Belonging to each other means we bring each other along with our shared values. Take care of yourself, take care of each other, and take care of our campus. We say this out loud; we have tangible practices like drinking plenty of water, showing a new camper how lunch works, and picking up litter when we find it. We model kindness, we use affirmative language, we solve problems and build skills instead of doling out punitive measures and praise for only a few. Belonging means you are valued even if transitions are hard, even if you don’t love the climbing wall, even if belonging hasn’t always come easy…

“ 'Confidence is the enemy of anxiety' is another nugget that Dr Rao shared.  As children build skills in self-regulation, self-expression, flexibility, perspective taking and more- they grow more confident, more autonomous, and more immune to the stress of their day. We camp professionals know a well-rounded day of play and meaningful activity are an amazing way to serve children of all ages, now we also know the power of our camp culture to unwind some of the stress and anxiety our world is dishing out..."