Summer is almost here – and that means it’s time for camp! Our 92NY Camps team has been working hard to put the finishing touches on their plans for this summer to ensure everyone has an awesome time. We asked Lauren Wexler, Director, Children’s Enrichment & Engagement, what families can do to ensure they get the most out of camp this year.
92NY: What is the 92NY Camps team most looking forward to this summer?
Lauren Wexler: It’s our favorite time of the year – the leadership team in our Rockland County Camps and Camp K’Ton Ton plan all year long for these summer weeks. We are most excited for our first day of camp – the energy, the excitement and the enthusiasm! Last week we launched our pilot program of K’Ton Ton in the Hamptons and the first day was so much fun!
92NY: What’s new at camps this year? What are you particularly excited about?
LW: At our campgrounds in Rockland County, we have new heated pools, a renovated changing area and a brand-new water slide. We think the water slide will be a great motivator for all campers to learn how to swim this summer. After almost 60 years, it was time for a “glow up” of our pool complex.
92NY: How can parents help their kids get the most out of camp this summer?
LW: I think the best things parents can do is to encourage their campers to try everything we have to offer. Sometimes campers tell us, “My mom said I don’t have to participate if I don’t want to.” In my opinion, you are doing your camper a disservice. We have so many activities that are new to kids that they may be fearful of trying – such as our zipline or climbing tower. Our staff are trained on how to encourage campers to participate and when parents give them the “out” they are less likely to take risks and try new things. Camp is all about leaving your comfort zone to try new things!
92NY: Do you have any advice for parents who are nervous about sending their child off to camp for the first time?
LW: I like to give two pieces of advice: 1) Call the camp and talk about what’s making you anxious – maybe it’s the bus ride or maybe it’s lunch and you’re worried that your child won’t eat enough. At 92NY Camps, we have heard most (if not all) concerns and usually have a solution or a policy already in place that will help ease concerns. 2) If you can help it, have a “less nervous” adult take your child to camp on the first day. On the walk to camp or the bus, the camper can feel your nervous energy which can make it more difficult to separate. In your morning routine for camp — especially on the first day — it’s important to set an excited-for-camp example for your child.
92NY: If kids are feeling anxious about camp, what are some things parents can do to help them?
LW: This is completely normal, even for the seasoned campers – the counselors may be different, and the group mates may be different. I think it’s important to focus on areas of camp they are most excited about — maybe review the camp calendar and talk about special event days or field trips. One of our favorite days in Camp K’Ton Ton is the Teddy Bear Picnic, where campers make a stuffed bear and then eat a picnic lunch with their friends and their bear! Focusing on what campers can look forward to can be helpful.
92NY: 92NY Camps has been running for well over 60 years, with many families returning year after year. What do you think is particularly special about our camps?
LW: Our camp community. I think our staff are the best in the business! Many of our staff were campers with us and are committed to helping make memories for a new generation of campers. It’s been so rewarding to watch my campers become counselors and even part of the leadership team over my 18 summers working at 92NY Camps.
92NY: Are any spots still available for campers at 92NY?
LW: We have limited spots available in our Rockland County Camps. Camp K’Ton Ton is now sold out.