities from both of your lists. Although it is more difficult and figuring things out may be more time consuming, your teen will get a broader experience for your work.   If you decide that your teen will choose a local program, it is important to establish summer rules, expectation, chores, and schedules. This will be especially important if this will be the first summer in years that your youngster is spending at home.   A suggestion is to look at Swift Nature Camp for your Teen next summer. Swift Nature Camp is unique among teen summer camps in that we provide teens a special opportunity to make friends in a relaxed and fun-filled environment, to build self-esteem and independence, and to challenge themselves with new physical and creative activities. We realize teenagers want to do things for themselves and are bored by a "normal" camp. So we provide an Adventure Camp program with loads of opportunities cabins often leave camp and go out into the big open wild and see the Apostle Islands, go to the International Wolf Center or find themselves canoeing down the Mississippi River. Camp for Teens   Last and most importantly remember youth is limited and no adult ever looked back and recalls the good old days of just watching TV all summer!

Save Money at Summer Camp Camp can be just as educational as school, with the added dimension of children learning through experience. Through activities and play, children learn a wide range of skills and develop physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually. At camp, children learn by doing, living, and experiencing things for themselves. It's one thing to watch a nature program on television, but quite another to experience nature in real life.   Residential camps can be downright expensive, even if the experiences are worth every penny. If you're trying to figure out how you can afford to send your child to summer camp, consider the following cost saving ideas.Cheap Camp   Families that in the past have sent their children to private upper end overnight camps, especially on the east coast, are now looking at alternatives that might be far less expensive. One suggestion is to look in the midwest for a camp that might offer very similar activity programs at a cost 25-30% less than the equivalent east coast camp.   For other families who still want to send their children to private camps, one way to save on summer camp is to look for alternative programs that might be similar to what you have done in the past yet less expensive. This is just a matter of shopping on the internet for price.Adventure Camp   For other children the answer may be to leave the private summer camp programs altogether and choose a less expensive overnight camp program, such as a YMCA or a even a church program. These summer camps can save nearly 30% or more compared to the private camps.   In most local areas park districts offer some form of day summer camp. These are usually the most cost effective, however, day camps generally do not offer the same array of activities and benefits that an overnight summer camp provides.   Summer camps do have discounts and campership programs, but seldom are these programs FREE. Each summer camp decides how to run their own discount program, so it is important to ask the camp director how to become a part of their particular program and see if it will help make camp affordable for you.   If these areas still leave summer camp out of the question the ACA (American Camp Association) recommends: * Parents should inquire into whether the camp participates in income-eligible subsidy programs, for instance through Title XX. * A Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account allows parents to be reimbursed on a pre-tax basis for child care or adult dependent care expenses for qualified dependents that are necessary to allow parents to work, look for work, or to attend school full time. Visit the FSA Feds Web site for more information. * In certain circumstances, day care expenses, including transportation by a care provider, may be considered dependent care services and paid with pre-tax dollars. Visit the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for more information. * Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: The IRS allows an income tax credit of up to $6,000 of dependent care expenses if you have two or more dependents (up to $3,000 for one dependent). The amount of the credit is based on your adjusted gross income and applies only to your federal taxes. This applies to qualifying day camp expenses as well. Visit the FSA Feds Web site for more information.   Remember, all camps are not created equal and cost is often reflected in quality of programs. It is imperative that you do your homework to ensure a quality experience for your child. One areas where camps cut costs is staffing. Some camps use volunteers while others have paid staff. Look at counselor-to-camper ratios to determine how many campers are sleeping in each cabin with how many children. What age are the counselors? If they are not over 18, parents should be wary.   Be sure to ask the director about the actual, true total cost of the camp. This should include not only tuition, but transportation, canteen and spending money, laundry, off-site trips, and uniforms (if required). Ask the director about how much of a deposit is required and if it is refundable. When must the camp fees be paid in full? Ask about what the policy is if the family's plans change and they withdraw the child from the program before the start of camp. What if problems arise during camp and the child must come home?   Safety is the most important area of any Summer Camp. Regardless of cost, you want to ensure that your child will be safe and will return home at the end of the program. One way to make sure your selected camp is safe is to verify that the camp is an accredited member of the American Camp Association. The ACA ensures that over 300 standards are met in their accreditation process.   Lastly, It is important to try to remember the experience of being a kid. Summers are long, and the experiences at camp create a lifetime of memories. For many adults, these recollections are some of their fondest. Do what you need to to suit your needs, but don't let this summer pass your child by without a summer camp experience Summer Camps Minnesota So you are thinking about a Minnesota Summer Camp for your child. GREAT! Here are the top 10 questions to ask a summer camp director. This list was compiled by the American Camp Association. What's the camp's philosophy? Is it one you're comfortable with? Is it a good match for your child? Is competition or cooperation emphasized? If it's a camp run by a religious organization, what religious observances or practices are part of the program? If you're looking at a sports camp that touts an affiliation with a celebrity athlete, how much time--if any--will the sports star actually spend there? How does the camp recruit, screen and train its staff? Do counselors have criminal background checks? First aid training? Drug Testing? What about return rates? How many counselors are returning this year? The ACA says at most camps, 50 percent of the staff returns. If the number you're given is lower, ask why. How many campers return? Fifty percent is good, and more is better. Still looking for that perfect camp Check out this Summer Camps in Minnesota What's the ratio of counselors to campers? ACA guidelines for overnight camps call for a 1:6 ratio for ages 7 and 8, 1:8 for ages 9-14; and 1:10 for ages 15-18. Day camp guidelines call for 1:8 for children ages 6-8; 1:10 for children ages 9-14; and 1:12 for ages 15-18. How old are the counselors? The ACA recommends that 80 percent of the staff be 18 or older and that all staffers be at least 16 and a minimum of two years older than the campers they supervise. What medical staff work at the camp and what backup facilities are nearby? The ACA recommends that an overnight camp have a licensed physician or registered nurse on the site every day, and that day camps should have direct phone access. If your child takes medication, has food allergies or a chronic medical condition, be sure you are comfortable that the camp will be able to handle your child's needs. How does the camp handle conflicts and Discipline? Find out what the camp's rules are and what breaches would result in a camper being sent home. You should be comfortable that the camp's practices are in line with your parenting practices. What does a typical daily schedule look like? This will help you decide if your child will be happy with the level of physical activity or the amount of time devoted to arts and crafts. Ask how much freedom a child has to choose activities. Will the camp be transporting the children? What vehicles are used and how often are they inspected? Who drives them and what training do drivers have? Ask for references. Finally and most important, get the names of parents with children the same age who have attended the camp. Still looking for that perfect camp Check out this Summer Camps Minnesota Blogs for Summer Camps When you are trying to get a good feel for what a summer camp is like it is a good idea to check out the Summer Camp Blog. Here are just a few things you might find at Swift Nature Camp's Blog.   Expect to capsize and swim occasionally when paddling a canoe, kayak or raft - it's part of the sport! But when you hit the water unexpectedly, even strong swimmers need a lifejacket, also known as a personal flotation device (PFD). It allows you to concentrate on doing what's needed to execute a self rescue and will allow you to assist others. Nearly 70% of all drownings involving canoes, kayaks or rafts might have been avoided if the victim had been wearing a lifejacket!   We at Swift Nature Camp believe that your child's safety is the most important part of camp. That is why we have a strict Lifejacket rule. Everyone must wear a PDF when in a boat. No exceptions, staff and campers alike. THis is true if on a river canoe trip or on on our own camp lake. Water is so much fun and kids love it but it is dangerous and we must be prepared. We even have a special "titanic test" to ensure that our lifejacket fits nice and snug in case of an emergency. Campers learn this the first day of camp.   It seems as if we are learning more that Summer Camp helps children grow into mature adults. A new British study finds that most modern parents overprotect their kids. Half of all kids have stopped climbing trees, and 17 percent have been told that they can't play tag or chase. Even hide-and-seek has been deemed dangerous. And that dreaded stick..."will put out someone's eye". It is easy to blame technology for the decline in outdoor play, but it may well be mom and dad. Adrian Voce of Play England says 'Children are not being allowed many of the freedoms that were taken for granted when we were children,' 'They are not enjoying the opportunities to play outside that most people would have thought of as normal when they were growing up.' According to the Guardian, "Voce argued that it was becoming a 'social norm' for younger children to be allowed out only when accompanied by an adult. 'Logistically that is very difficult for parents to manage because of the time pressures on normal family life,' he said. 'If you don't want your children to play out alone and you have not got the time to take them out then they will spend more time on the computer.' The Play England study quotes a number of play providers who highlight the benefits to children of taking risks. 'Risk-taking increases the resilience of children,' said one. 'It helps them make judgments,' said another. We as parents want to play it safe and we need to rethink safety vs adventure. The research also lists examples of risky play that should be encouraged including fire-building, den-making, watersports, paintballing, boxing and climbing trees. Summer camp provides an excellent opportunity for children to get outside take risks and play, all while still while being supervised by concerned young adults...we call counselors. See how Swift Nature Camp can put Adventure back into your childs life.   The Russell W. Hogrefe Fresh Start Fund was established by Russell W. Hogrefe during his tenure as Executive Director of the American Camp Association, Illinois Section. He served in that position from 1979 until his retirement in 1996. Russ spent his entire professional career providing children's summer camp and other services to families with very low income. Teachers, social workers, counselors or other professionals refer campers. ACA Illinois Section staff and the person making the referral select an appropriate day or resident camp program. Camps must be accredited by the American Camp Association. The camper's family is encouraged to pay whatever they can afford for the camping experience. The camp provides a partial campership and the Fund pays the balance. If you would like to donate fund to help an underprivileged child attend summer camp in 2009 please send a check or make an online donation. Summer camp is an experience that enriches lives and all children should have the opportunity to attend kids summer camp. To learn how Swift Nature Camp can help your child attend camp visit our website.   Over the past few years I have been happy to act as the Vice President of the Midwest Association of Independent Camps (M.A.I.C.). We represent the very best independently owned and operated summer camps in the Midwest. MAIC includes kids' summer camps in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan and Indiana. Our organization educates and inspires camping professionals to be their very best. MAIC is a group of camp professionals who are dedicated to promoting high quality standards in organized camping, while offering children and their parents the best possible summer camp experience. Members of MAIC have been meeting together and sharing ideas, methods and practices since 1960. To parents looking for a top quality resident camp or day camp in the Midwest: we are a great place to start your camp search. CampsRus.com is a camp directory that represents over 45 of the very best summer camps in the midwest. If you are looking for an amazing summer camp job working with children, be sure to choose an MAIC camp and start your search here! Remember MAIC camps are family run camps that are concerned for each child?s safety and emotional development. Above all else M.A.I.C. camps = fun, fun, fun, fun!   Jeff & Lonnie Lorenz, are Directors of Swift Nature Camp a Non-competitive, Traditional coed overnight summer camp in Wisconsin. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15. enjoy Nature, Animals & Science along with Adventure camping. Homesickness at Summer Camp   Thinking of sending your child to summer camp? But what about Homesickness? You don't have to be a camper suffer from homesickness. A strange, new place can trigger separation anxiety. It is a normal part of childhood for many kids. It is evidence of the loving, trusting relationship you have built with your child and therefor, separation for the first time often is scary.   A overnight Kids Summer Camp often is difficult for a child, even if they know the seperation is followed by a family reunion. Children can easily get overwhelmed when adjusting to living with new people in a different place, . Even for children who enjoy new adventures a short bout of homesickness is a common reaction for kids new to summer camp.   Regardless of outcome, don't measure success as a parent by your child's adjustment to camp. Should your child do well and not feel homesick does not mean that they do not love you and need you. Also, if your child does poorly adjusting to camp, it does not mean that you have failed to create an independent child. For some campers , it feels as if they may never see you again . Be sure to put your child's reaction into context, often all they need is comfort and reassurance that all is ok.   Homesickness is not about your child loving or trusting you enough, or about her independence or willingness to take risks. Homesickness is a temporary feeling that can be beaten with the support of camp staff. Beating homesickness it is a huge boost to to a childs self-confidence and self esteem. Helping kids get over home sickness is what camps do well. Be Sure to talk to the director if you feel this may be an issue for your child   There are times that with a great deal of thought and awareness a choise is made to bring your child home. Failure is a feeling that often is associated with an early leaving of camp. Sometimes a child is just not ready for camp or the camp is just not a good fit. If, after a real trial (7-10 days), and your child is not getting better, it's time to make that trip to camp.   ITalk to the camp director about your decision to to bring your child home. Support your child fully through what they feel is a failure. Reevaluation is best saved for many days after the return. You need to figgure it out with them. Help your child to understand that even though it did not work, he is not a failure. Suggest another sleepaway camp program at another time because you have confidence in him.   Should you feel overnight camp maybe difficult for your child find a program that has a special "first time camper program." Swift Nature Camp offers a unique SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS that is designed only for first time camper. This program works because it is long enough for campers to not get stuck at a place of homesickness, but rather helps them to get through those feelings. With a limited amount of campers and only first timers it sets a level playing feel for all campers.   Find out how to pick a summer camp at Summer Camp Advice. Camp information Summer Camp Questions   Here are some things to consider when visiting a camp, watching a video or flipping through the brochure. iPlease note many of these areas may affect your child's stay at summer camp. Be sure to ask the camp director if you can not find information that you feel is a top priority for your child.Summer Camp   Facilities Be careful to look at the condition of the facilities. Do the buildings well maintained,? Or do they show signs of neededf maintenance. Rustic buildings are perfectly ok, make sure that they are not being neglected. Specific things you'll want to look for and ask about include:   Bunks: * Do children live in cabins, tents, or dorms? * How many beds are in each cabin? * Are they bunk beds or individual cots? * How do the campers choose which beds they want? * Where do the campers store their belongings? * Are the cabins to crowded? Is there enough storage space? Has the camp overbooked and crowded extra campers in? * Are the cabins clean? Are beds made by the campers and belongings stowed? * How many counselors sleep in each Cabin?   Bathrooms: *Does each bunk have it's own toilets or is there a common bathhouse? How far away are the toilets? * Do children have to walk alone at night? Is the path lighted? * Where are the showers? * If the camp is coed, how separate are the shower and toilet facilities? * Who cleans the bathrooms, and how often?   Waterfront or Swimming Pool: *Can pool accommodate all of camps swimmers? * Is the waterfront areas for swimming, boating, water skiing and diving separate and clearly marked? * What waterfront equipment is provided? * What is the supervision and ratio of lifeguards to swimmers? * Are life jackets worn during water activities? * Is swimming areas marked? * How are swimmers counted and watched? Buddy board?   The Grounds: * Are playing fields freshly reseeded and mowed? * Are the trails clearly marked? * Is the equipment in good condition?   Dinning Hall:Your child will spend alot of time in the Dinning Hall. Be sure the Camp understand this and work to make it a clean, exciting and nutritious experience If you have special dietary needs don't be forget to make sure they can accommodate your nees. <a href="http://www.swiftnaturecamp.com">Kids Summer Camp</a> *Can the whole camp to be served in one seating? * Do cabins eat together or split up? * How are meals served, buffet style or family style? * What if your childr doesn't like the main meal? what are the alternatives? Is there a salad bar? * Are snacks served? How and what are the snacks? * What is a typical menu? * What are ther credentials of the cook? * Is the kitchen inspected by local authorities? What are the safety and cleanliness standards?   Remember this article has to do with the comforts of camp and not with safety at camp. The American Camp Association has a certification program that looks at over 300 different aspects of camp. It is always best to select a camp that has been ACA Accredited. ACA CAMPS   You can learn more about selecting a wonderful Teen Summer Camp by visiting Summer Camp Advice Finding a Summer Camp How to Pick a Camp   So you are thinking about a Summer Camp for your child. First decide if your going to a Camps or a Girls Camps. Each have their own benefit. Maybe a Coed Camp is best for your child. Next, work with you child to find a camp that will increase their interests or expose them to new activities. After all that, here are the top 10 questions to ask a summer camp director. This list was compiled by the American Camp Association.   What's the camp's philosophy? Is it one you're comfortable with? Is it a good match for your child? Is competition or cooperation emphasized? If it's a camp run by a religious organization, what religious observances or practices are part of the program? If you're looking at a sports camp that touts an affiliation with a celebrity athlete, how much time--if any--will the sports star actually spend there?   How does the camp recruit, screen and train its staff? Do counselors have criminal background checks? First aid training? Drug Testing?   What about return rates? How many counselors are returning this year? The ACA says at most camps, 50 percent of the staff returns. If the number you're given is lower, ask why. How many campers return? Fifty percent is good, and more is better.   What's the ratio of counselors to campers? ACA guidelines for overnight camps call for a 1:6 ratio for ages 7 and 8, 1:8 for ages 9-14; and 1:10 for ages 15-18. Day camp guidelines call for 1:8 for children ages 6-8; 1:10 for children ages 9-14; and 1:12 for ages 15-18.   How old are the counselors? The ACA recommends that 80 percent of the staff be 18 or older and that all staffers be at least 16 and a minimum of two years older than the campers they supervise.   What medical staff work at the camp and what backup facilities are nearby? The ACA recommends that an overnight camp have a licensed physician or registered nurse on the site every day, and that day camps should have direct phone access. If your child takes medication, has food allergies or a chronic medical condition, be sure you are comfortable that the camp will be able to handle your child's needs.   How does the camp handle conflicts and Discipline? Find out what the camp's rules are and what breaches would result in a camper being sent home. You should be comfortable that the camp's practices are in line with your parenting practices.   What does a typical daily schedule look like? This will help you decide if your child will be happy with the level of physical activity or the amount of time devoted to arts and crafts. Ask how much freedom a child has to choose activities.   Will the camp be transporting the children? What vehicles are used and how often are they inspected? Who drives them and what training do drivers have?   Ask for references. Finally and most important, get the names of parents with children the same age who have attended the camp.   Still looking for ideas to help you make an informed decision? Check out Summer Camp Advice A <a href="http://www.summercampadvice.com">Summer Camp Directory</a>

Why Send a Kid to Summer Camp?   This question wouldn't even occur to most people who went to summer camp as a child ~ most of them can tell you long cherished stories they still remember in detail. The memories of summer camp are reminders of experiences with a lifetime's worth of value. Finding a Summer Camp   Children's camp can provide a child with opportunities for never ending daily fun the way few other places can. Pure, nonstop fun would be reason enough for anyone to want to be at a sleep away camp, but resident camp offers even more to a child's unfolding life, and the best camps offer a wealth of benefits. Summer Camp   Summer camps are healthy! Exercise is a part of any child?s life of play, and camp is a natural provider of constant, safe, imaginative physical play. This brings opportunities for every camper?s intellect and imagination to get plenty of exercise at the same time.   Camp offers a chance for kids to learn social interaction in a creative and independent way. Guided by capable adult friends called counselors, campers get an independent chance to apply what they have been taught at home in a larger world. If a summer camp is a coed camp, there is even more opportunity for kids to learn how to relate with members of the other gender as friends and equals rather than what advertisers promote.Summer Camp   Given our current economy sleep away camps are easily the most affordable summer care choice available. Yet, summer camp is so much more than childcare. It's a place and time for kids to gain independence, enhance their skills, make new friends and above all have fun.   Campers grow to find and be themselves, in a natural setting that gently challenges a child to newer and higher standards for their own behavior. The kids camp daily context is activities that encourage perseverance, listening skills, teamwork, and the ability to recognize similarities and appreciate differences in each individual. If it?s a nature camp or an animals camp, kids get even more opportunities to relate with the creatures of the natural worlds around us. Self discovery can become a habit that lasts a lifetime.   Camp provides opportunity to rediscover a growing life. At overnight camp kids come to a new place and try new things and make new friends. Everyone starts as an equal with a chance to just be oneself around others. Summer camp is so much more than the most affordable childcare choice parents can make?   Swift Nature Camp is one of the few camps nationwide that offers a beginning camp experience only for the first time camper. Learn More at Youth Summer Camp

The Best Summer Camp Summer camp is a very special experience that 12 million children participate in each and every summer. Yet, finding that perfect Children's Summer Camp can be a daunting task. However, parents and campers alike can go to a special camp rating page. Rate Camps That will help you by letting you read about past campers time at a particular camp. Remember, this is no substitute for doing proper background work. Yet, it can help. Swift Nature Camp is a Non-competitive, Traditional coed<a href="http://www.swiftnaturecamp.com">Summer Camp for Kids</a> in Wisconsin. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15. enjoy Nature, Animals & Science along with Traditional camping activities. Session length is 2, 3 and 6 weeks. Plus they specialize in knowing the needs of the first time camper. They even have a special program only for children that have never gone to camp before. To learn more about what campers are saying about this summer camp here are a few camper and parents quotes. Swift was the BEST camp i have ever attended! the staff was carring, the whole camp was maintained perfectly and every cabin participated in frequent and awesome activities. They pay attention to table manners and make them fun. SNC has changed me as a person inside and out. with a limit of around 2 or 3 candies a week, it was a very healthy 2 weeks. I wait eagerly for the summer so that I can attend once again. The Swift Nature Camp offers kids an opportunity to mature and be on their own while having the support and help from the staff. The kids can bring their pet to the camp and get in touch with the nature. After 6 weeks at the camp, my 13 years old son became more responsible and thankful person. He is better organized at home and in school. He is going to the Swift Nature Camp this summer again. Science Camp Since it was going to be the first time my daughter was away from home, I did alot of research on away camps. I did not know anyone who had sent their son/daughter to away camp, so I had to rely solely on my research, visit to the facilities, and gut instinct. At the end of camp, after I picked my daughter up, I knew I had made the right decision with Swift Nature Camp. She had nothing but memorable experiences to share on the way home; I knew the camp had made a positive impact on her life. This is a great experience for those who love the outdoors, or for those who have not had enough exposure to the outdoors and need more. In addition you can find more about great summer camps at Summer Camp Advice Summer Camp Information

The Best Minnesota Summer Camp Summer Camp in the North woods of Minnesota is more than the pristine beauty of lakes, forests and eagles flying overhead. To me, Summer Camp is another home with another family. But camp isn't just any family or any home, Swift Nature Camp is a special home. This summer home is filled with acceptance, love, encouragement, and true, down to earth friends who you will end up calling your camp family. Your counselors act as parents, older siblings, etc. They are great people to look up to. The campers are great friends for life. You may even end up looking at them as siblings. Acceptance is everywhere, no one kicks you out of the cabin because of who you are. Your uniqueness is celebrated. This is the main reason why I love Swift Nature Camp...it's so much more than just having fun. When you're not on canoe or backpack trips and just at camp, there is so much to do, you can never fit it all in. Other fun activities to do at camp are archery, swimming, fishing, boating, tubing, and riflery. I loved being active all day. What is real neat is rather you are a beginner or an expert in an area its ok. The counselors help you get better. All activities are noncompetitive and so we all support each other, rather than worry who is best. When I think of Swift, I think of trips. I'll never forget the Superior Hiking Trail or going to Ely. What an adventure! I loved the trails, nature, and sights of the forest. It was fun getting to know the other persons that hike with you. The wildlife you see is extremely cool. We saw hawks, bald eagles, deer, ospreys, trout, and carp. This is why I love Minnesota Camps Life in a cabin is about learning from others and with others. It is becoming a team of understanding. Sure, sometimes we had our fights or minor issues, but almost always they were resolved and we grew closer as a team for them. I always loved the Nature Center. It is a great place to learn about Nature and the Environment. The Director is always fun and teaches us loads of cool things but its not at all like school. There are all sorts of animals that are fun to observe and hold. One day they even made me feel a little more comfortable when I was homesick. I'm returning to Swift Nature Camp for all these reasons. I love camp and hope to be a Counselor in training when I'm sixteen and then a counselor when I'm eighteen. So, I'll see yawl in the North woods of Minnesota this summer!

Camp Offers More At camp, children are given the choice to take risks and try new things. This voluntary nature makes children more open to new experiences, with personal satisfaction as their motivation. Not only are there opportunities to try new things, but camp offers many areas for children to excel in. At a good general interest camp, the non-athlete can shine at arts and crafts, woodworking, or dramatic programs, while the athlete can also find many outlets for their skills. Perhaps most importantly, the two campers learn to live together and become friends despite their varied interests. Summer Camps   Camp offers children many opportunities to become competent. Practicing both new and old skills on a regular basis, it makes sense that there will be improvement. Novices have chances to learn, while those who are more experienced can improve. Learning new skills and improving on old ones builds self-esteem. Children become more independent and self-reliant at camp with their new found skills.   Sending your child to camp is giving them an opportunity to try something new. No matter how many after-school programs or lessons a child takes, its likely they will never have the opportunity to try all that is offered at summer camp. In a supportive environment, the child can try at something new. The interesting twist to these activities is that, since campers often don't know anyone else at camp before they go, they are more willing to try activities that their friends at home might not expect them to. The athlete can try out for the camp play, while the artist may dabble in sports. At camp, children can try new things and set their own goals for success.   Though years later, your child may not remember capture the flag games or the words to a camp song, the life lessons learned at camp will remain. At camp, a child learns how to take responsibility. The child who has never before made a bed, will learn how to smooth out sheets and blankets and tidy up a cubby. Though counselors will remind and encourage, campers quickly take responsibility for personal hygiene, and for more minor health issues, a camper learns to articulate what hurts and how to get help. All of this personal responsibility further fosters a sense of independence and self-esteem. Camp also improves a child's social skills by making new friends and learning how to reach out to strangers. At camp, children learn to get along with others, all while living together 24 hours a day, learning about courtesy, compromise, teamwork, and respect. Minnesota Camps   During a recent survey of campers in 20 different camps that where accredited by the American Camping Association provided answers to questions like "What did you learn at camp?" "How are you different in school because of what you did at camp last summer?" "How do you feel differently about yourself since you've been to camp?" American Camp Association   Can you think of things you learned and did at camp last summer that helped you in school this year? * I learned to have more patience and to appreciate the things I have. (10 year old female) * I feel that I am better at interacting with friends and family. The people skills learned at camp affected me dramatically when I went home. (15 year old male) * Leadership, organization, water-skiing, make my bed, keep my stuff clean, to keep in touch with my friends, respect, how to handle pressure. (13 year old female)   If explaining camp to friends, what would you say you learn here? * You learn mostly how to interact with different kinds of people and are open to different ideas. You learn how to cooperate well with others who share and don't share the same opinions as you. (15 year old female) * I learned to have fun, be a leader, discipline, and most of all - respect. (12 year old male) * You learn how to make new friends, learn different sports, and learn that camp can be a very good part of summer! (9 year old female)   Do you feel differently about yourself when you are at camp? * I feel differently because I feel like I am accomplishing something by being here. (13 year old female) * At school there are defined groups of people, but at camp, everyone feels wanted. (15 year old female) * Yes, because I'm with people my age and people who respect everyone. (11 year old male) * At camp I think that I can do more and be proud of myself. (13 year old female) * At camp I have a personality that is different from home. I'm less cautious to do fun or exciting things. I don't feel as alone as I sometimes do at home. (14 year old male) * When I'm at camp I feel that I can be more open with myself and others. I tell people things at camp I wouldn't speak of back home. I feel so much more in tune with myself here and I can discuss issues so much more openly. (15 year old male) * I don't have to be fake to anyone. Everyone here accepts me as I am and I'm not judged or criticized. (15 year old female)   Given the benefits of a sleepaway camp, it seems that all children should enroll. There are camps for almost all children, including those with special needs. However, there are certainly children who are not ready for an overnight camp experience. Be sure you and your child are ready to leave home.   Find out how to pick a summer camp at Summer Camp Advice Camp information

EARTH DAY America celebrated the first Earth Day On April 22, 1970. It was a need celebration to bring to light how polutio was killing this world. Today, Earth Day is no longer celebrated nationally but is celebrated around the globe. The earth is in better shape than those early days yet, there is a staggering divide between children and the outdoors. Richard Louv, child advocacy expert, directly blames the lack of nature in the lives on today's wired generation. He calls this phonomenon nature-deficit order and he links it to some of the most alarming trends for our kids. Including rises in obesity, attention disorders, and depression. His recent book,Last Child in the Woods, has spurred a national dialogue among educators, health professionals, parents, developers and conservationists. It clearly show we and our youth need to spend time in nature. Schools have tried to use nature in the class room for some time. At Holman School in NJ, Ms. Millar began an environmental project in the school's courtyard. It has become quite an undertaking--even gaining state recognition. It contains several habitat areas, including a Bird Sanctuary, a Hummingbird/ Butterfly Garden, A Woodland Area with a pond, and a Meadow. My students currently maintain the Bird Sanctuary--filling seed and suet feeders, filling the birdbaths, building birdhouses, even supplying nesting materials! In addition, this spring they will be a major force in the clean up and replanting process. They always have energy and enthusiasm for anything to do with "their garden". Despite schools doing their best to get kids in nature , we as a nation have lost the ability to just send our kids out to play. Summer Camps are a great wayto fill this void. A recent study finds that todays parents overprotect their kids. Kids have stopped climbing trees, been told that they can't play tag or hide-and-seek Not to mention THE STTICK and how it will put out someone's eye. Can technology be the blamefor the decline in outdoor play? Adrian Voce says "Children are not being allowed many of the freedoms that were taken for granted when we were children," "They are not enjoying the opportunities to play outside that most people would have thought of as normal when they were growing up." According to the Guardian, "Voce argued that it was becoming a 'social norm' for younger children to be allowed out only when accompanied by an adult. 'Logistically that is very difficult for parents to manage because of the time pressures on normal family life,' he said. 'If you don't want your children to play out alone and you have not got the time to take them out then they will spend more time on the computer.' Many play providers see the benefits to children of taking risks. "Risk-taking increases the resilience of children," said one. "It helps them make judgments," said another. We as parents want to play it safe and we need to rethink thr benefit of adventure in a childs life. Examples of risky play that should be encouraged include fire-building, den-making, watersports and climbing trees. These are all activities that a Summer camp can provide. At camp children to get outside take risks and play, this while being supervised by responsible young adults. Swift Nature Camp is a Traditional OUTDOOR CAMP in Wisconsin. Where Boys and Girls Ages 6-15. enjoy Nature, Animals & Science along with Traditional camping activities. Swift is a Nature Camp that develops a childs desire to know more about nature but also on acquiring a deep respect for it. Our philosophy is to engage children in fun-filled learning through active participation and natural curiosity. Our Noncompetive atmosphere promotes all skill levels. Swift Nature Camp provides activities that allows children to excel and enjoy thus, giving each camper the opportunity to participate and have fun, rather than worry about results. Out-of-camp trips, such as biking, canoeing, backpacking and horse trips are a great way to get kids out in nature. Kids love to discover new worlds and learn to be comfortable in them. This is why Swift is so much more than just a SCIENCE SUMMER CAMP. Earth day has provided so much..but their is more we can learn from nature. This summer help your child regain their appreciation for nature by sending them to Swift Nature Camp. This is an opportunity that will be treasured the rest of your child's life.

Summer Camps with Animals At Animals Camps Kids find out about animals at summer camp, if you choose a camp that includes animals in the programs they offer. Science camps offer sophisticated learning programs, but there are summer camps that include animals as a part of more playful programs. Getting to know animals through firsthand interaction reawakens a childs sense of connection with nature. Experience with animals as a camper can begin a growing and lifelong respect for nature. Swift Nature Camp best known as Outdoors Camp has a pond aquarium that offers a unique way to see the world from the perspective of another animal: pond life from a frogs point of view. The Wisconsin camp also maintains a live animal collection they call Natures Neighbors. Campers can bring their own small animals to camp with them where the animals can live in the camps Nature Center and be available to all the children Swift Nature Camp offers campers wider experience to understand animals and how we coexist with them by arranging field trips to a fish hatchery, goose banding projects and butterfly counts. And what child will ever forget a close up visit with a live owl? Animals are a part of Swift Nature Camps voluntary merit program, in which campers can earn special patches by learning skills in categories such as insects, bird watching, pet care, and horseback riding. Acquiring skills is never separate from the fun and play that is a part of being a camper. The summer camp you choose should facilitate a blend of play and challenge that is free of the stress of the school environment. The presence of animals in a natural environment can open the door to discovery, adding depth to the fun of going to a traditional summer camp. To accomodate that range with a voluntary merit program that includes experience with animals. A camper\'s interaction with animals can be refined into skills involving horseback riding, insects, pet care and bird watching. These opportunities never come at the expense of fun! Discovering nature and the world we live in. Living in a natural environment Like camp is a perfect way for kids to play and grow. When children play with animals rather than just receiving information, they learn. Camp is more about fun and has far less stressful than school. You can learn more about selecting a wonderful summer camp by visiting Summer Camp Advice Find a Summer Camp