The summer is upon us! Join us as we debrief the best Day Camp Pod Tid-Bits from the past eight months.

Season 6 of the Day Camp Pod is winding down as we laser-focus on the daunting job before us. This episode, Sam & I debrief our ACA trip to Washington D.C. and then touch upon this season’s episodes with some important follow-ups.

We’re so fortunate to be able to speak with so many smart, awesome people, and share valuable wisdom and best practices with the day camp community - So, kick back and enjoy the pod, as we’ll touch most of this season’s episodes - which you want to then go back and re-listen to, or listen for the first time if you haven’t already. THIS, IS THE DAY CAMP POD!

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YOUR HOSTS:

• Andy Pritikin, Owner/Director - Liberty Lake Day Camp

• Sam Thompson, Recreation Supervisor - Crystal Lake Park District

Episode Summary:

• Managing Large Camp Staff Teams:

  Discussed challenges and strategies for managing large staff teams, emphasizing valuable roles, positive work culture, and timely feedback.

• Highlighted the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of all staff members.

• Camp Experiences and Workforce Legislation:

  • Shared experiences meeting with legislators to discuss new legislation granting camp professionals access to national background checks.

  • Addressed concerns about the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities Act and its impact on camps as youth development groups.

• Podcast Highlights and Team Appreciation:

  • Reviewed popular podcast episodes and praised contributors, including Jeff, Jack, and Justin, for sparking valuable conversations.

  • Discussed Michael Brandwein's episode "Grout is Great" and the importance of 'in-between time' at day camps.

• Camper Recruitment, Retention, and Parent Involvement:

  • Recommended a book on camper recruitment and retention by Travis Alison and Joanna Warren Smith.

  • Emphasized the importance of clear communication and setting expectations for parents involved in camp experiences.

• Staffing Strategies and Management:

  • Discussed leadership transitions, cross-training staff, and managing staff with additional needs at camp.

  • Highlighted the importance of not overburdening staff and maximizing the use of summer staff.

Sponsors:

Thanks to our wonderful sponsors who help make this Go Camp Pro podcast possible:

• AMSkier Insurance  -  https://www.amskier.com/

• Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS) -  https://crs4rec.com/

  • CRS - Disc Golf: https://crs4rec.com/disc-golf/

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