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.

In our Elementary Program for children completing Grades 1-2, small group and individual reading and writing instruction, of reading to, with and individually. This is accompanied by engaging creative writing and reader responses.  Arts-based learning activities are included since visual expression complements their learning.

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 and what is STEM or STEAM?

Enrichment is an optional afternoon program that most of the children participate in. STEAM is our new enrichment program that teaches creative problem solving with  3D challenges.

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.