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My Full Circle Moment

For over 30 years, I’ve had the privilege of working at Shibley Day Camp that has been a significant part of my life. It’s a place where kids grow, learn, and make memories, and for me, it’s been a journey of growth, too. Over the years, I’ve worn many hats—from being a sports specialist to leading groups, and now, as the Associate Director, my role has evolved in ways I never could’ve imagined. But one thing has always stayed the same: the joy of getting to know the campers and their families.

Being a group leader was always one of the most rewarding parts of my job. It wasn’t just about overseeing activities or making sure everything ran smoothly—it was about building relationships. Watching the campers grow over the course of a summer, seeing them face challenges, discover new interests, and form friendships, was something truly special. As a group leader, I had the privilege of knowing each child on a personal level, understanding their strengths and quirks, and guiding them through the ups and downs of camp life.

But perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects was seeing the families that came through the camp year after year. It wasn’t just the kids who were growing—our entire camp family was evolving, and I had the pleasure of getting to know these families in such a meaningful way.

Now, as the Associate Director, my role has shifted. I’m no longer in the trenches with the kids every day (I do jump in from time to time-I just can’t help it!!!), but I’m still very much connected to the heart of the camp. I get to hire the incredible staff who will create the next generation of memories for our campers. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly. The camp culture is so important, and ensuring that the staff is not only qualified but also shares the same passion for the camp experience is key.

One of the most amazing parts of this phase of my career is that I’m now hiring some of the very same kids I watched grow up at camp. These campers, who were once 6 years old, are now old enough to be staff members themselves. As a matter of fact, one of my campers from years ago came back to camp this summer as a counselor.  She’s not only a skilled and compassionate counselor, but also a counselor to my 3 year old granddaughter! Watching this beautiful, full circle connection unfold has truly been an emotional experience.

It’s a surreal experience to see these once campers, who held my hand on their first day of camp become counselors who are confident young adults now ready to take on leadership roles. These young adults bring a unique perspective to the table. They understand the camp experience from the inside out, and they bring with them a passion and enthusiasm that’s contagious. It’s heartwarming to know that their experiences here shaped them into the people they are today, and now they’re ready to give back to the next generation of campers.

It’s also a reminder of how much the camp means to the families and the community. To see former campers return as staff members is proof that the camp is more than just a summer job. It’s a place that leaves a lasting impression and creates a sense of belonging that lasts long after the summer ends.

Working at Shibley for over three decades has been more than a job—it’s been a journey. From being a sports specialist to group leader to now having the honor of hiring the next generation of staff, I am constantly reminded of the impact that summer camp has on young lives. And as I watch my former campers become the leaders of tomorrow, I feel incredibly fortunate to have been a part of their journey from the very beginning. It’s truly a full circle moment, and one that fills me with pride and gratitude every single day.

Originally posted April 2023

Children who spend time at camp each summer show self-confidence, resilience and independence out in the “real world”. Within the camp environment, children are willing to take risks, which is what leads to them developing these critical skills.

Why/how does this happen?

• Camp creates an environment where children feel safe, loved and supported.

• We switch from “Try this, do that!” to “Let’s all try this together!”

  • Positive peer pressure under the supervision of well-trained staff = children trying new things without even thinking about it.

• We provide language for a child to say, “I’m not comfortable with or ready for that yet.”

  • Our staff models this language and the empathy that must be shown when someone decides they aren’t quite ready to climb the wall or go down the zip line.

• We congratulate those who accomplish their goals AND those who show resilience in trying to reach a goal, even if they haven’t quite gotten there yet.

• In other environments children have often decided the answer is NO before they hear the question.

  • At camp they are excited to have new opportunities presented from different voices.

• Children observe other children overcome fears right before their eyes and see that this transformation is possible.

• Camp is focused on the social, emotional & physical growth of a child; this is what we care about above all.

• Camp provides intentional but also natural opportunities for children to practice and build these skills.

What does it look like in the “real world”?

• A child volunteers to play goalie or speaks up to say they DON’T want to be goalie when asked, instead of just agreeing to avoid conflict.

• A child who is usually very quiet in class decides to run for a student government position.

• A child who wouldn’t go near the pool before summer began is at grandma’s house pulling their parent’s hand towards the pool so they can be the first one in.

• A child visits an amusement park and surprises their parent by being comfortable trying a scary ride.

• A child who used to shy away from character appearances at parties/theme parks now runs to the character to give a high five or is at least willing to stay in the same room as the character.

• A child comes home from the first day of school talking about making friends for the first time on the first day.

• A child enters a “drop off” birthday party or event with no hesitation for the first time.

These are just a few of the examples reported back to camp leadership from year to year. What has your child done out in the “real world” that was influenced by building self confidence, independence and resilience at camp?

Looking for information about the Shibley Day Camp Sleepaway Week at Club Getaway – CLICK HERE

Finding the right sleepaway camp can feel like navigating a massive, tempting menu—so many delicious options! To help you move from overwhelmed to informed, here is a guide to the key questions you should ask yourselves to narrow your search and find the perfect fit for your family.

Logistics: Where and For How Long?

• Distance from Home: How far are you willing to travel? While many parents worry about being too far in case of a real emergency (“What if I have to drive to camp?”), you are placing your trust in camp professionals to make quick, safe decisions on-site. In a true emergency, they are the first responders. Whether a camp is a quick car ride or a plane trip away, your faith must be in the leadership and staff.
• Session Length: Sleepaway camp is no longer just eight weeks. Are you looking for a full summer, a first or second half, or shorter sessions? Shorter terms and the option to extend on visiting day can be ideal if your family has travel plans or if you are unsure about a full-summer commitment.
• Co-ed, Single-Gender, or Sibling Camps: Do you prefer a co-ed environment or a single-gender experience? If you have multiple children, consider if a traditional brother-sister camp (separate programs with shared values) is best, or if your children should attend entirely different camps based on their individual needs.

Program: Specific Focus or All-Inclusive?

• Activity Focus: What kind of experience is your child seeking? Are you looking for a program that is specifically geared towards a single activity, such as a sports-intensive camp or a creative arts focus? Or would a traditional “general” camp with a wide variety of activity options be a better fit?

3. Culture & Leadership: Beyond the Bells and Whistles

• Mission, Values, and Culture: Most camps have similar “shiny things”—great facilities and activity lists. To truly differentiate them, look deeper. What are the camp’s core mission, values, and traditions? What is the prevailing camp culture?
• Director’s Philosophy: When choosing a camp, you are not just selecting a space; you are choosing who is running the show. Who is at the top? Think about the interactions you’ve had with the directors. Their philosophy is the foundation of the camp, and it trickles down to every staff member. Who do you think your kids would be comfortable approaching with a problem? If you felt a stronger connection with one camp director over another, that is often the best indicator of a good fit for your family.

The Decision Process: Final Steps

• Individual Needs: While the goal is often to have all your children in one spot, you must remember that every child is different. What might be the best place for one child may not be the right fit for another.
• Limit Your Search: Do not visit too many camps; seeing endless options only leads to confusion. As the parent, you should narrow the search down to your top two or three choices first. Then bring your child(ren) into the mix. This is a very big decision, and while their input is valuable, you ultimately know what is best for them.

Read some previous Blogs about this topic:

• Day Camp to Sleepaway Camp: When, Why & How?
• Thinking About Sleepaway Camp? Here are some of the best…
• Shibley Sleepaway Camp Savings Account Info

UPDATED – FEBRUARY 2026

We are lucky to be affiliated with some of the BEST sleepaway camps around!  We have co-ed or single gender; full season, half season or shorter; and traditional or specialty.  Please reach out directly to each camp OR let us know which you are interested in and we are happy to make introductions to those camps’ directors. We are also happy to discuss which camps might be the best fit for your family! We love to talk about camp!

Many Shibley campers will first attend our annual Sleepaway Week program before moving on to one of the wonderful camps below. This is a great way to see if your child is ready!

We offer special discounts towards the first summer at a CampGroup camp based on how long you have been at Shibley: CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO.

How do we know when our children are ready for sleepaway camp?
DAY CAMP TO SLEEPAWAY CAMP – WHEN, WHY AND HOW? – BY HAYLEY

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 ASD, AD/HD, 2e or a similar neurodivergent 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

Berkshire United Sports Camp – Sheffield, Massachusetts

Berkshire United Sports Camp provides a high-level sports-centric experience for male and female athletes focusing on individual skill and athletic development. We provide both one-week and two-week camp experiences for campers having completed 4th through 10th grades. Campers can choose to focus on Ice Hockey, Field Hockey, Lacrosse, Volleyball, Golf or Soccer. Male and female athletes concentrate on one primary sport of their choice. They will receive premier skill-focused coaching delivered by experienced professionals.

We offer flexible one-week and two-week options. The Berkshire United Experience centers on intensive training tailored to our athletes’ primary sport. We offer access to top-notch indoor and outdoor facilities for optimal training. We will prioritize both skill and character development. Alongside the specialized sports training, athletes will have the opportunity to participate in traditional summer camp programming. This balance helps foster personal growth, friendships, and a diverse range of skills beyond the individual’s primary sport.

413-203-6905

directors@berkshireunited.com

www.berkshireunited.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 is an all-girls camp located on Lake Ashmere in the beautiful Berkshire Mountains of Western Massachusetts. Families can choose from our full-season program or opt for shorter durations with our Danbee in 3 or Danbee in 4 programs. We pride ourselves on a grounded and spirited community with a strong emphasis on high-level instruction while offering traditional camp programming.

Since 1950, we have been welcoming campers from all over the country and around the world, who are entering 2nd grade through 10th grade. We want our girls to be the best versions of themselves while leaving camp feeling confident, empowered, and with lifelong connections. Celebrating each campers’ uniqueness, our girls experience all that Danbee has to offer! From the lake to the fields and to the Dance studios, our days are structured and our campers are participatory!

413-655-8115

annie@campdanbee.com

www.campdanbee.com

Camp Emerson – Hinsdale, Massachusetts

Camp Emerson is a co-ed sleepaway camp nestled against the Appalachian Trail in the heart of the Berkshires. Since 1968 we have been providing incredible summer experiences for youth from around the world. We offer 2-week sessions for kids ages 7-15. Our diverse programming consists of 50 activities grouped into six departments – Athletics, Performing Arts, Science/Music, Studio Arts, Watersports, and Wilderness.

And while kids often come for the fun activities, they return summer after summer for the caring community and meaningful friendships. At Camp Emerson our campers benefit from an atmosphere of collaboration, creativity, and connection. Our goal is for campers to leave Emerson each summer feeling more confident, inspired, connected to their camp family, and the natural world.

413-655-8123

tony@campemerson.com

campemerson.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.

847-242-0009

dana@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 half season (3 1/2 weeks) overnight camp for girls 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 6-14! 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 Bryn Mawr Camp – Honesdale, Pennsylvania

Established a century ago as a special summer home just for girls, Lake Bryn Mawr Camp is more than a place. It’s a community where a camper can feel truly free to be herself, where she can try new things surrounded by “summer sisters” who will celebrate her successes and help her learn from her mistakes, where the emphasis is not on her appearance or her accomplishments but on her character.

At the heart of everything we do is our Angel Code, the set of core values that have guided Bryn Mawr since 1921. These four qualities help guide campers to make good decisions and be good citizens whether they’re here at camp or back at home, “living ten months for two.”

973-467-3518

angel@campbrynmawr.com

www.campbrynmawr.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.

847-242-0009

dana@lwcgwc.com

www.lwcgwc.com

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

Families across the country choose Camp Mah-Kee-Nac because it provides a trusted boys’ overnight camp experience in the Berkshires, with strong traditions and values, dedicated counselors, and a program that balances fun, structure, and personal growth.

rachel@campmkn.com

www.campmkn.com

Camp Towanda – Honesdale, Pennsylvania

570-253-3266

mendy@camptowanda.com

www.camptowanda.com

Camp Walt Whitman – Piermont, New Hampshire

You want your child to feel happy, confident, and excited about the world around them. You want them to make real friends, try new things, and discover they’re capable of more than they think- all in a place where they feel safe, known, and genuinely cared for. Camp Walt Whitman is built for families who want their child’s summer to be filled with joy, adventure, and meaningful growth.

At Walt Whitman, kind kids and thoughtful, down-to-earth families come together around shared values of friendship, character, and community. Campers are encouraged to be themselves, to look out for one another, and to take small, brave steps each day: climbing higher on the ropes course, paddling across the lake, sleeping in a cabin away from home, or raising their hand to try something new. Those experiences quickly become confidence, independence, and a deep sense of belonging. For almost 80 years, our family has worked to create a place where children are supported, gently challenged, and surrounded by adventure, fun, and friendships that last far beyond summer.

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 a girls’ sleep-away camp in Hebron New Hampshire.  We offer a three and a half-week traditional summer camp experience for campers completing grades 1-9. In addition, we offer a one-time, first year only Explorer Two Week Program for younger campers (Current 1-3^rd graders in first session and current 1^st-4^th graders in second session).

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.

603-744-3301

justin@campwicosuta.com

www.campwicosuta.com

Camp Winaukee – Moultonboro, New Hampshire

Winaukee provides excellent sports instruction anchored in a traditional sleep-away camp environment. Over 100 years of tradition is weaved into campers’ daily lives as they learn new skills, build confidence, develop meaningful relationships and become better athletes and teammates.

Boys are immersed in a developmentally appropriate setting that adjusts to their needs as they grow with us. Our distinct Mainland and Island campuses share our Winaukee values while meeting your son where he is socially and athletically.

A typical Winaukee camper loves to compete, regardless of athletic skill level, and is part of a brotherhood where the person comes before wins and losses. Winaukee campers’ confidence levels and social independence grow as they are nurtured in a safe community.

Camp Winaukee is more than a sum of it’s parts — the sports, the trips, the lake, the tournaments, the tradition, the competition, the staff — we are creating life changing experiences for boys who return home as more confident versions of themselves.

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.

Schedule a Tour or a Rookie Day to see the magic of Winadu firsthand. Your son will take part in activities, see our campus and hear about our camp traditions. Parent tours will be guided by a Director and are a great way to have all your questions about camp for your son and Winadu answered. Contact us to learn more about these options:

914-437-7200

alissa@campwinadu.com

www.campwinadu.com

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