Hey, Camp Folks!

Often enough, campers really love just a couple activities or maybe even just one. Depending on their interests, children may sign themselves up for an abundance of just those few activities that they’re all about. When seeing campers creating a schedule of just a few different activities, the camp counselor say, “Hey campers, remember, don't put all your eggs in one basket!"

That means it's great to enjoy one thing, but it's even better to try different stuff too. It’s good for campers to take full advantage of time spent at camp for a number of reasons:

• They may discover a newfound love for an activity that they otherwise wouldn’t have tried. 
• It’s good for campers to push themselves out of their comfort zone at least a little. 
• The more activities they take, the more kids they’ll meet. 
• And, while they may not excel in one or two activities, they’ll have many other chances to shine.

But back to the phrase—Don’t put your all your eggs in one basket. Why do we say this?

The saying comes from a story written a long time ago by Miguel de Cervantes in 1605—‘Don Quixote’. A wise character in the story said not to risk everything on just one idea, like putting all your eggs in one basket. This wise advice transcends time and applies to various aspects of life, including personal, financial, and yes, even summer camp experiences.

So, instead of spending all your time perfecting one skill at summer camp, why not give pottery a spin or join the hiking group? By exploring various activities, you'll have a blast and maybe even uncover a hidden talent you never knew you had! Till next time, Camp Folks. Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Surf’s up, Fashionable Camp Folks!

Are you ready to catch a wave of style and comfort at summer camp? Just shop the Billabong brand right here at Everything Summer Camp! This iconic Australian surf and beachwear clothing line that’s been making waves since 1973 was founded by Gordon Merchant. He started out with humble beginnings, crafting his board shorts on the kitchen table. However, these shorts quickly became a worldwide phenomenon synonymous with the surfing life!

This brand offers cool clothes that everyone loves, perfect for soaking up the sun and embracing the laidback surfer vibe! Go from lounging by the lake to hiking the trails, or just chill with friends around the campfire—Billabong's stylish and comfortable apparel ensures your camper looks relaxed and feels cool all summer long. 

From classic board shorts to trendy graphic tees and comfy hoodies, Billabong's collection is designed with quality materials and attention to detail. Each piece embodies the spirit of adventure and freedom that comes with beach culture, making it a perfect choice for campers who love to explore and embrace the outdoors.

So hit the waves or just enjoy the summer breeze wearing your go-to brand for outfitting your camper’s summer adventures in style. Embrace the surf spirit, explore the outdoors, and make every moment count with Billabong's timeless and versatile collection. Dive into summer and experience the joy of living the beach lifestyle wherever the camp journeys lead.

Embrace your inner chill with Billabong's surf-inspired clothing found at our online summer camp store and gear up for a summer filled with fun, sun, and unforgettable adventures! Till next time, Camp Folks! Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey there, young explorers! 

Nothing matches the feeling of getting immersed in nature, discovering new sights, and feeling the thrill of adventure. Are you ready to embark on an exciting hiking adventure? Today, we're going to dive into some awesome tips for your outdoor excursions so you stay safe and smiling the whole way through! Grab your backpacks and hiking boots, folks! And get ready to step into the wild world of hiking!

Unless you’re going to computer camp or something like that, walking the surrounding nature trails is pretty much a universal summer camp activity. Hiking gives us a chance to connect with nature, discover all the different plants and animals, and reach new heights. Are you excited? Let's explore how to make the most of your hiking adventure!

Choosing the Right Trail

The goal is to have fun and enjoy the outdoors while challenging yourself appropriately. First things first—picking the perfect trail is key! Here are some tips to help you choose:

• Fitness Level: Pick a trail that matches your energy and fitness level. Are you up for an easy stroll or a more challenging hike?
  
• Length and Difficulty: Check how long the trail is and how hard it might be. Shorter trails are great for beginners!
  
• Terrain: Pay attention to the type of ground you'll walk on. Some trails are rocky, while others are smooth and easy. 
  
• Leave No Trace Principles: Explanation of the Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact while hiking, such as packing out trash and respecting wildlife.

Packing for Your Adventure

With the proper essentials packed and organized, you'll be ready for a fantastic day out on the trail! Choose a comfy backpack that fits your stuff (around 20-30 liters is typically good for a daylong endeavor. Now, let's pack up for a great hiking adventure! Here's what you'll need to pack along:

• 
  Essential Gear: Bring a map or GPS, sunscreen, a first aid kit (just in case!), and a cozy emergency blanket.
  
• Hydration: Carry plenty of water and maybe some tasty electrolyte snacks to keep you going strong.
  
• Clothing: Wear comfy, weather-appropriate clothes. Layers are your best friend!
  Food and Snacks: Pack yummy treats like trail mix and a balanced lunch to keep your energy up.
  
• Personal Items: Don’t forget essentials like a multi-tool, whistle, and your emergency contact info.
  
• Optional Gear: Bring a camera to capture awesome memories, trekking poles for extra support, and bug repellent if you're hiking in mosquito territory.

Properly Lacing Your Hiking Boots

Last but not least, you’ll want to lace up those boots for a comfy journey! Ensure your footwear fits snug and secure for a great time out. Properly lacing your boots can make all the difference in comfort and support during your hike. Try experimenting with these techniques to find what works best for you:

• Standard Criss-Cross Lacing: Start at the bottom and criss-cross your laces all the way up. Tie them snugly at the top for a secure fit!
  
• Heel Lock Technique: After lacing up, create loops at the top and cross your laces through them. This keeps your heels snug and happy.
  
• Window Lacing: Skip an eyelet or two where your foot feels tight to relieve pressure. Lace up around the "window" for comfy toes!
  
• Toe Reliever Lacing: Skip the last eyelet and lace straight across for extra toe room. Your piggies will thank you!
  
• Double-Back Lacing: Thread your laces back through the top eyelets for extra ankle support. Secure them tightly for a steady stride.

Remember, the right lacing technique makes a big difference in how comfy your feet feel on the trail. Each technique offers unique benefits, from preventing heel slippage to relieving pressure points. Take the time to lace up your hiking boots properly so you enjoy a comfortable fit and minimize the risk of blisters or discomfort during your hiking endeavors.

These tips are sure to set you up for a great time. Gather your gear, lace up those boots, and hit the trails to explore nature's wonders. Enjoy the fresh air, stunning views, and moments of tranquility that hiking brings. Happy hiking, adventurers! Till next time, Camp Folks. Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Hiking!

- John

Hey, Camp Parents!

Deciding when the time is right for your child to attend summer camp is a decision that often relies on intuition and keen observation. Christopher Thurber and Jon Malinowski, summer camp experts and authors of ‘The Summer Camp Handbook’, emphasize that children themselves are the best judges of when they are ready for camp. 

Has Your Child Asked about Camp?

When kids express spontaneous interest in attending camp or show excitement after seeing camp brochures or hearing about camp from friends, it's often a good indicator that the time is right.

Thurber and Malinowski recommend that children be at least 7 years old before spending a week or more at overnight camp. However, there are individual differences in children's preferences, maturity, and ability to tolerate separation from home, so some children may be ready at a slightly younger or older age. It's essential to choose a camp where your child's age group is well represented among other campers to ensure a positive experience.

How Long Will They be Gone?

The length of the camp session is another factor to consider. Shorter sessions, such as one week, can provide children with a sense of belonging and independence, while longer sessions may offer deeper friendships and program involvement. Parents should also consider their child's experience with previous separations from home, as well as their child's attitude towards camp.

Families experiencing stressful events or transitions may want to postpone camp enrollment until things have settled down. Parents should monitor their own attitudes and behaviors, as children are sensitive to their parents' emotions. Providing positive support and encouragement can help alleviate any concerns your child may have about attending camp.

Ultimately, the decision to send your child to camp should be a collaborative one between you and your child. Going to camp should be something your child WANTS to do. Discuss any concerns or fears your child may have. And if you and your child are unsure about camp, you can always wait until the next year to see if they’re feeling more ready. 

And if the decision is a yes, your child is going to have lots of fun adventures and make new friends! Till next time, Camp Folks. Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Nature Lovers!

Outdoor camping trips have remained at the heart of the summer camp experience since the very beginning. Essentially, they’re what summer camp is all about: escaping the big city and reconnecting with nature to help further our physical, emotional, and spiritual development. For one man, the summer camp experience wouldn’t be enough. He up and moved his family out of the city and into the wilderness of Madison, Wisconsin to escape the city life permanently.

Born in 1887, a true lover of nature, he spent his early years exploring the outdoors with his family. He studied at Yale University and later joined the Forest Service. But by 1935, he was done with living in the city. 

Aldo believed that humans should view themselves as members of a larger community that includes the land, plants, and animals. He took careful notes about the plants and animals that surrounded his new home and kept journal entries that reflected his philosophy. 

His most notable work, ‘The Sand County Almanac’ was published in 1949. Along with his essays and other written works, his unique approach to the natural world has changed the way scientists think about it. He developed this concept into something he called a ‘land ethic’. 

The home that Aldo built and lived in with his family is still standing, not too far away from the Aldo Leopold Nature Center. Having visited myself a number of years back, I can say it is a truly inspiring experience. 

- John