Month: November 2022

I’m thankful each time I return to Shibley because the timeless, screenless, active summers are restorative to my mind, body, and soul. It’s a much-needed reset in today’s world! – Jared H

I am thankful for the lifelong friendships that I have been able to create at Shibley while at the same time helping campers make new discoveries about themselves through trying new activities and having fun. – Matthew C (Boomer)

I am thankful to return to Shibley next summer because Shibley is an amazing environment full of fun and positive experiences. The number one reason I want to return to Shibley is because I really enjoyed giving kids the best summer of their lives. – 2022 Staff Member

I’m thankful for the kinship I have found at Shibley – Gladys L

I am so thankful for tons of things in life, but most of all, thankful to return to Shibley Summer Day Camp. Why? Because I’ll be reunited with lots of you who I met. – Erick V

I am thankful for all our beautiful Shibley children! You guys are the reason why I am returning to Shibley next summer and make more wonderful memories. – Esther C

Enjoying every camp day alongside the campers brings me great energy and joy! I am so thankful to be able to play in the sun with the campers from the minute the camp day starts until the last bus leaves the Shibley grounds. – Jon K

I’m thankful for everyone who has made me feel welcome to Shibley. And I’m thankful for the kids who have made working there so rewarding.  – Lara M

I am so thankful for having the opportunity to work with such wonderful people.  The summer cannot come fast enough. – Kyla V

💚Shibley has been a forever happy place for myself and my children since day one. I am thankful for working with an amazing and supportive staff that have and will be my friends for many summers to come. 💚 – Deb L

The reason I want to return to Shibley next summer is because of the amazing staff and campers I got to spend every day with. Last year was my first summer at Shibley so I was so nervous to be there at first, but after getting to meet such a welcoming staff and group of campers, I had an incredible summer, and I attribute that to all of those I was surrounded by. – Nico M

I am thankful to return to Shibley because it is such a positive work environment.  The #1 reason I want to return to Shibley is because I love working with the children, and also love working with my amazing coworkers. I am looking forward to spending another summer working with Shibley. – 2022 Staff Member

I am thankful to have found a family at Shibley Day Camp and I look forward to returning to them next summer to make more memories, both with campers and coworkers, that will last a lifetime. – Arabella N

I am so thankful for my Shibley family
Love being at Shibley Day Camp the smiles and laughter from the children and happy music when walking around camp makes me feel like I am in Disney all summer long Happy Thanksgiving 🦃 to all! Shibley Shibley – Grace M

I am thankful to return to Shibley because I was able to meet new people and create memories with them. The one reason I would want to return would be I can meet more people and create more bonds with children and coworkers. – Vivian M

I am Thankful to return to Shibley for the Summer of 2023! My #1 reason I want to return to Shibley is to see the Smiling Faces of the many Shibley campers & staff.  This includes my Bungee Crew. I love seeing the Shibley campers having FUN on Bungee- asking to go to “the Top Floor” or doing multiple flips or even getting the courage to do their first flip ever. This will be our 3rd Summer at Shibley. We can’t wait for Summer 2023. Shibley Shibley – Marisa M

I am so thankful to return to Shibley next summer because that means I get to meet new campers and make memories again!  The Shibley campers make the summer so enjoyable!! – Jess C

At my wedding, my father got up with my mother by his side, to give a speech. My father is a quiet man but when he has something to say it’s usually profound and this was no exception. He told my husband and I that the most important thing in a marriage is food. He explained further. What he meant by this is that most of the time that you will spend with your spouse (and your future children) is at the dinner table. This is where you will come together at the end of each day to not only eat, but reconnect and talk about the day’s events, the good, the bad and what’s to come.

It’s nice to come back together at the end of a crazy day and sit around the table. This is the time to catch up, touch base and see how everyone is doing. It gives the members of your family an opportunity to open up in a safe space. Even if the conversation is minimal, at least everyone knows that you are there to listen if they need it. This is also a space and time we can show our kids how important it is to have “face time”…not to be confused with “FaceTime” on the iPhone. It shows them the art of conversation and how to interact with people and not just a screen. I think back to my childhood and many of my favorite memories took place around the dinner table.

I have tried to follow my father’s advice. My husband and I do the best we can to sit down with our kids for dinner every night. Does this always happen? No, definitely not. School days are so hectic and everyone’s schedules are so different. Homework needs to be finished. Sports practices don’t end until late or someone has a late meeting. On many nights no one’s schedules line up and everyone is having dinner on the go. Or maybe we are going out with friends (which is also important for our own sanity, lol). But, when possible, it’s good to get the entire household together for a meal. Doing it just a few times a week can make all the difference.

And then comes the dreaded question…WHAT’S FOR DINNER??? This is probably the most asked question in my house. My children are barely finished with breakfast, and they already want to know what they are having for dinner. I find it hard, especially in the start of the school year, to come up with quick and easy meals to please the entire family. In the past I have tried to reinvent the wheel, thinking that I need to make a complicated, nutrition packed dinner that involves lots of chopping, cutting, mixing, and cooking. Who has time for all of that? (Certainly not me!) And I’m no Julia Child.

I’ve changed my ways and realized that keeping it simple is the way to go. The bottom line is that everyone needs to eat, and we need to try and be around the dinner table together.  I have a few recipes that I stick to every week. They are simple, fast and some I can make ahead of time. It might not always be the most glamorous meal but if I can make something (or half make something) that will satisfy everyone, then I feel good. And of course, there is always take out!

Quick weekly meal ideas:

• Spaghetti with meat sauce, garlic bread (store bought from the freezer aisle)
• Tacos!! Every Tuesday!!
• Breakfast for dinner
• Grilled chicken with rice and broccoli

And of course, if all else fails, there’s no shame in ordering in!! Enjoy!

We are lucky to be affiliated with some of the BEST sleepaway camps around! See below or take a look at CampGroup.com. We have co-ed, single gender, full season, half season, etc.  We also offer special discounts for the first summer at a CampGroup camp based on how long you have been at Shibley: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.

Camp Akeela – Thetford Center, Vermont

Camp Akeela is a co-ed, overnight camp in Vermont where “quirky” kids thrive! Within a well-rounded and traditional camp program, we focus on the social growth of campers, many of whom have been diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome or a similar ASD profile. Akeela is an intentional community that values and celebrates each child and staff member. Campers make life-long friends, develop self-confidence, achieve independence, and leave camp with lasting memories filled with fun and spirit.

866-680-4744

info@campakeela.com

campakeela.com

Camp Cobbossee for Boys – Monmouth, Maine

Cobbosseee is the nation’s premiere four-week boys sports-and-adventure camp. Nestled on the shores of gorgeous Lake Cobbossee, Cobbosseee is one of the oldest continuously-running camps in the nation. Cobbossee is a place where sports and competition occupy a central facet of our summer program – but never at the expense of grace, class, or brotherhood. We know that competition and a healthy social culture are not mutually exclusive. Our boys form deep, lasting connections with each other, their counselors, and the veteran leadership at Cobbossee. Beyond sports, Cobbossee offers a rich program on our breathtaking waterfront, as well as a fully-developed adventure program in Maine’s forests, rivers, oceans, and mountains.

207-933-3503

info@cobbossee.com

www.campcobbossee.com

Camp Danbee – Hinsdale, Massachusetts

Camp Danbee offers girls both a full season and partial (Danbee in 4 or Danbee in 3) enrollment option. Spirit and instruction best describes our program. Small bunk ratios of 8 campers to 3 staff members insures quality supervision. 12 tennis courts, 2 heated pools, state of the art Gymnastics facility, along with a comprehensive arts and dance program highlight some of the many offerings. Located on Lake Ashmere in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains of Western Massachusetts, Danbee is a traditional and very spirited summer for girls from 7 to 15 years old.

Danbee’s low (1:3) counselor/camper ratio. Our emphasis on skill development and participation over competition gives girls a chance to succeed, to build self-confidence, and to grow at their own pace. Promoting resilience and empowering our girls since 1950.

973-402-0606

annie@campdanbee.com

www.campdanbee.com

Greenwoods Camp for Boys – Decatur, Michigan

More than a sports camp, Greenwoods is a community focused on inclusion and character development. Whether you are a competitive athlete, a musician, or love water sports … there is a place for you at Greenwoods. We teach sportsmanship on the field and teamwork in the bunks. Our elective program allows campers to choose a competitive or non-competitive schedule.  A competitive camper may choose to participate in sports leagues and tournament play with our highly skilled coaches, satisfying even the most competitive spirit. A less competitive campers may choose to participate in sports instruction to improve his skills, or elect not to participate in team sports.

Greenwoods encourages boys to gain a sense of independence, but that does not mean they are doing it on their own. Our counselors, coaches and directors support and encourage boys every step of the way. The spirit of our brotherhood sets the stage for boys to explore and discover who they are. Campers create their own activity schedules, with input from their parents, to tailor an experience that meets their interests and passions.

269-423-3091

info@lwcgwc.com

www.lwcgwc.com

Camp Kippewa – Monmouth, Maine

No two girls are alike, why should their summers be?

Camp Kippewa is a unique all-girls overnight camp for ages 7 to 15.  Girls select from a wide array of activities to create their own weekly schedule. The caring, nurturing ambiance at Camp Kippewa sets a girl at ease with who she is, giving her the confidence to make friends easily and feel comfortable about trying challenging new activities.

The Arts program offers over 20 disciplines of Fine Arts & Crafts and Dance & Theater. Onsite horseback riding facilities host an unbeatable Equestrian program where campers can ride daily. Lake Cobbosseecontee is the perfect setting for top-notch Water Sports instruction in waterskiing, sailing, windsurfing, canoeing and kayaking.  Our program also offers a variety of Land Sports including our popular tennis program, gymnastics, soccer, softball, lacrosse and more. Campers enjoy the natural setting of Maine with ocean sailing trips, beach days, wilderness hikes and canoe trips.

Ask about our Equestrian Academy!

207-933-2993

info@kippewa.com

www.kippewa.com

Camp Kippewa Point – Monmouth, Maine

Camp Kippewa Point is the two-week camp experience for girls ages 6-13! Our warm and nurturing environment offers girls a classic camp experience that has a set beginning, middle and end. Our hybrid approach to scheduling allows Kippewa Point campers to explore everything we have to offer while also giving them the chance to spend extra time doing the activities they are excited to explore.

Hiking and camping opportunities, exciting Special Events, and an all-camp trip to the beach round out the two weeks to make sure our campers experience the beauty of Maine during their time at camp!
At Kippewa Point, we intentionally work to develop connections between our campers. We know that deep and meaningful relationships with camp friends and camp staff help to foster growth, confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging. At the end of their two-weeks, we hope that our girls have gained confidence, become more independent, feel proud of their accomplishments, and feel like the Point is their second family!

207-933-2993

jackie@kippewa.com

www.kippewapoint.com

Lake of the Woods for Girls – Decatur, Michigan

We’re more than just a camp … we’re an intentional community focused on guiding girls and teens on how to become their best selves. We provide an encouraging atmosphere where campers are challenged to take healthy risks and form authentic relationships with peers and counselors. Each camper is respected as an important member of our community, and together, we celebrate differences and achievements.

Campers create their own activity schedules, with parent input, to tailor an experience that fuels their interests and ignites their passions. Girls return home from Lake of the Woods confident of who they are and what they can accomplish.

269-423-3091

info@lwcgwc.com

www.lwcgwc.com

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac for Boys – Lenox, Massachusetts

The spirit of Camp Mah-Kee-Nac lies in the commitment to our community. Campers and staff feel supported, challenged, and encouraged to participate in an action-packed day of sports, outdoor adventure, waterfront, media and the arts. Through these activities and our elective-based program, campers build confidence by experiencing success. Our boys discover the power of their true selves and the individual role they play as part of the greater community. To us, community over everything is what makes Mah-Kee-Nac extraordinary.

Camp Mah-Kee-Nac is located in beautiful Lenox, Ma and offers 7, 4, and 3 week sessions. For boys 5th grade and below, MKN also offers a one-week trial session.  Give us a shout if you’d like to learn more.

413-863-6561

rachel@campmkn.com

www.campmkn.com

Camp Walt Whitman – Piermont, New Hampshire

We feel fortunate to attract particularly nice kids and down-to-earth families. We attribute this to the fact that we share a common goal to raise great kids who value community, giving back to others, being a good person and being a good friend. Our campers recognize that there’s a bigger world out there than their own, and they develop a real sense of how to positively contribute to it.

This camp has been in our family since 1948, when the Soloway brothers, Arnie and Chick, established a sleepaway camp for boys and girls that would provide a warm and caring atmosphere, stretch campers to overcome challenges, and teach children how to reach their full potential as individuals while contributing to a larger community.

Today, Camp Walt Whitman is run by the Soloway Brothers’ great-nephew, Jed Dorfman, and his wife Carolyn Dorfman. All this time, we’ve held true to the lofty goals Arnie and Chick laid out 70 years ago.

1-800-657-8282

cww@campwalt.com

www.campwalt.com

Camp Watitoh – Becket, Massachusetts

Camp Watitoh is a coed camp located in the Berkshire mountains, 3 hours from NYC and 2 hours from Boston. Our campers choose Watitoh to be part of something more than a camp, to be part of a family. A hidden gem with just over 220 campers and 100 staff, it is a place where everyone knows each other and is living the dream on Center Lake as one community. We offer land sports, creative arts, adventure, watersports, and so much more on a beautiful lakefront property.

Traditions, evening activities, camp songs, and forever friendships are deeply ingrained in the reason campers return year-after-year to their summer home. We offer an active intercamp tournament schedule along with the opportunity to explore the many special attractions of the Berkshires like Tanglewood, Jacobs Pillow, the Basketball Hall of Fame, and more…The families who are attracted to Watitoh immediately sense the down-to-earth feel and often comment on Watitoh being more of a “throw-back” which connects camp-going parents to their own camper years.

413-623-8951

info@campwatitoh.com

www.campwatitoh.com

Camp Wicosuta – Hebron, New Hampshire

Camp Wicosuta is girls’ sleep-away camp in Hebron New Hampshire.  We offer a four-week traditional summer camp experience for campers completing grades 1-9.  In addition, we offer a Two Week Explorer Program for younger campers.

At Wicosuta our goal is for every girl to walk away feeling confident in herself and competent in her abilities.  She will develop independence and new social athletic and artistic skills while making friends and having the time of her life!  We teach these lessons in a physically and emotionally safe community where our campers are challenged to move past their self-set limits.  These 3 C’s (Confidence, Competence and Community) are the foundation of Camp Wicosuta.

1-800-846-9426

info@campwicosuta.com

www.campwicosuta.com

Camp Winaukee – Moultonboro, New Hampshire

800-487-9157

info@winaukee.com

www.winaukee.com

Camp Winadu – Pittsfield, Massachusetts

Camp Winadu is an all boys camp located in the Berkshire Region of Massachusetts, approximetely 2.5 hours from both New York City and Boston.

Winadu stands alone in that families and campers do not need to make a choice between a well round traditional camp and great instruction from Sports to Crafts to Music to Outdoor Adventure and Watersports.   We like to say its not an either/or.  Amongst its 40 plus activities, Camp Winadu is one of the only traditional summer camps offering a full Ice Hockey program led by the Head Coach of Williams College plus a Golf Program on-site and off-site led by an on-site Teaching Pro.

We offer three unique ways to visit and Experience Winadu this Summer:  No Stop Tour @ Camp, Pop Up Tour – where we come to you and September Open House dates @ Camp.   Contact us to learn more about these options:

914-437-7200

alissa@campwinadu.com

www.campwinadu.com