Camp Counselor Expectations and Responsibilities

Introduction

• Presenter: Chandler Metf, Training Manager at Cassm
• Role: Camp Counselor at Cassm
• Objective: Create a supportive environment for campers to feel safe, loved, and accepted.

Core Responsibilities

• Safety, Respect, and Upliftment: Ensure the well-being of all campers, respecting all identities.
• Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Commitment to a safe, inclusive environment for all, irrespective of background or identity.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Assigned to a unit (10-12 campers of the same age)
• Maintain a 3:1 camper to counselor ratio
• Enforce Cassm’s rules, policies, and health & safety protocols
• Facilitate friendships and lifelong connections
• Assist with camp activities as per chapter needs

Chain of Command

• Unit Leader: Counselor’s supervisor, liaison with admin and camp advisers
• Support Provided by Unit Leader:
  • Guidance and support
  • Enforcing policies and safety requirements
  • Creating camper behavior plans

Counselor Intentions

• Prioritize campers' experiences over personal camp experience.
• Address conflicts professionally; escalate issues to unit leader or camp adviser.

Skills for Excellent Counselors

Vigilance

• Stay alert to ensure camper safety

Rest

• Importance of breaks and adequate rest for counselors

Curiosity Over Judgment

• Understand behavior as communication
• Explain hidden curriculum (unspoken camp rules) to new campers

Relationship Building

• Know campers' names and use them frequently
• Facilitate friendships and community among campers

Establishing Systems

• Create routines and systems to help campers succeed
• Provide clear instructions for daily tasks
• Gamify mundane tasks to increase engagement

Typical Day at Camp

Morning Routine

• Peaceful and fun wake-up
• Ensure campers’ morning needs are met

Breakfast and Activities

• Manage picky eaters creatively
• Maintain high energy and engagement in activities
• Encourage participation but respect choice

Rest Time

• Essential for staff and campers
• Quiet activities or napping only

Swim Time

• Vigilance and supervision at the pool
• Ensure inclusion in games

Showers, Dinner, and Evening

• Systematic approach to shower time
• Monitor eating patterns at dinner
• Facilitate cabin chat and bedtime

Conclusion

• Embrace the learning experience to grow as a counselor
• Seek support when needed
• Encouragement to dive into the role enthusiastically