“Hands on top!”
The counsellor struggles to redirect the children’s attention to the next activity. The children turn around and respond with: “That means stop.”
The camp counsellor then begins to explain the next part of the day, referenced from their program plan. The program plan is designed two weeks prior to camp. During this period, the counsellor spends their time researching and consulting activity manuals, and seeing which games align with the week’s theme.
Those who have worked as camp counsellors know that being one is more than playing games with children.
Before summer camp begins, counsellors must complete training which covers important aspects of program planning, dealing with parents, and managing behavioral issues. These trainings are intensive, with jam-packed information.
Then they have to prepare for camp by making decorations, banners, and signages across the community centre. Camp counsellors can spend up to 40 hours preparing for camp, but once camp begins, they’re the heroes fighting on the frontlines.
Parents perceive them as a teacher. The counsellor should be able to handle their children, observe their behavior, and facilitate games. They’re the leaders of the group, giving direction.
Additionally, children view them as friends. And even when a lot of personal situations are going on at home, the counsellor still manages to come to camp every day to play games. The children may share stories too, which the counsellor listens to.
So, as a camp counsellor, you have lots of responsibilities.
You have to watch children for seven to eight hours a day. You must also make sure the children are safe as well. When they get hurt, you’re responsible for providing first aid and medical treatment.
But other than that, you’ll have to deal with lots of behavioral issues. Some children may be runners and constantly sneak out of the room. And others may not listen or follow directions. But you’re there to ensure these children are having a good time, and that every child is included in the games.
Being a camp counsellor is more than just a summer job for teenagers and college students.
You have to deal with issues as they arise and handle emergencies with ease. These all require problem-solving skills, while being in a physically demanding environment.
Then, when you interact with guardians, you must uphold a certain level of professionalism. You have to communicate your observations in a neutral manner. And you have to ensure you’re on the lookout for their children because the parents are relying on you to be responsible.
Moreover, running activities for all the children isn’t an easy task. You have to explain instructions clearly and ensure the children understand the activity. And for the children who are sitting out, you’ll have to find a way to engage them.
Despite all of that, camp counsellors are paid low and treated poorly.
According to the Labour Standards Act in Quebec, camp counsellors can be paid lower than minimum wage if they are a student, under the age of 18, and are working for a non-profit summer camp. This is even the case for the United States.
Camp counsellor jobs are seasonal, which means they don’t have many benefits. But if you’ll have to work in the rain, the sun, or swim in the pool, shouldn’t you deserve a mental break or a doctor checkup?
So, let’s show more gratitude toward our camp counsellors. We need to appreciate the work they do and the time they spend. Non-profit organizations and other companies need to start treating their camp counsellors better and pay them a fair wage. Because they are making a difference in every kid’s lives.
When you walk by a summer camp, be sure to thank the counsellors for their hard work. Let them know the children are enjoying the summer because of them.
If you want to make a difference on an organizational level, write to politicians or other summer camp directors. Let them know that camp counsellors deserve better.
Work as a camp counsellor is often tiring and exhausting. But in the end, most of these counsellors continue to work camps in order to make a children’s summer memorable. So shouldn’t we show these folks more appreciation?
Photo by Anna Samoylova on Unsplash
