Hey, Campers!
One of the most important parts about a fun summer camp experience is forging great friendships. Camp is a prime place to meet lots of new people, develop your social skills, and have a ton of fun. It’s a perfect recipe for long-lasting friendships!
Making friends isn’t really hard work at all. But you do need to be open-minded. Everybody’s different by the way we look, dress, act, speak, etc. Making friends begins with respecting everyone at camp. You don’t need to become everyone’s best friend—you don’t even need to LIKE everyone at camp.
You do, however, need to get along with everyone. Being respectful of everyone at camp means treating them the way you want them to treat you. You should work with your cabin mates. Listen to your leader and pitch in. Always be a good sport whether you win or lose. Use good manners. And keep your things in order so you never add to a mess.
These are just a few examples of how to be respectful at camp. Can you think of more ways? Go ahead and share them by commenting to this Blog post.
While making friends isn’t hard work, it tends to come easier to some than it will for others. Here are some pointers you can look through to get some ideas for putting yourself out there in case you aren’t overly familiar with meeting new people.
What’s in a Name?
Introduce yourself by telling people your name. Walk up and say, “Hi, my name is_____” Hold out your hand and shake while you look your fellow camper in the eye and smile. Say, “pleased to meet you.” And maybe say something about yourself like what grade of school you’re in or where you’re from.
What’s There to Talk About?
Camp itself is something to talk about How did your new friend find the camp? What year of camp are they in? Did they travel far to be there? A C&N Camp Trunk is also a great conversation piece. In fact, bringing one of our awesome Designer Trunks could have kids coming up to YOU to say what a cool trunk you have.
Bring the Fun
Camp is all about having fun and that’s really the best way to make friends! Laughing and having fun is a great bonding experience. What’s a game you like to play? Think of something like a Frisbee or football and suggest a game of catch. Maybe it’s cards, or tag, a game of H-O-R-S-E, jumprope, etc. Bring it along and get the fun rollin’!
Camp is sure to be a blast. Go prepared to have a great time and meet lots of fun folks like yourself! Be confident, be yourself, and you’re sure to develop some great friendships at camp! Learn more about camp prep with the helpful guidebook 'The Summer Camp Handbook'. As always, thanks for reading and happy camping.
- John