6 Rules to Expect at Summer Camp

1. Personal Life

Kids love to ask questions.

As you’re from an entirely new place, they will want to know anything and everything about you, which is amazing. Getting to know your campers is so important for building the bonds. Introducing someone to a new culture is something they will remember forever. Some campers may take it too far and ask personal questions, about things that don’t really matter at camp. These questions might be about your relationship, political views, or other sorts of "adulty" things that aren’t as fun as horse riding or canoeing. This is a great way to avert their attention to all the exciting activities they can do at camp.

2. Age-Appropriate

A lot of the laws in the US are different to everywhere else. This means there might be lots of things you can do at home, that if you did in America would be illegal. So, let’s not, and just enjoy immersing yourself in the wonderful culture that is the US, and just enjoy all the age-appropriate wonders that the US has to offer. Why not hike a mountain? Or learn a new skill? Or become best friends with everyone on camp? It's best to just appreciate the opportunity of being in the US and leave everything else at home.

3. Phones

What is the most underrated thing about being in the wilderness, surrounded by beautiful wildlife? No phone service.

Okay, hear me out, it might not seem that life-changing but honestly once you’re all chilling in the staff room, without any distraction, just having a laugh and getting to know each other, you’ll understand. You will really start to appreciate each other and the lack of technology. You will also find some new talents. Ever tried D&D or Irish Snap? Camp is not only a great way to find yourself, but also to experience new things you would’ve never thought of. You’ll thank me later.

4. Language

Foul language is a definite no. Anything that would or could be perceived as offensive is 100% not okay, as you'd imagine with kids. This isn’t just a great rule for camp but in life. You're a role model to the campers, so be the best you can. Why not teach them fun words from home (but keep in mind that once you start, there's no end to the kids repeating words like 'bin' and 'nah then'). For example, the campers loved when I would teach them how to speak Yorkshire - even the counselors would have no idea what I was saying, it's brilliant.

5. Dress Code

Camp is a peculiar office space. It’s warm, fun, and you’re running around having the best time of your life.

The most important thing to remember is, being a counselor is a job, and camp is your workplace - so the dress code is still in effect. This doesn’t mean you can’t wear your bright pink and orange all in one - quite the contrary. Be as colorful and crazy as you possibly can. It just means the length (and amount) of clothing is something to consider. So, if you wouldn’t let your mum see it, it’s probably not for camp. Why not dress as a Smurf? Or a Power Ranger? From experience, a Green Power Ranger costume isn't too hard to throw together, and where else can you run around shouting "It's Morphin Time."

6. Social Media 

Posting about camp is one of the best reasons for going. All your friends will be jealous of your incredible camp shots, the endless camp tees, high fiving and smiles. Even all your distant relatives will be commenting and wishing you well. (Who doesn't love their mum's cousin's uncle's brother's dog walker commenting, "you look lovely!!!" with 3 kissy faces on their latest photo?).

Social media can be an awesome tool to show everyone how much fun you’re having. Just make sure that everything you're posting is appropriate or private. Camp is a phenomenal experience that should be shared with everyone.