Erin's Reflection
Keywords:
Now that camp has officially started, describe one challenge and how you overcame it during the transition to camp duties.
One main challenge I’ve faced during class is getting the campers to listen and follow instructions. Since I’m in the junior classroom with 5 year olds, it can be quite challenging to get and maintain their attention. Some things I have done to help this are utilizing call and response patterns and simplifying and repeating instructions. For those campers that were continuously not listening, a private conversation with them normally helped me to understand their behaviour. If that didn’t work, I would talk to their parents to see if they had any strategies that worked for their child. Overall, these strategies worked and I have gotten the campers to be more attentive during camp.
Describe your top 3 camp moments thus far and why they stand out to you.
One moment that stands out to me is after the school-wide relay race. After our group was finished and we were waiting for the others to be done, I encouraged the campers to dance to the music. Some of them were hesitant but I eventually got all of them dancing and was dancing with them. It was a very happy moment for myself and the campers. Another moment that continuously stands out to me is when some of the campers want to hold my hand when we walk in the hallway. Although it’s a small thing, it shows me that they feel comfortable and safe with me which is a great feeling as a counsellor. Another highlight of camp is during our tie dye activity. I got to spend 1-on-1 time with the campers while I was helping them tie dye and felt like I strongly bonded with them during that time.
Being a month into camp, how do you see the summer camp experience contributing to your personal and professional growth?
Being a camp counsellor has definitely increased my confidence in communicating with the campers, parents, and other staff. As I got used to the people I work with, I found it easier and more comfortable to effectively communicate with them. Communication skills are fundamental in both personal and professional settings. Additionally, this role has made me a quick thinker and make decisions on the fly. When incidents happen or campers are getting rowdy, I have to act quickly to make sure that camp runs smoothly and everyone stays safe and happy. This is also a great skill to have personally and professionally as it makes me a quick problem solver.
Please nominate someone who deserves the employee of the month award and explain why briefly.
I would like to nominate Aminah for employee of the month. Not only is she a fantastic site leader, she’s always making sure that the staff are taken care of and helping where she can. Thank you Aminah!
Share photos of fond memories you made while at work.
