FAQ’s

Camp sounds like a lot of play and fun but what specifically are the children doing in their group?

For children entering and completing Kindergarten, our program is a launch into learning which provides young children with opportunities to practice essential reading and writing skills. Daily instruction includes read-alouds as this is the best way to model how good readers sound. Also included are literacy-based activities targeting skills in phonemic awareness, decoding, sight word recognition, vocabulary, writing and most importantly comprehension – all in a fun atmosphere. Learning is within their ‘zone of proximal development’ to build a foundation that is stress-free and successful and fosters desire to learn.

We continue to drive our instruction based on research about best practices. At this one-of-a-kind camp, children experience a unique and rewarding journey at this special program where learning comes alive in extraordinary ways. The benefits extend well past the three-week program, creating lasting impact on young learners.

In our Intermediate Program for children completing grades 3-5 the approach consists of reading to learn. It is student-centered learning with direction, scaffolding and guidance.

Stories are approached from a writer’s point of view. Campers engage in stimulating group discussions and learn to appreciate different perspectives.

Leadership/Community Outreach:

This program is geared for middle-schoolers. It includes activities and challenges to develop leadership skills as well as school required or individual selected readings to develop deeper comprehension through enriching discussion. A community outreach project that paints words and design into an artistic piece that is donated to a children’s center is also included.

This group spends their afternoons training to become volunteers and practicing learned skills with young campers. (It is an optional choice)

As with all our groups, there is a treasure trove of books specifically geared toward the summer theme. Books are chosen for their literary value and story line. Campers are free to take books home for the evening and usually want to.

Why do children need a summer reading/writing program?

During the school year, children are more stressed than ever as our schools are mandated to give more tests and fight for rankings. In the summer, children need a break but they still need to feed their love of learning with stimulating, enriching experiences.

Since this is not your typical camp and not a usual reading/writing program, children experience a unique and rewarding experience with benefits that extend well past the three-week program.

Feedback from families is that their child started the new school year more confident and motivated.

Does everyone stay for the enrichment program?

Enrichment is an optional afternoon program that most of the children participate in. Even after camp has begun, many non-participating campers request to join our afternoon program and stay all day.

Do children need to attend all three weeks?

Camp is based on a three-week theme that begins and ends with a celebration. In order to get the most benefit out of the experience, the three weeks are recommended. In fact, every child who has attended camp for a shorter time wants to come back and stay the entire three weeks. We have families that base their vacation around camp dates.