Junior Camp (Units A - C)

The beach entrance and shallow teaching well at our pool is useful for young swimmers. We use a Red Cross certified instruction program which we supplement with Green Acres lessons. Because we want children to develop a love of swimming, we do not force children to do anything other than to dress in their bathing suits and come to the pool. We evaluate where campers are as it relates to their comfort level and skill and then divide into small teaching groups to work on strokes, turns, and diving. Counselors are in the pool assisting the swim staff which helps to keep the teaching groups small. For more information on our swimming program >

Science class is a time of wonder, where Unit A campers are intrigued by an introductory activity, such as generating a hypothesis about the purpose of a natural object, and then following it up through exploration outside. After class discussions about their observations, they come to conclusions about what they have observed.

Activities are hands-on and often interest driven. They may involve an exploration of chemical reactions, physical properties of objects, and even computer programming of simple robots. It is always an exciting place to be!

The art room provides opportunities for Unit A campers to express themselves in a variety of ways. All styles of creativity are valued and appreciated. An inspirational activity is introduced, and campers are then able to complete a project according to their interpretations and choice of medium. Specific artistic styles and the methods in which they are incorporated into book illustrations are often shared to inspire young artists.

Painting, weaving, paper mosaics, puppets are just a few examples of projects that might be seen in this room of creative expression!

Working with tools is always an exciting, yet challenging activity for small hands. Unit A campers are taught the basics of carpentry safety, and are introduced to tools at an appropriate level for the age and skill. Counselors are on hand to assist with project completion after the introductory lesson is presented. Counselors are careful to assist and not complete the work for the campers so that they are able to learn the fundamental skills of woodworking.

At this age, campers learn how to properly use hammers and nails. They are able to practice using screw drivers, and even small drills with assistance. Painting, gluing, and decorating items such as door hangers, stick people, bobble heart note holders, and bracelets are some of the projects that these young campers proudly complete. They are always anxious to learn more!

Our younger campers seem to have an endless supply of energy, and Sports Stars is a great class in which to expel it! Campers begin with stretches and drills, which help them to warm up their muscles and to focus on the skills which will be developed during the games they will play. They learn to listen, follow game directions, and sportsmanship all while having a great time. Laughter and fun can be observed throughout the class as campers are introduced to new versions of Freeze Tag, Dodge Ball, parachute games, and “Don’t Throw Your Trash in my Backyard”! Rest and water breaks are provided throughout the class, and a variety of games are interspersed to prevent boredom while exercising different muscle groups. Skills and games are age appropriate to keep interest alive and the enthusiasm to return to class again. Everyone can be a star in Sports Stars!

In this creative classroom, Unit A campers embark on a musical journey into the exploration of rhythm, melody and the creation of original songs. They begin by learning to sing and move to a song, and then isolate specific parts to use in creating new compositions of their own. Campers enjoy creating rhythms to play with different instruments and making their own melodic patterns.  Campers have fun playing new beats on a variety instruments and forming a band incorporating their overlapping rhythms. Campers use three different percussion instruments in groups to create a rhythmic ensemble that includes different patterns that all fit together into a unified whole. Being part of a group like this is a wonderful way to experience the music and see how each member adds to the whole! 

Who doesn’t enjoy cooking and eating the finished product? In this class, campers learn important cooking skills such as measuring, mixing, and cooperating as members of a team. Campers are introduced to baking tools and how to use them safely. They use their math and discussion skills in order to follow a recipe, and often observe the results of combining different ingredients together. Sometimes they relate what they see to experiences they have had in Young Explorers!

Campers are able to create delectable snacks from scratch that are fun to make, such as “Dirt Pudding”, biscuits, patriotic Jell-O, and muffins! Recipes are shared and can be replicated at home with Mom and Dad!

In addition to the educational experiences that campers experience throughout the day, it is important for them to have some downtime. This involves free play outdoors, with room to run and scream or play an organized game. There are two dedicated play areas for junior campers with swings, several playhouses, sandboxes, and numerous climbing structures and slides. There is a wooded area that provides shade on those hot, sunny days, and plenty of counselors who both play with and supervise the children. Bathroom breaks are given on an as needed basis, and water bottles are always on hand for necessary rehydration! Free play is as necessary a component as the guided activities provided, and Green Acres is fortunate to have such a great environment in which to provide both!

Our outdoor amphitheater, fondly known as “Gully” is a perfect way to begin the camp morning while waiting for all campers to arrive. Campers are greeted by cheerful staff members who guide them to their units, where they are entertained with songs, games, jokes, and skits. Campers have the opportunity to watch their counselors be silly on stage, and are invited to engage with them on a voluntary basis. Birthdays are celebrated with individual crowns and the birthday song to make their day special. If weather is inclement, the fun continues in the Big Room inside. Campers learn many traditional camp songs in Gully, as well the infamous “Announcements” chant that become memories for years to come. At the conclusion of Gully, all campers head to their units singing, to begin the day on a happy note.

Everyone looks forward to something special at the end of a long week, and Green Acres does not disappoint! From Mustache Day to Halloween Day, our Spirit Days are always fun! In addition, the Fourth of July Fun Run and parade, Unit special days, and a staff vaudeville show at the end of camp all provide extra fun for campers to enjoy. You can be sure to hear campers sharing about the exciting programs provided in addition to their already fun filled days!

The beach entrance and shallow teaching well at our pool is useful for young swimmers. We use a Red Cross certified instruction program which we supplement with Green Acres lessons. Because we want children to develop a love of swimming, we do not force children to do anything other than to dress in their bathing suits and come to the pool. We evaluate where campers are as it relates to their comfort level and skill and then divide into small teaching groups to work on strokes, turns, and diving. Counselors are in the pool assisting the swim staff which helps to keep the teaching groups small. Click here for more information on our swimming program.

Science class builds upon what Unit B campers have experienced in the past. They are familiar with the idea of asking questions and searching for answers through experimentation. Now they begin to develop more critical thinking skills with one another. Campers complete charts of their observations and add questions that might help them learn more.

There continue to be exciting experiments that may involve anything from bubble composition to the properties of soap. Robot programming becomes more complicated with changing directions and making complicated turns. Campers are learning scientific terminology and using information gleaned from informational videos. They are always excited to return for more!

As little hands become stronger and more skilled with using scissors, paintbrushes, and pencils, the projects become more intricate. There is more of an emphasis of illustrator study and interesting investigations, such as the exploration of color mixing, dot drawing, and decoupage. Unit B campers recognize the individuality of a variety of artists, and begin to experiment with their own creativity while completing projects. There is time for sharing and comparing strategies with one another when projects are finished.

Campers are always enthusiastic to return to woodworking. As Unit B campers, their manual dexterity is more developed, and they are able to manipulate the tools more easily. Supervision is still of the utmost importance, as campers are using tools, but campers are able to do more with less assistance.

Projects become more complicated and involve more drilling, hammering, and using screwdrivers than glue. Games, simple boxes, and boats complete with sails may be some of the projects that are completed by the end of the six weeks. Campers are proud to share their accomplishments with their family and friends, and we love to display them on Parents’ Morning!

Campers are excited to play games and have fun. Stretches and drills continue to be an integral part of the activity, as it is important to warm up those bigger muscles and practice eye-hand coordination. Games become more complicated as more difficult skills are incorporated, and Unit B campers begin to demonstrate their developing skills at a faster rate.

Campers are able to offer suggestions as to how to change the games and tailor them to utilize their creative ideas. Endurance begins to develop, and campers are able to last longer before needing a rest break. However, water breaks are still required, especially on those very hot days. When inclement weather occurs, the fun is taken inside where one might see campers participating in parachute games, obstacle courses, or organized sports.

Campers continue to explore the relationship between rhythm, melody, and the inclusion of body movement. Unit B campers are able to maintain a regular beat and begin to become more creative with the composition of individual songs. Music is used to give and follow directions, and familiar songs are often used within the lesson to demonstrate a musical concept.

Instruments are incorporated and campers begin to learn more complicated music theory. Campers are able to recognize specific notes, rests, and how the written music relates to the playing of the instruments. Solo parts are often highlighted before the entire chorus comes together to create an entire musical piece. Laughter and fun continue to be a part of this class, as individual ideas are incorporated into the composition process. What a fun way to learn music!

Cooking is a class that is always popular because everyone likes to create and eat, no matter what his/her age. Campers are becoming more familiar with mathematical terms, thus they are able to decipher the mathematics found within the recipes. Rather than simply measure ½ cup of an ingredient, they are able to discern how a half cup relates to a whole cup. Recipes may contain more steps and require both listening and reading skills to successfully complete. If a recipe is not successful, campers are able to discuss what might have gone wrong.

Working in a group requires campers to develop group cooperation and patience. They may develop strategies, such as everyone counting to 5 when stirring, before passing to the next person. Some recipes may be completed individually, such as making ice cream in a bag, but each camper must still follow the directions and share ingredients fairly.

Unit B campers relish the chance to play outdoors. They tend to become more involved with group games, which require cooperation and the understanding of rules. Some of these games are familiar favorites, while others are individually created. This provides opportunities for leadership development, as well as the ability to be a team player.

Campers continue to have access to dedicated play areas and playground equipment. Counselors both supervise and play with the campers, and encourage the development of problem solving. This is an important skill which continues to develop throughout the camp experience.

Our outdoor amphitheater, fondly known as “Gully” is a perfect way to begin the camp morning while waiting for all campers to arrive. Campers are greeted by cheerful staff members who guide them to their units, where they are entertained with songs, games, jokes, and skits. Campers have the opportunity to watch their counselors be silly on stage, and are invited to engage with them on a voluntary basis. Birthdays are celebrated with individual crowns and the birthday song to make their day special. If weather is inclement, the fun continues in the Big Room inside. Campers learn many traditional camp songs in Gully, as well the infamous “Announcements” chant that become memories for years to come. At the conclusion of Gully, all campers head to their units singing, to begin the day on a happy note.

Everyone looks forward to something special at the end of a long week, and Green Acres does not disappoint! Mustache Day and Halloween Day are favorite Spirit Days. In addition, the Fourth of July Fun Run and parade, Unit B Special Day (camper stay have special activities and stay until 5:30 pm) and a staff vaudeville show at the end of camp all provide extra fun for campers to enjoy. You can be sure to hear campers sharing about the exciting programs provided in addition to their already fun filled days!

We use a Red Cross certified instruction program which we supplement with Green Acres lessons. Because we want children to develop a love of swimming, we do not force children to do anything other than to dress in their bathing suits and come to the pool. We evaluate where campers are as it relates to their comfort level and skill and then divide into small teaching groups to work on strokes, turns, and diving. Counselors are in the pool assisting the swim staff which helps to keep the teaching groups small. Click here for more information on our swimming program.

Unit C scientists progress from the development of questions and observations, to the actual completion of a scientific investigation. Group discussion of collected data becomes an integral part of the formulation of a conclusion. Some of the experiments are generated by the instructor, while others are developed or molded by the students themselves. Some favorite investigations have been “The Pool Noodle Disappearance”, “Snow in the Summer”, and “Simple Rocket Science”.

As daily classes pique the interests of the students, some may decide to choose Young Explorers as their week of intensive study, where more opportunities for creative investigation can take place. Science is a great place for the inquisitive mind!

A greater emphasis is put on artistic style and technique once campers reach Unit C. Skills develop through the careful guidance of the instructor, as she shares information about specific artists and their styles. This becomes a springboard for individual creativity, and the projects become very interesting. Campers are encouraged to explore, and are motivated to design their own products. The choice of Kaleidoscope as a weekly intensive provides an opportunity for budding artists to follow their own motivation and enthusiasm for art.

Unit C campers are excited to build! They have learned fundamental skills, and continue to work on the process of following steps more independently in order to produce a finished product. Campers have the opportunity to be more creative with their activities, and are motivated to add individual touches. Some favorites are birdhouses, catapults, and treasure boxes.

Choosing Little Carpenters for the week allows campers to work uninterrupted on a project that may require more time and effort to complete. There is a great sense of satisfaction when one is able to follow an idea through to fruition.

Since Unit C participates in Sports Stars for a week, their curriculum functions as a mini-camp. Campers continue to incorporate drills and skill development before moving on to more advanced technical instruction. The instructor is sure to include fun activities, such as wet sponge relays to keep it fun, especially during hot the hot weather, and the week concludes with a full game, such as soccer, as well as a medal ceremony. During Week 4, the entire unit, including counselors, participate in large group games. Some of the favorites are Capture the Flag, Kickball, and Scooter Hockey. If Unit C campers choose Sports Stars as their week long choice, they will play a variety of games of their choice. Sports Stars is a popular choice for the active camper!

Unit C campers have gained experience listening and repeating patterns, and incorporating movement into their musical compositions. Instruments become a more integral part of the class and melodic parts are based on campers’ ideas. Campers cooperate with partners and take turns as leader and follower. Musical format is discussed and campers are able to explore and create new arrangements.  Improvisation is explored and free dance is often incorporated.

Campers who are truly music lovers often choose Mini-Maestros as their week(s) of choice as they have the opportunity to delve into the development of more creative and original compositions.

Cooking is a class that is always popular because everyone likes to create and eat, no matter what his/her age. Campers are becoming more familiar with mathematical terms, thus they are able to decipher the mathematics found within the recipes. Rather than simply measure ½ cup of an ingredient, they are able to discern how a half cup relates to a whole cup. Recipes may contain more steps and require both listening and reading skills to successfully complete. If a recipe is not successful, campers are able to discuss what might have gone wrong.

Working in a group requires campers to develop group cooperation and patience. They may develop strategies, such as everyone counting to 5 when stirring, before passing to the next person. Some recipes may be completed individually, such as making ice cream in a bag, but each camper must still follow the directions and share ingredients fairly.

Swim Olympics is a motivating and exciting opportunity for campers to develop their swimming skills through a variety of games and contests. Instead of instruction and practice, campers work together as a team to reach goals while having fun swimming. They are introduced to new games and pool equipment such as rings, diving tools, and kick boards that are incorporated in counselor created challenges. Swim Olympics is an additional activity that offers more than just a free swim period, and an addition to lessons.

Unit C campers relish the chance to play outdoors. They tend to become more involved with group games, which require cooperation and the understanding of rules. Some of these games are familiar favorites, while others are individually created. This provides opportunities for leadership development, as well as the ability to be a team player.

Campers continue to have access to dedicated play areas and playground equipment. Counselors both supervise and play with the campers, and encourage the development of problem solving. This is an important skill which continues to develop throughout the camp experience.

Our outdoor amphitheater, fondly known as “Gully” is a perfect way to begin the camp morning while waiting for all campers to arrive. Campers are greeted by cheerful staff members who guide them to their units, where they are entertained with songs, games, jokes, and skits. Campers have the opportunity to watch their counselors be silly on stage, and are invited to engage with them on a voluntary basis. Birthdays are celebrated with individual crowns and the birthday song to make their day special. If weather is inclement, the fun continues in the Big Room inside. Campers learn many traditional camp songs in Gully, as well the infamous “Announcements” chant that become memories for years to come. At the conclusion of Gully, all campers head to their units singing, to begin the day on a happy note.

Everyone looks forward to something special at the end of a long week, and Green Acres does not disappoint! From Mustache Day to Halloween Day, our Spirit Days are always fun! In addition, the Fourth of July Fun Run and parade, Unit C Special Day (Campers stay late to swim and have dinner!), and a staff vaudeville show at the end of camp all provide extra fun for campers to enjoy. You can be sure to hear campers sharing about the exciting programs provided in addition to their already fun filled days!