Junior Camp to Senior Camp – What to Expect

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