Whatâ€™s Happening in This Picture?

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Whatâ€™s Happening in This Picture?

The photos below show a number of iconic images of camp – kids having fun, making friends, busy with activities. They represent what most of us think of when someone says “summer camp.”

But there’s more.

Those of us involved in camp – and many more who have had a camp experience themselves – can see what else is happening in these photos.

For example, in the photo of the campers feeding our goats, I see the following:

kids are learning responsibility in caring for another living creature
campers are learning about sustainability and New Jersey’s heritage as the Garden State

The picture of girls playing cards in their cabin tells these stories:

campers are interacting with each other and building stronger relationships
the kids are learning about the give-and-take that comes from sharing a camp cabin with nine other people
they’re “unplugged” and away from computers, television and video games – creating their own fun

And finally, the photo of two boys scaling our climbing wall says this:

we’re building self-confidence by trying new things
we’re trusting others – the belayers – to keep us safe
we’re being active and improving our physical fitness

Now, you try it! Take a look at these remaining two photos and tell me what you see. Feel free to email me your thoughts: dave@campmason.org

We will use this exercise with our seasonal staff this year to reinforce the importance of their work and the impact that a positive camp experience can have on a child.

As the American Camp Association tagline says, “Camp give kids a world of good.” We sometimes need to stop and remember just how important a camp experience can be!

Dave DeLuca
Chief Executive Officer