My first job was at a water park. While it was a good job, it did not do much to increase my experience in education. Now, I am a camp counselor. Being a camp counselor is awesome, but it’s definitely different than doing student teaching in a classroom. Here are a few things I struggle with when it comes to switching roles.
1. Being engaging
It’s sometimes difficult to engage kids when you aren’t in a classroom setting. In a classroom, kids typically know where they sit and what is going on every day. There is a very consistent schedule, and kids are very aware of what’s going on. But, not summer camp. While there is some constructed schedule, it’s not as uniform as a traditional classroom. This can lead to a struggle with engagement. Kids have a difficult time engaging in something when they don’t know what they’re doing next or how long it will last. Summer camp is typically more relaxed, too, so kids are less likely to want to participate in an activity that doesn’t particularly pique their interest. That said, at the beginning of camp, I was incredibly insecure about my ability to engage kids. But, as the week went on and as we all got to know each other, it was easier to engage the kids and pick activities they would enjoy. You only have one week to wow them.
2. Not having to conform to standards
Public schools require a conformity to very specific standards that require year-long strategic planning. Summer camp goes week-per-week. Different kids, different plans. The beauty of that is you can change up the routines and activities as needed. There’s not really a significant end goal other than to have fun. For someone high strung and future-thinking like me, focusing on the fun in the moment can be difficult. As long as everyone is safe and happy, it is worth it.
3. Rules
Concerning discipline, a camp may not have the same disciplinary actions as a public school. This can be difficult on an individual basis as there may not be a strong policy in place for discipline.
There're different rules for different institutions, but summer camp provides a little more leeway as far as activities go. You can start and stop an activity when you would like and as needed. If you want to do something, you can just do it. Depending on the activity, permission is required, but as far as independent activities, there is more freedom to maneuver (especially without having to conform to standards). This can help loosen schedules, but can be difficult to fill the time with activities. Once you find core activities that most kids enjoy, it isn’t as difficult.
I absolutely enjoy working with kids. As a self-proclaimed 5-year old, I enjoy being actively involved in their projects and activities. While every experience is different, every experience makes me love my job that much more.
