You can almost narrow them down to superhero archetypes — the campers you're destined to deal with this summer are just that predictable. No matter what camp you're a counselor at, some variation of these 10 kids will definitely be there.
1. The Super-Athlete.
This kid excels at whatever you throw their way, and, to the counselors, they’re a complete blessing to your camp. Better believe they’re gonna win each station, drill, race, game, and have the best celebrations.
2. The Injury-Prone.
You’re out of Band-Aids on day one because this kid found a reason to need all of them. Every little scratch, bump, and bruise brings a full-blown stop to everything and requires an instant ice pack, alcohol wipe, and bandage.
3. The Sharer.
Thank goodness for this blessing of a child, because they’ll share any piece of equipment, food, or space with the other campers. These quiet do-gooders are just what you need to appease some of their fellow campers.
4. The Quiet Listener.
Another gift to their counselors, these kids are the sweetest kind of obedient. Even in the midst of the chaos that is summer camp, you can count on them to follow directions and be ready.
5. “No.”
There’s really no adjective to describe these kids because the only word that comes out of their mouth is “No,” or some other negative variation like “nothing,” or “never.” You always hope you can get through the summer without them, but there’s always one.
6. The Hugger.
That’s always that kid who latches on — literally — from day one and just doesn’t let go. You better be a counselor who likes being hung off of, piggy-backed on, and hugged. A lot.
7. The Runner.
When everyone else is sitting down and enjoying snack in the shade, there’s always one kid tearing around with an endless amount of energy. If you’re lucky, they’ll put it into the activities too!
8. The One Who Just Seems to Be Signed Up for the Wrong Camp.
Most likely, Mom and Dad plopped this kid here for the glorified babysitting, and they’re somehow just incredibly out of place. It’s no one’s fault, but they either find some weird thing to do on the side or just seem to float through the day.
9. The Follower.
That kid who latches on to “no” is almost as much trouble because they’ll follow anything the stubborn one does or says. Sheep to the shepherd, they think it’s funny to frustrate you at every opportunity.
10. The Friends.
Those two who just can’t be separated, who have to be on the same team for everything, and have varying reactions if you say they can’t. They’re either the best pair in the world or the worst, but either way it’s up to you to separate them or keep them together.