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A Senior Camp Director’s Guide to the Big Transition:
Moving from Junior Camp to Senior Camp at Shibley

 

Hello, Shibley Families!

As Senior Camp Directors, one of the most exciting things we get to witness each year is the transition from Junior Camp to Senior Camp. For our rising 2nd graders, this transition marks a pivotal moment in their camp experience. It’s not just a move from one camp division to another – it’s a leap into more independence, new skills, and an opportunity for growth.

For our campers, Junior Camp ends with our rising 1st graders, and that’s when they step into Senior Camp. Here, they’ll embark on an even more dynamic summer filled with fresh challenges, adventures, and opportunities. It’s a milestone not just for the campers but for families as well, as it symbolizes growth and change. So, what can you do to help prepare your child for this exciting new chapter?

Here are a few tips and advice for parents, as well as ways you can support your camper through this big transition:

Things Are Bigger And Faster Paced

In Senior Camp, one of the first things campers will notice is how much bigger everything feels! From the fields where they’ll play sports like soccer, European handball, and flag football, to the group ratios of campers to counselors they’ll be part of, everything expands. Senior Camp is full of bigger spaces for bigger adventures! And the pace at which we move from activity to activity hastens.

Field space: The playing fields your child will use for games and activities are much larger than the ones they might be familiar with from Junior Camp. While this is exciting, it might also require more stamina and physical effort. Help your child get used to the idea of running more or spending more time outside. You can start prepping them with family walks or bike rides to build up endurance, so they’re ready for the bigger games and challenges.

Group Ratios: In Senior Camp, the group ratios of campers to counselors also change.  As your camper gets older and develops more life skills like changing from one bathing suit to another or tying their shoes, they develop independence and more self confidence. Of course counselors are always present to assist during these transition times of the day.

Senior Pools: Moving into Senior Camp means your child will now swim in a deeper pool and learn new skills, such as diving, while enhancing techniques and strokes they come in with. Please do not worry though, many senior campers don’t swim in deeper water….yet….which is why we are here!!!!

Why This Transition is So Special

This transition is such a monumental part of every child’s journey at Shibley Day Camp. It’s not just about moving to a new group – it’s about stepping into an experience where they can develop more confidence, grow their skill set, and discover new interests. Senior Campers are role models for the younger Junior Campers, which gives them a sense of pride and responsibility. Plus, it’s an opportunity to push themselves further, take on leadership roles, and participate in more advanced activities that truly spark their creativity and passion.

As Senior Camp Directors, we are here to support your child every step of the way. This is an exciting milestone, and with your guidance at home and our enthusiastic support at camp, your child is sure to have an unforgettable summer.

We look forward to seeing the bright smiles and boundless energy of our new Senior Campers this season! It’s going to be a summer full of growth, friendship, and fun.

-Randi & Vic

 

Shibley Day Camp quickly became a second home to me. The summer was filled with unforgettable memories, amazing friendships, and personal growth. I met amazing people that I talk to all year long. The sense of community and the impact at Shibley I had on campers made me realize how meaningful this experience truly is. I can’t wait to return and continue making a difference by creating even more incredible moments. Shibley Shibley!

-Jayden T 

I choose to work at Shibley Day Camp this summer because when I was a camper I felt included and loved.  I want other kids to have such great counselors like I did.

-Noemi W

I chose to work at Shibley Day Camp because when hearing others talk about their experience working here, it seemed like an awesome place to spend the summer. I’m constantly hearing about the fun vibes, great people, and tons of enriching activities that Shibley has to offer. I’ve always enjoyed working with kids and it looks as though this camp has created the perfect environment to help both staff and campers create some amazing bonds and memories over our summer break. The energy here seems super positive and I’m excited to be part of a team that’s all about having fun and making a difference.

–Jeannine V 

Shibley Day Camp is a great place to work because of it’s supportive and encouraging leadership, which helps create a positive and motivating work environment for all staff members. Shibley fosters a sense of community, where everyone works together as one big family. It is incredibly rewarding to see campers come out of their shell, build confidence, and develop new skills throughout the summer. The camp’s dedication to both staff and campers makes it a truly special place to be a part of. I am so grateful to have spent the past two summers with Shibley and I am so excited for Summer 2025!

~ Megan F

Shibley not only allows, but totally embraces my loud, boisterous “rah-rah” personality and my desire to engage everyone around me. I feel like this is a match made in heaven.  

-Joe W 

It is an honor to have been selected to work at Shibley Day Camp. As a new staff member I’ve chosen to work here to continue the legacy, values, and goals to enrich campers in ways they might not have never experienced before. Through encouragement and leadership, I’m most excited to embark on the journey of seeing campers building confidence, developing new skill sets, and creating long lasting friendships . I can’t wait for camp, see you all there!  

-Zaria G

I return to Shibley year after year because of the incredible sense of community. From the moment I step onto the campgrounds, I am welcomed by familiar, friendly faces, creating an environment that feels like home. It is also truly rewarding to reconnect with past campers and see how much they have grown over the years. The bonds I have formed with both colleagues and campers make this experience deeply meaningful, and I am grateful to be part of such a special community! 

-Mary H

This will be my first time working at Shibley, and I chose to work here because I know they have a good swimming program and I will be a lifeguard this year. I also would like to be able to teach the little campers who may not know how to swim yet to be able to swim. 

-William M

I chose to work at Shibley because I went to Shibley as a camper and loved all of my summers there. My counselors made my summers great, and I would love to do the same by making my campers’ summers their best one yet! My mom went to Shibley, my uncle went to Shibley, and both also worked at Shibley, so for me, one can say that it runs in the family!  

-Danny W

 I’m returning to Shibley for another year because of how welcoming the community is. Working at Shibley was my first job experience and I truly felt at home. Both the campers and staff make working here worthwhile! 

-Emily K 

 The best part of working at Shibley is seeing the world through a child’s eyes—full of wonder, laughter, and endless possibilities. Working at camp isn’t just a job—it’s an opportunity to make a difference one smile at a time.   Every messy craft, every silly song, every new activity attempted —these are the moments that make camp unforgettable. When a child learns a new skill, makes a new friend or discovers new possibilities, it enables them to take risks and develop confidence to be successful in all other areas in life. 

Working at Shibley has given me the opportunity to be a part of a family that helps every child learn and grow. My coworkers and I truly respect every camper, recognizing that each child is special and unique. We believe in creating an environment where every camper feels valued, heard, and celebrated for who they are. By fostering kindness, empathy, and inclusivity, we ensure that every child’s individuality shines. Most importantly, working at Shibley has connected me with incredible people—campers who inspire me with their curiosity and resilience, and coworkers who have become lifelong friends. In short, Shibley has given me confidence, perspective, and memories I’ll carry forever. 

-Ali M 

I felt like Shibley Day Camp was the perfect place to spend my summer; fresh air, good people, and of course, a day filled with fun! Summer can’t come fast enough!! 

-Lauryn G

I am so excited to be a Shibley staff member.  Having spent six amazing summers at Shibley Day Camp as a camper, I knew right away that I wanted to return as a counselor. My time at camp was unforgettable, filled with fun, friendships, and incredible memories that I’ll always cherish. The counselors I had made every summer special, and now I want to do the same for the next generation of campers. Shibley is more than just a camp, it’s a place where kids can truly be themselves and have the best summer ever.

-Ryan M

As a returning group leader, I am counting down the days till summer camp at Shibley because… 

1) I love the walk through junior to senior camp in the mornings. 

2) I love working with Shibley people .

3) I love the energy of the Shibley campers!!! 

-Leah L 

I’m choosing to work here at Shibley Day Camp because I get to work with amazing young kids, become a role model to these campers and to be somebody they can remember when they’re older. This can help prepare me to go into the educational field as a teacher. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity to be a counselor for summer 2025 and I’m really looking forward to it.

-Sophia D

I return to camp every summer to continue teaching the children arts and crafts. This is where they can gather together, sit and talk, be themselves. They can be creative and be proud to make something to bring home to show their parents. If I can bring smile to all the campers that love to come  and create with me…my heart stays full knowing that I’ve helped in making their summer so great!  

-Deb L 

The warm and family style environment is the kind of camp that I want my children to be a part of every summer. Both my camper and myself have made friends that make going to camp a fulfilling experience.

– Josh S 

I chose to come back to camp this summer because it made me so excited and to have something to look forward to. Helping the kids to have the best summer experience makes it so rewarding because I remember as a kid myself even though I didn’t go to camp I went to summer school and the teachers I had made sure to give me the best experience and left such a huge impact on me and that is what I want to do for these kids.

-Annabelle Y 

This will be my third summer at Shibley Day Camp, and I’m thrilled! The staff is incredibly welcoming and supportive and always ready to help when the summer heat and energetic kids get overwhelming. The strong sense of community makes it feel like a second home. I truly love coming to work here, the energy is always high and the kids’ excitement truly adds to the experience! 

-Irina P

I look forward to Summer 2025 at Shibley Day camp because I love the kids, the staff, and the activities!  This summer I especially look forward to running a new sports program in Junior Camp and sharing my love for sports with the campers!  I can’t wait for camp to be here!  

-Jess M

The reason I continue to come back to camp every summer is because it feels like home. Each summer I go back my love for camp only grows. The whole entire staff works together throughout the summer to ensure that the campers have the best summer ever. Seeing the smiles on the campers faces everyday is a very rewarding feeling.  

-Angela M

Day camp  = $$$$. Swim lessons = $$$. Swimsuits  = $$. Bathing Caps = $

Terrified children at the beginning of the summer who turn around at you before the Summer ends to say, “I can do it myself”  –  PRICELESS

-Rena L  

I’m returning to Shibley Day Camp in 2025 because it’s my second home and a place of pure magic. Every summer, I’m inspired by the joy, friendships, and memories that are made here. Watching my kids grow and shine at Shibley is a gift, and I’m proud to be part of a community that feels like family and turns every day into an adventure.

-Liz H

Shibley is my Happy Place for the last  30 summers. I always say it’s like being in Disney all summer long. I love working with my Shibley family and the happy children and of course hula hooping for all to watch:)

-Grace M

Meet our 2025 Head Nurse, Emily Baker, whose family is joining us for their third summer at Shibley. This is a blog she wrote after her first summer at camp:

There is something beautiful in watching children in an environment where they can grow and develop, all while navigating and exploring the fundamental simplicities of life.

I’ve spent the majority of my career as a Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurse and unfortunately, I have seen the harsh realities of life firsthand, realities that no child should have to ever be part of or witness.  It is this experience as a nurse that helped me to realize that life is truly precious and is a gift that should be lived to the fullest, even when you are young.

This past summer I was blessed with the opportunity to be one of the camp nurses for Shibley Day Camp and as an added bonus my three children would get to experience camp for the first time.  For full disclosure, you should know that my husband and I grew up in Iowa and there certainly were not any camps for us to attend, the concept of camp was foreign but incredibly intriguing.  Scenes from The Parent Trap kept playing in my head throughout Winter and Spring in anticipation of what we were getting into.

I knew from the moment that our family first toured the Shibley grounds that the environment simply felt right, it felt like home, and it felt like we were walking into a family.   Even with that positive first experience, there were quite a few first-day jitters and I can confidently say that my children and I had no idea what we were walking into.

Day 1 quickly turned into day 39, and our hearts were forever changed.  As a Pediatric Nurse, I love taking care of children, and for the first time in my career, I was given the opportunity to take care of healthy children.  As the days of summer went by and the Band-Aids, Gatorade, and ice packs were handed out, I was reminded of how important it is for children to be in environments where they can grow as individuals through exploring new activities, develop friendships, and be challenged in ways they are not used to, all in a safe, family-friendly, and nurturing environment.

Witnessing the children of Shibley Day Camp grow this summer was truly a blessing, however, witnessing how Shibley Day Camp impacted my children this summer was truly remarkable.  All three of my children went into summer being very reserved and afraid to speak up for themselves and they walked out of Shibley as three confident and very independent children with memories that will last a lifetime.

As both a Camp Nurse and a parent, I can wholeheartedly say that Shibley Day Camp provides a magical and nurturing environment that truly promotes personal growth, lifelong friendships, and memories to last a lifetime.  In our home, our hearts will be longing for next summer.

“You want me to put my 5 year old on a bus from the city to Long Island every day this summer, are you crazy?” 

We often hear these words or see the wheels spinning in parents’ heads when we talk about campers coming to Shibley Day Camp from Manhattan, Brooklyn & Queens. In fact, a large percentage of our campers do come from the east side of Manhattan in addition to areas in Queens like Long Island City and Forest Hills; and parts of Brooklyn including Park Slope and Williamsburg. 

So why do parents send their children in droves from the city every day to day camps on Long Island? We asked a mix of first time Shibley families and veterans and here were some of their answers: 

“I feel so grateful to have found Shibley for my daughter.  I’m so glad that I can give her the perfect summer camp for a city kid; one where she is outdoors in the sunshine, swimming in the pool  and running in the grass every day. She comes home exhausted with dirty knees and crazy hair.  Most importantly, she comes home happy.” – Mrs. Grillo 

“Sending our children out of the city for summer camp was the best decision we could have made.  We love our city living most of the year, but the amazing landscape at Shibley provides a true camp experience and the ability to be outdoors for activities as much as possible – a luxury not local camp could provide.  While the bus ride to and from was my greatest hesitation, this was actually one of their daily highlights. They made friends outside of their groups and age bracket which made them feel even more connected to the Shibley community.  I know it was a good thing when I offered to pick them up from camp one day and they both quickly responded ‘NOOOO!’”– Mrs. De Angelis

“As much as we love the city, you can’t beat the variety, offerings, and outdoor facilities that a suburban day camp has to offer. The minute my active little city-bird saw Shibley, he asked if he could go there over the summer. We’re confident that it’s the right choice for us.” – Mrs Goldenberg 

“We knew it was time to give Marco a taste of suburban life when he saw the Camp Shibley promotional video and said “look, it’s in the jungle!”  There’s more to life than steaming hot sidewalks and fenced-in city parks. We wanted to give him the opportunity to spend his summers running around in fresh air and green grass, and swimming in a beautiful outdoor pool.”-Mrs. Zambetti

“…imagine not hearing the shrill of car horns and emergency vehicles for days on end.  Instead, imagine the magical sound of kids having fun in a truly natural setting.  My daughter loves escaping the noise of the city and enjoying full days filled with the sounds of nature…” – Mr. McLaughlin 

“Sending our daughter to Shibley from LIC was one of the best decisions we have ever made! Our daughter gets the opportunity to be active in the outdoors on a beautiful large suburban property while participating in so many activities including; swimming, ropes course, playgrounds, sports, color war…the list is endless. Shibley provides convenient busing, which is amazing especially for working parents. She is currently counting down the days until she goes back to camp!” – Mrs. Fritz 

“This will be my daughter’s second summer at Shibley Day Camp, and the excitement in our home is at a whole new level! ‘When is camp starting mom?’ ‘How many more days again?’ Living in Manhattan is an amazing experience for my daughter and our family, but like every New Yorker and especially my child who is born in and being raised in NYC, you need a break every once in a while.  When my daughter was old enough she went to Shibley and upon her return from camp that afternoon her happiness and exhaustion was evident. The activities were beyond her imagination and the staff and counselors were just amazing… even the bus ride home was an exciting adventure for her filled with fun and appropriate songs and games. City kids have benefits like no other children, but you should not pass up an opportunity to send them to a camp outside the hustle and bustle of the jungle of Manhattan. And make sure it’s a place like Shibley that your child will love just as much as their own home.” – Mrs. Sticco 

“I love sending my daughter to camp in the suburbs for so many reasons.  First and foremost is getting her to spend time outside surrounded by large lawns of green grass and giant shady trees. She learns about nature and escapes the concrete jungle.  Also, I love that there are various pools for swim instruction dedicated to each age level. My daughter finally learned to put her head under water and started to swim last year and now she runs and jumps into the water with no fear. This year she will work to pass the deep water test. Let’s not forget about the bus! I feel like my daughter grew up on that bus, gained independence, developed patience and made great friendships with boys and girls of different ages.  Lastly but equally important are all the outstanding activities that take place outside like carnival, Olympics, relay races, bungee .. and so much more.. We love Shibley Day Camp!” – Mrs. Fastenberg 

“The environment is such a departure from more urban settings. It’s like a having a relative with a country house who lets your kids go run, swim and play all day (under adult supervision). Their summer days don’t crawl by looking for things to do. Every day is spent in a beautiful wooded sanctuary that gives my children the feel of a upstate sleep-away camp. But I get the added bonus of seeing them at the end of every day, exhausted and relaxed as they regale me with the stories of their adventures. Without a haven like Shibley, my kids would probably never lay back on the grass and watch the clouds on a beautiful summer day like they were in their own backyard. They don’t have to compete with neighborhood kids for a hot swing on a blacktop playground. They don’t have to wonder how they will fill their hot summer days in a concrete jungle. Instead, all four of my children learned to swim from Red Cross certified instructors, they climbed rock walls, played softball, hockey, basketball and gaga….Over the many years I have realized it is a different kind of friendship that forms over the summers, when you only see each other for a few months. Those relationships are special. They will have these camp friends for a lifetime.“ – Mrs. Haberstumpf

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves!

LINK TO DONATE AT BOTTOM

How do you help a family that has lost everything?

There are countless numbers of people that have lost their homes, belongings and sense of stability through the horrific California fires. How do you start from scratch and what are the things that can bring comfort to those affected? Many of the families not only lost their homes but also the place that their children spend the majority of their days, school. The thought of having to rebuild your entire existence is massively overwhelming. But to also have to provide activities for your children and make sure that they are still stimulated, nourished, and emotionally taken care of during this time is next to impossible.

Shibley Day Camp and the CampGroup family of camps have chosen to pair up with an organization called Project Camp (@projectcampla) that sets up pop-up day camps for impacted children while their homes and schools are being rebuilt. At these camps, children have fun with other children, they are distracted from what’s going on at home and they have the emotional support of trained staff if they need to speak with someone.

About Project Camp:

“We are former summer camp directors and administrators, experienced designers, and trauma-specialists who believe in the transformative power of the camp experience. Every staffer and volunteer is fully background checked and trained in childhood trauma identification and mitigation tactics before they ever interact with a camper.  Project Camp strives to serve every evacuated child in need.  We are in no way religiously or politically affiliated and we accept children of all backgrounds, socioeconomics, abilities, and needs from ages 6-16.  As far as we know, there are no other organizations that provide this type of relief for children.”

While campers are having fun at camp, their parents enjoy free childcare, time  and space to assess the state of their home and some peace of mind as they  make big decisions about moving forward.

Fundraising is a priority for Project Camp. Please consider donating to Project Camp yourself and/or circulating the link to your network. Here is a link to the donation page: https://projectcamp.co/donate.

Thank you!

The winter season is all about making memories and cherishing relationships near or far. At Shibley Day Camp, we believe in the power of connection and this is why I feel it’s important to encourage families and friends to stay in touch with loved ones, even if they aren’t local. 

Whether it’s sharing a laugh with friends or updating family members on your latest adventures or accomplishments, maintaining those bonds is essential to personal growth and building lasting friendships.

Here are a few simple and fun ideas to stay connected and spread smiles and cheer this season!

1. Schedule a Virtual Hangout. In today’s technological world it’s easier than ever to connect with friends and family via Zoom, FaceTime, or even a phone call. Schedule a time to share stories, play a game, or a simple check in over the phone! It’s the perfect way to stay connected, no matter the distance.

2. Send a Handwritten Letter. For something more personal, why not go back to basics with a handwritten letter or for little ones draw a picture! I believe there’s something special about receiving a physical note in the mail that can brighten anyone’s day.3. Creating Memories. Even if you’re miles apart, you can still create memories together. Watching a movie at the same time or even cooking a favorite recipe over FT or Zoom, then sitting and enjoying that meal together are simple ways to stay connected!

4. Lastly and my favorite, make a playlist with your loved one’s. Collect songs that both of you enjoy and while over FT or Zoom have a dance party!

At Shibley Day Camp, our GREEN values of Generosity, Respect, Empathy, Endurance and Nurture guide’s everything we do. These principles can extend into how we interact with others all winter long.

Let’s spread kindness, show respect, and nurture those relationships that matter most!

I wish everyone a joyful and connected winter season! Please share with us your pictures on how you choose to stay connected!

Shibley Shibley!

Melissa