While winter might be here to stay for a couple more months, we’re quickly approaching warmer temps and longer days. While it may seem far away, we know the anticipation for the upcoming summer camp season is building.
Although it may not appear like there’s a lot to do months out, there’s a laundry list of items you can prepare for the upcoming summer camp season. To ensure a seamless experience for both campers and staff, here are some things you can do in the off-season to gear up for a summer full of fun.
How to Prepare For the Upcoming Summer Camp Season
Staff Training and Final Recruitment
The backbone of any successful summer camp is its staff–which is why it’s so important to start your preparations here. Assess your existing team and identify any areas that may need final reinforcements. It’s important to recruit passionate camp leaders who align with your values and are committed to creating a positive environment for the children. If you have any issues with the staff you’ve recruited thus far, it is better to address these issues now, while you have time.
Once your final recruiting has been completed, provide thorough training sessions covering safety protocols, emergency procedures, and effective communication skills. Well-trained staff not only ensures the well-being of campers but also guarantees that everyone walks away from camp having made the most out of the experience.
Recommended Reading: Tips For Camp Counselor Recruiting
Safety Protocols
Speaking of safety protocols, safety is vital in any camp setting–so much so that we’re touching on it twice. Along with the basic safety measures, set your staff up for success with training on health protocols, first aid, and emergency response plans.
This ensures that staff members are familiar with and adhere to safety guidelines at all times throughout the camp season. It’s also crucial to regularly inspect the camp facilities, equipment, and infrastructure to spot and address potential hazards.
Program Development
Building an engaging program is a must to keep campers excited and invested. Work together with experienced program directors and activity coordinators to design a well-balanced schedule that includes a mix of traditional and creative activities. Consider incorporating educational components that align with the interests of campers. Of course, flexibility is essential. Allow for adjustments based on feedback and unexpected developments.
Enhanced Communication
Clear and open communication can make or break a successful summer camp experience. Implementing effective communication channels between camp administrators, staff, campers, and parents will pay huge dividends when camp is in full swing.
Utilize tools such as social media and newsletters to keep everyone in the loop about important dates, schedule changes, and camp highlights. Creating an online community will get campers and their families even more excited about the upcoming season. The more excited they are, the bigger the buzz they create. The bigger the buzz, the more likely you are to get new camper sign-ups.
Not sure what to post on your social media accounts while things are slower? WaldoCamps can help. With Waldo, you can use the advanced tagging and search features to have the perfect photo at your fingertips for that next social media post or mailer. Also, thanks to our AI-powered photo delivery to families,. You get a lot of marketing muscle from your families as they post your camp-branded photos on social. That’s what we call a win/win for everyone involved.
Recommended Reading: Summer Camp Social Media Ideas For the Off-Season
Environmental Sustainability
If sustainability is important to you, spend the offseason figuring out new eco-friendly practices to minimize the camp’s environmental impact. Options include implementing recycling programs, reducing single-use plastic, and encouraging campers to connect with nature responsibly. Adding nature-based activities to your itinerary is a great way to get your campers outside in the great outdoors while also teaching them the responsibility of taking care of our planet.
Inclusivity and Diversity
Focus on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity. Develop programs that highlight different cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Train staff to recognize and address potential biases, ensuring every camper feels valued and accepted. This sense of unity and understanding among campers can go much farther than you realize.
Final Thoughts
As the summer camp season countdown begins, preparation is the key to a successful and memorable experience. By focusing on the aforementioned training, program development, and more, summer camps can create an environment that’s truly life-changing.
Waldo is here to help you get more value from your camp’s content, and, in doing so, strengthen your community, grow your camp’s brand awareness, and make recruiting both counselors and campers easier. To see how (and why it’s important), check out this blog!
