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What do GREAT Counselors Do?
What do GREAT Counselors Do?
Connect with each camper quickly. Within the first night of camp, give personal attention to each camper. Ask lots of questions, listen well and learn their name. The end result, each camper feels connected to their counselor.
Be right in there with the kids. Do not be an aloof, stand-off leader. Help with clean up, enjoy playing, demonstrate that camp is fun by joining in songs, show that by acting child-like, it’s OK for kids to enjoy camp.
Plan and organize great activities. Think ahead, gather materials before activities, respect kid’s time by being prepared, fill their day with FUN.
Act as a team member with other staff. Talk a lot with your fellow counselors, advocates and program staff. Ask for help. Share ideas. Use good ideas you learn from others.
Recognize danger signals, act quickly. Be acutely aware, watch children closely for moping, not eating, crying, sunburn, bullying etc. Be proactive in preventing problems. Create a plan to resolve conflict and problems right away.
Model the values and philosophy of camp. Take camps' goals and teachings to heart. Take personal responsibility for the success of camp and the creation of positive culture.
Create a safe, secure and enjoyable place for kids. Balance camp standards with spontaneity and flexibility. Protects campers from harm - emotionally and physically.
Manage personal stress and stress of campers. Be aware of your own fatigue and make smart decisions to take care of yourself. Maintain composure, even in times of crisis or emergency.
Reflection Questions
Think back to when you were camper age (7-11). Is there an adult that made you feel welcomed, included, and valued? What qualities did that role model display that gave you a positive childhood experience that you remember?
Looking at the 8 qualities of a good counselor above, which one do you think you will succeed best at? How can you demonstrate this to other counselors and help them improve in this area?
Of the 8 qualities above, which one do you think will be the most difficult to consistently demonstrate? Identify one goal for yourself to improve in this area. What resources might you use to help you?
How might you handle the stress and challenges of being a camp professional? Who can you ask for help when you need it? What resources might you access to achieve your goals of being a great camp counselor?
Who would your parents want to be your camp counselor?
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