6 Summer Camp Rules You Need to Know
At summer camp, the usual rule of thumb is 'if you wouldn't say/do/wear in front of your Mum or Grandma, then it's probably best to keep it at home'.
Camp Leaders
The nitty gritty on summer camp rules.
At summer camp, the usual rule of thumb is 'if you wouldn't say/do/wear in front of your Mum or Grandma, then it's probably best to keep it at home'.
You're taking on new responsibilities at camp, not just for yourself. You are responsible to your campers and those around you to ensure you all have the best summer possible, which means sticking to the script with certain things.
Here's a rundown of some summer camp rules you'll likely have to stick to when away.
1. Avoid campers questions on your 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 fantastic.
Getting to know your campers is so crucial for building bonds.
Introducing someone to a new culture is something they will remember forever.
However, some campers may take it too far and ask personal questions about things that don't relate to camp (hey, we all did as kids).
These questions might be about your relationships, political views, or other "adulty" things that aren't as fun as horse riding or canoeing.
It's best to dodge these questions, as they can be Pandora's box on where they lead.
Instead, as one of the general summer camp rules, flick the conversation towards all the exciting activities they can do at camp, or don't be afraid to set conversational boundaries with them.
2. Keep your approach age-appropriate
A lot of the laws in the U.S. are different to everywhere else (such as the U.S. drinking age).
This means there might be lots of things you can do at home that would be illegal if you did in America.
So, let's not. Just enjoy immersing yourself in the wonderful culture that is the U.S.
There are still loads of things you can try. Why not hike a mountain in a U.S national park? Or learn a new skill? Or become best friends with everyone on camp?
It's best to appreciate the opportunity of being in the U.S. and leave everything else at home.
3. No phone use while working
What is the most underrated thing about being surrounded by beautiful wildlife in the wilderness? 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 appreciate each other and the lack of technology, whilst also finding new talents.
Ever tried D&D or Irish Snap? Camp is a great way to find yourself and experience new things you would've never thought of.
You'll thank me later.
4. No offensive 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 an excellent 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 phrases like 'bin that' 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.
Keep in mind the rules, and you'll have the summer of a lifetime.
5. Keep your clothing summer camp friendly
Camp is a peculiar office space. It's warm, fun, and you're running around having the best time of your life, so you must be comfy.
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 colourful 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. Where else can you run around shouting, "It's Morphin Time"?
6. Keep your social media clean
Posting about camp is one of the best reasons for going.
All your friends will be jealous of your incredible camp shots, endless camp tees, high-fiving, and smiles. Even 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 have. Just make sure that everything you're posting is appropriate or private.
We guarantee the campers are probably even better versed in finding people on social media than you are. They'll find you, whether you want them to or not, so keep it clean, even if you think only your friends can see.
Camp is a phenomenal experience that should be shared with everyone.
Summer camp rules aren't there to make things boring; quite the opposite.
It ensures the entire environment is open, safe, and fun for everyone involved. That includes the campers, colleagues, and, more importantly, yourself.
By sticking to these summer camp rules, you'll make the summer as good as possible for anyone you encounter.
