Archives for 2026

Camp Counselors: Skills that Can’t Be Taught

June 23, 2026 by Jen Cippoletti Leave a Comment

My oldest daughter left for camp today to start her 3^rd summer as a counselor and 11^th overall at camp. Her summers at camp have been impactful to say the least, giving her all the benefits a parent can hope for: independence, resilience, grit, new experiences and tremendous friendships. Over the years, she has also completed incredible backpacking trips and community service experiences, but camp has always been the constant.

The transition from camper to counselor is huge, as years of carefree summer fun quickly give way to real responsibility. Staff training includes how to deal with homesickness, bed wetting, hygiene, neurodivergence, group dynamics, conflict resolution, and safety procedures in all areas of camp. Yet, many issues that counselors deal with are not easily covered in staff training and require creativity, flexibility, and “on the job” skill development. A good counselor can spot problems before they explode, always with an eye to ensure that cabin dynamics are not negatively impacted. They learn to meet campers where they are and problem solve in real-time. A key set of skills is identifying the kid who needs extra support, figuring out how to give the camper what he or she needs, and offering such support without taking away from other campers who also need a counselor’s guidance and positive presence. Issues differ by age group, and counselors need to be able to handle an 8 year old who might be afraid of the lake or a 14 year old who struggles to make friends. All this while maintaining a positive attitude and enthusiasm for a job that is both not well-paid and basically 24 hours a day.

The skills developed as a counselor at sleepaway camp or an instructor on a teen trip are easily transferable to life beyond camp – whether it’s living with people unlike you, understanding how to motivate others, working with a team towards a mutual outcome, dealing with difficult bosses, and staying positive even in the most unpleasant circumstances – these skills are invaluable for any adult.

Tips on Trips and Camps can help direct you to an overnight summer camp or trip that will give your kids a chance to be guided by these incredible counselors – and perhaps become one themselves someday!

The Magic of Camp’s First week

June 23, 2026 by Romina Faulb Leave a Comment

This week marks the beginning of the summer camp season for many overnight camps across the country. Campers are unpacking their duffel bags, meeting cabin mates, learning camp traditions, and beginning what will likely become one of the highlights of their summer. For many families, the first week of overnight camp can feel like a leap of faith. Parents have packed everything, navigated the drop-off, and said their goodbyes. Campers have arrived with a mix of excitement, anticipation, and perhaps a few butterflies.

Then comes the question many parents ask: What is my child doing right now? And how are they adjusting?

The truth is that the first week of camp is one of the most important—and most magical—parts of the entire summer. While parents are wondering how their children are adjusting, camps are hard at work helping campers build friendships, establish routines, and discover that they are capable of more than they may have imagined.

Building a Community from Day One

My daughter always says the best part of first week is that she gets to “reconnect with old friends and make new friends”. The first few days of camp are carefully designed to help campers feel welcome and connected. Cabin meetings, icebreaker activities, team challenges, and shared meals all create opportunities for children to get to know one another.

Many campers arrive knowing few people, if any at all. By the end of the first week, they are already beginning to form friendships that may last well beyond the summer.

Finding Their Place

Every camper arrives with different interests, strengths, and comfort levels. Some jump right into activities, while others take a little longer to settle in.

The beauty of camp is that there is room for both. Whether it’s learning to paddle a canoe, participating in a theater production, trying archery for the first time, or simply laughing with cabin mates, campers begin discovering where they fit and what they enjoy.

These small successes add up quickly and help build confidence.

Learning Independence

One of the greatest gifts of overnight camp is the opportunity for children to practice independence in a supportive environment.

During the first week, campers learn how to manage their daily routines, keep track of their belongings, make choices, and solve minor challenges on their own. Camp counselors are there every step of the way, providing guidance while encouraging campers to develop confidence in their own abilities. When my son first went to camp 3 years ago, he was one of the youngest in the bunk. While he had been fairly independent before, now he was in an environment where almost every decision was his own. From food choices, to making his bed, what to read and who to interact with.

For many children, this may be the first time they realize just how capable they are.

Navigating the Ups and Downs

It’s perfectly normal for campers to experience a range of emotions during the first week. Excitement, nervousness, pride, homesickness, and joy can all appear—sometimes within the same day.

Experienced camp staff understand that adjustment takes time. Through encouragement, friendship, engaging activities, and supportive counselors, most campers quickly become immersed in camp life.

Parents may be surprised to learn that the moments that feel challenging at first often become important milestones in a child’s growth.

The Beginning of Something Special

By the end of the first week, camp begins to feel less like a new place and more like a community. Campers know their schedules, recognize familiar faces, and have stories to tell.

What started with a goodbye at the camp gate becomes the beginning of new friendships, new skills, and newfound confidence.

The first week of camp is more than an introduction. It is the foundation for everything that follows. It is where campers begin to discover who they are, what they can do, and how much they can grow when given the opportunity.

And that is the real magic of camp’s first week.

TIPS FOR MAKING SUMMER AIR TRAVEL EASIER

May 5, 2026 by Lois Leave a Comment

Summer is almost here! Many students are now preparing to travel to camp or an overseas program. Here is some information on how to minimize the stress that can accompany long distance travel. Although program directors.are a great resource for information, here are some ideas to discuss with the directors as well as some helpful hints.

PASSPORTS – Now is a good time to verify that the student’s passport is up to date. A student under the age of 16 must get a new passport or renew an existing passport in person.
PHONES – keep phones fully charged and travel with a charger. Please note that travelers are no longer allowed to bring high-powered portable chargers and power banks. Check TSA guidelines for more information.
AiR TAGS – Using air tags can be helpful in the instance that baggage is lost – it is also helpful to put a tracker in a backpack.
Discuss with the directors what happens in case of a flight delay or cancellation. This is especially important if there is a connecting flight
Teens under 18 typically do not need a government issued ID for domestic flights when accompanied by an adult. If they have TSA Pre Check they may need ID. Ask what identification is needed.
Download the airline app. This will make it easier to track updates.
Ask the director if students need a notarized letter of consent to travel.
Have emergency contacts easily accessible. This includes the names and numbers of program staff.
Some airports do not accept cash. It may be advisable to have a credit or debit card.
Don’t be afraid to ask the director about any logistics relating to travel. They are happy to help.

Travel can be stressful but when you are prepared it is much better. A great summer awaits!

A Day in the Life of a Camper

April 23, 2026 by Helene Abrams

For many parents considering sleepaway camp, one of the biggest questions is simple: What does my child actually do all day at camp? Of course every camp differs, but this might give you a general idea of what a day might look like for your child.

While every camp has its own traditions and schedule, most days follow a natural rhythm that balances activity, friendship, independence, and fun. From the moment campers wake up to the final goodnight in the cabin, each day is filled with experiences that help children grow, explore, and build lasting memories.

The day usually begins in the cabin as campers wake up with their bunkmates and counselors. There’s a sense of excitement as everyone gets ready—making beds, getting dressed, and heading together to breakfast. Meals are an important part of camp life, giving campers time to connect, share stories, and start the day together.

After breakfast, the activity periods begin—the heart of the camp day. Campers might rotate through swimming, tennis, arts and crafts, theater, ropes courses, nature, or team sports. Some camps allow choice, while others rotate so everyone can try something new. Each camp will differ. Camps should provide a sample schedule of what your childs’ day will look like.

One of the most special parts of camp is watching children discover interests they never knew they had. A camper who has never picked up a paddle might fall in love with kayaking, while another may gain confidence performing in a play or trying a new sport.

Midday brings lunch and a chance to recharge. Meals are social and full of energy, with campers sharing stories from the morning and looking forward to the afternoon. After lunch, many camps include a rest period or “quiet time,” giving campers a chance to read, write letters home, or simply relax.

The afternoon continues with more activities and opportunities to build skills and friendships. Counselors are always nearby—encouraging, guiding, and helping campers feel supported as they grow more confident and independent.

Before dinner, there is often free time or organized games. Some campers might play basketball, work on an art project, or simply spend time talking and laughing with friends. These unstructured moments often deepen friendships the most and are where children begin to feel a true sense of belonging.

Evenings at camp are especially memorable. After dinner, the entire camp often comes together for special programs like campfires, talent shows, themed games, or group competitions. These shared experiences create a strong sense of community and often become favorite memories.

As the day winds down, campers return to their cabins for showers and quiet time. Counselors may lead conversations, tell stories, or reflect on the day together. It’s during these moments that bonds grow stronger and campers begin to feel truly at home.

Lights out eventually arrives, and tired campers settle into their bunks after a full day. By morning, they are ready to wake up and do it all over again.

For parents, understanding this daily rhythm can be reassuring. Camp days are structured yet fun, active yet balanced. Most importantly, they are filled with opportunities for children to build independence, confidence, and lasting friendships—often in ways that surprise even them.

And while every camper’s experience is unique, one thing remains the same: at camp, every day brings a new adventure.

THE REAL VALUE OF SUMMER ACADEMIC PROGRAMS IS NOT COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

March 19, 2026 by Allison Neidoff Leave a Comment

Clients often ask whether participating in a summer program at a particular university will increase chances of admittance to that school. The short answer is: in most cases, it will not. Admissions experts would say, generally speaking, attending an academic summer program at a university does not give a student an admissions advantage. However, that does not undermine the unmistakable value of a campus-based summer program.

THE PRE-COLLEGE EXPERIENCE: 4 REASONS TO GET ON CAMPUS THIS SUMMER

Experience College Life Firsthand – Summer programs offer students the opportunity to live and learn on a college campus. Participants stay in dorms, eat in dining halls, attend classes in lecture halls or labs, use campus recreation facilities and hang out in the college town. This immersive experience makes the transition to college smoother. While many freshmen feel overwhelmed by a new environment, students who attend summer programs already understand college life and how to navigate it.

Thinking of Pursuing a Particular Major? Give it a Try – Careers including architecture, engineering, medicine, veterinary science and others require significant commitment and clear sense of direction. Spending a short period of time immersed in a subject can help confirm a student’s passion and commitment. This early exploration can ultimately save time, money, and frustration. The last thing any freshman wants is to begin a program only to discover the field they once thought they loved isn’t the right fit.

Explore Something New – Summer is the perfect time to step outside one’s comfort zone. Without the pressure of grades or demands of a full academic schedule, students can explore subjects purely out of curiosity. You never know what you may discover. A lifelong passion or future college major could be uncovered.

Build Essential “Soft” Life Skills – Beyond “hard” academic skills, students develop soft skills essential for success in college and careers. Independent campus living builds autonomy, responsibility, and confidence. Students learn time management, collaboration with peers and instructors from diverse backgrounds and to navigate new environments. These experiences build maturity and resilience necessary for future success.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Summer academic programs may not guarantee admission to a specific university. The value is far greater! The experience provides an invaluable transition between high school and college. Freshman students eagerly arrive on campus better prepared, more confident and excited about the path ahead.

With so many programs to choose from, set your student up for success. Reach out to a Tips advisor to help find the right overnight academic experience.

Summertime is the Perfect Time for Teens to Build Grit

February 28, 2026 by Debbie Smith Leave a Comment

Summertime is the Perfect Time for Teens to Build Grit

Time away from the structure and rigidity of classroom learning means free time to explore, take risks and push boundaries. Summer offers students not just free time, but time to build mental toughness. Ripe with exciting new experiences that build perseverance, resilience and grit, summer can be life changing.

Here’s 5 Tried and True Tips on Grit Building:

Practice an ‘Optimistic Mindset’

Grit or mental toughness is all about mindset. Embrace a ‘can-do’ mindset when doing something different where trying, failing and trying again is the whole point. In a lower pressure summer environment without grades or scores the stakes are minimalized. Teens feel freer to balance risk taking versus reward. A more optimistic mindset results in obstacles conquered and challenges overcome.

Get Outside Where Adventure Awaits

Pushing physical boundaries teaches teens they have what it takes to do things they may not have thought possible. Engaging in outdoor adventure or sports, if you fall you must get back up and try, try again. Resilience is built from persevering and confidence is gained. What’s more, spending time outdoors in some form of nature fosters a positive mindset while reducing stress and anxiety.

Take on Real Responsibility that Impacts Others

Teens need to know that what they do matters; not only to themselves but as part of a community. Being part of a summer community where a shared sense of give and take is encouraged and valued shifts a teen’s perspective from that of self-interest to contributor. Service opportunities, summer creative projects and shared living alongside others in a camp cabin, dorm or tent provide an ideal environment for teens to both support each other while also being dependent upon one another. Mental toughness often comes from knowing you have a responsibility to more than only oneself.

Let ‘Low-Stakes’ Struggles Play Out

In the face of life’s everyday little adversities, teens will need to resort to their problem-solving skills to handle issues. Presumably in a summer camp or program away from the watchful eye of teachers and parents, teens will hone critical thinking and sharpen social skills while navigating small frustrations. Trial and error resulting in conflict resolution has the power of teaching teens that they are capable of more than they thought.

Let Screen Time be Past Time

Summer sun should brighten your teen’s days while leaving the glare of tech behind. High quality, in person connectivity is crucial for social confidence, organizational skills, self- worth and yes, grit.

Set your teen up for success this summer. Reach out to a Tips Advisor to learn about overnight camps, trips and academic summer programs specifically designed to build these skills.

Stay tuned for part two in our blog series of purposeful summer programs for teens….

Time to make a summer plan!

January 15, 2026 by Allison Carneal Leave a Comment

January is the moment to make a plan. The holidays are behind us, routines are back, and while summer still feels far away, the days are already getting longer. Having overnight camps, trips, and teen programs on the calendar gives kids something concrete to look forward to and gives parents the relief of knowing it’s handled. A plan doesn’t make winter shorter, but it does make it easier.

This is also the most strategic time to commit. Many of the strongest overnight camps, trips, and teen programs are actively filling now, and session availability is widest in January. Waiting often means fewer choices, less flexibility with dates, and sometimes missing out altogether. Locking plans in early allows families to be intentional rather than reactive—and helps parents plan the rest of the summer, including vacations and special time together.

If summer planning is still on your to-do list, now is the time to move it to “done.” Choose a program that fits your child and your family calendar, commit, and move on. Reach out to Tips on Trips & Camps advisors for help directing you to the best overnight summer program for your child. We are all extremely busy right now working with families to help find the ideal camp, trip, service program or academic experience (sometime a few of the above to fit into the long summer!) – We look forward to working with you!

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