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Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/big-emotions-burnout-and-better-support - What Camp Staff Learned From the Challenges of Summer 2026Join Dane and Matt as they reflect on the challenges, surprises, and lessons of summer 2026. From the unexpected success of screen free camp experiences to the growing mental health needs of campers and staff, this conversation explores what counselors and camp directors can learn from the season to make summer 2027 even better. They discuss how to help anxious campers adjust at their own pace, respond to difficult behavior without escalating situations, support staff through emotional challenges, and rethink how breaks are managed. The episode is an honest reminder that camp is both one of the most rewarding and demanding jobs, and that getting better starts with reflection, intentional support, and a willingness to change. Key Takeaways: Screen Free Camp Can Be a Positive Experience for Everyone. Dane found that campers adapted well to a policy asking families not to send devices. When most campers understand that phones are not part of the camp experience, going without one can feel normal rather than isolating. A shared screen free environment can help campers connect with each other and fully participate in camp life.Staff Training Must Include Emotional Regulation and Support. Returning staff bring valuable experience, but familiarity with camp does not make every challenge easy. Counselors need practical strategies for recognizing when they are overwhelmed, taking appropriate breaks, asking for help, and responding to campers in a way that maintains emotional steadiness. Experiencing a difficult moment does not make someone a bad counselor. What matters is learning from it and building better ways to respond.Camp Directors Should Connect Staff With the Right Mental Health Resources. Counselors and directors can provide care, listen, and offer immediate support, but they are not necessarily equipped to address every mental health concern. Camps should establish clear pathways to appropriate professional resources and encourage staff to seek help when needed. Directors should also avoid becoming the only person staff rely on, building a broader support system that can function even when leadership is unavailable.- Behavior Tip(Final name to be determined) Dane: Big emotions require gentle responses Matt: The Simplicity Parenting Podcast - Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProDane Savoury, Director of Operations, Camp Amy Molson. Contact Email.- Sponsors:AMSkier AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at https://amskier.com/. Ultracamp Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today's camp counselor and tomorrow's camp leader. Learn more at https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/ten-top-tips-for-summer-2026 - Preparing for a Successful 2026 Summer Camp SeasonJoin Oliver and Matt for the season finale of First Class Counselors as they count down ten essential tips for the upcoming 2026 summer. This episode provides a quick reference guide for frontline staff focusing on everything from active supervision and safety protocols to the psychology of camper behavior. The hosts discuss how to create a culture of belonging through strength based mindsets and provide actionable tools like facilitation frameworks to ensure every counselor is prepared to lead with confidence and empathy. Key Takeaways: Behavior is Communication. When campers act out it is often an expression of an unmet need such as being hungry or tired. Using the HALT acronym allows counselors to address the root cause of challenging behavior while providing grace and maintaining a strong relationship with the child.Master Facilitation Through Structure. Effective leadership during activities requires clear communication and meaningful reflection. By using the philosophy of one goal and three steps followed by the So What and Now What debriefing method counselors can ensure safety while helping campers apply life lessons beyond the cabin.Model the Values You Expect. Counselors are professional role models who are always teaching through their actions and energy levels. Maintaining consistent boundaries and following camp rules regarding phone use or physical interactions ensures that campers respect the environment and feel safe within the community.- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:Oliver: 3D Printers Matt: Gratitude Jars - Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProOliver Gregan, Executive Director at YMCA Camp Winona

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/connecting-with-modern-camper-culture - How Digital Media Shapes Modern Camper ExpectationsThis episode explores the intersection of modern pop culture and the summer camp experience. The team discusses the transition from traditional play to the watching culture of YouTube and streaming services, emphasizing how counselors can use this knowledge to build genuine connections with campers. The conversation breaks down the differences between digital open world environments and physical skill building while offering practical advice on adapting facilitation styles for shorter attention spans and high sensory needs. Key Takeaways: Modern entertainment often focuses on the finished product rather than the process, leading to a watching culture where kids witness skills instead of practicing them. Counselors should combat this by building anticipation for activities and slowing down the process to ensure campers learn the mechanical steps behind camp traditions like fire building or archery.You do not need to be an expert in Roblox or Bluey to connect with kids, but being curious about their interests is vital. Asking campers to teach you about their favorite digital worlds empowers them and creates a social bridge that helps new or hesitant kids feel included in the cabin group.Digital play has shifted towards open world exploration and constant comparison, which camps can mirror through creative gamification. By rewarding positive character traits like integrity and grace through systems like ‘Green Giant’ points, directors can ensure that comparison remains a tool for celebration rather than just another form of competition.- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:Oliver: Mio Flavoured Water Matt: Water Skip Ball & Wave / Gate Ball - Sponsors:Ultracamp Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today's camp counselor and tomorrow's camp leader. Learn more at https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass - Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProOliver Gregan, Executive Director at YMCA Camp Winona

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/so-you-want-to-be-on-leadership - Understanding the Responsibility and Reality of Summer Camp Leadership RolesThis episode explores the transition from being a frontline counselor to joining the seasonal leadership team. This episode dismantles the myth that leadership is about status or power, instead framing it as a vital shift toward serving staff and maintaining the camp mission from behind the scenes. They discuss how to identify if you are ready for the move, how to start preparing this summer for a promotion next year, and why the best leaders are often the ones who work hardest when no one is watching. Key Takeaways: Leadership is Service Not Status. Stepping into a leadership role means moving away from direct camper connections to focus on empowering your fellow staff members. You must be prepared to give up personal glory to ensure that the counselors you lead have everything they need to succeed.Take Initiative While Maintaining Integrity. If you want to move into leadership, start by solving problems before they are assigned and demonstrating that you can follow camp policies perfectly. Directors look for staff who walk the walk and can be trusted to uphold safety and culture even during their time off.Prepare for the Reality of Tough Conversations. Being a leader often requires delivering difficult news to staff or parents and holding your peers accountable. Developing the emotional maturity to handle these moments while staying present in the daily joy of camp is the hallmark of a counselor moving into a director role.- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:Oliver: Using plastic chef containers for organizing craft supplies.  Matt: The board game: Sequoia - Sponsors:Ultracamp Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today's camp counselor and tomorrow's camp leader. Learn more at https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass - Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProOliver Gregan, Executive Director at YMCA Camp Winona

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/be-better-at-giving-consequences - Teaching Through Consequences Instead of PunishmentJoin Matt and Dane as they dive into part two of their masterclass on summer camp discipline. This episode shifts the focus from general headspace to the practical application of consequences and the art of camper reintegration. They explore how counselors can move away from punitive winning mindsets and instead use every mistake as a teaching opportunity that builds trust rather than breaking it. From navigating power struggles to deciding which hills are actually worth dying on, this conversation provides frontline staff with the tools they need to maintain a positive cabin environment all summer long. Key Takeaways: Focus on Teaching Rather Than Hurting. Effective consequences are designed to help a camper learn emotional regulation and social skills rather than simply making them feel bad. When a counselor enters a situation with a teaching mindset they are more likely to remain calm and help the child understand how to make better choices in the future.Drop the Rope to Avoid Power Struggles. Power struggles occur when both the staff member and the camper are pulling against each other to see who will submit. By practicing self regulation and consciously choosing to drop the rope the counselor remains the adult in the situation and prevents a conflict from escalating into a relationship damaging battle.Use the Three Buckets of Behavior to Prioritize Interventions. Not every action requires a heavy consequence. Categorizing behaviors into typical actions, safety concerns, and the “f it” bucket allows staff to conserve their energy for what truly matters while letting go of minor issues like mismatched socks or harmless quirks.- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:Dane: Taking FUN Cabin Photos Matt: DnD Dice - Sponsors:Ultracamp Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today's camp counselor and tomorrow's camp leader. Learn more at https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass - Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProDane Savoury, Director of Operations, Camp Amy Molson. Contact Email.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/are-we-disciplining-kids-enough - Reframing Discipline as a Teaching Tool for Every CounselorJoin Matt and Dane as they redefine what it means to lead through discipline in a summer camp setting. Dane shares his twenty-one years of experience working with diverse populations to explain why discipline should be viewed as a teaching tool rather than a punitive measure. The conversation explores how counselors can set themselves up for success by building intentional rela`tionships through play and shared interests before any rules are ever broken.  Key Takeaways: Focus on Connection Before Correction. Establishing a solid relationship through shared interests creates the necessary trust for discipline to be effective later on. If the first meaningful conversation a counselor has with a child is a correction, the opportunity for a positive influence is already lost.Frame Rules with Positive Language and the Why. Instead of listing restrictions like don't jump on the bed, counselors should use positive framing such as beds are for sleeping. Explaining the purpose behind a boundary helps campers understand that rules exist for their safety and the respect of the community rather than just to limit their fun.- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:Dane: Games that Fit into your Pocket, UNO Matt: Darn Tough Socks, or Great Sox  - Sponsors:Ultracamp Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today's camp counselor and tomorrow's camp leader. Learn more at https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass - Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProDane Savoury, Director of Operations, Camp Amy Molson. Contact Email.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/using-stats-to-master-counseling - How You Can Become A Data-Driven LeaderThis episode dives into the numbers behind great counseling, from safety ratios to camper retention. By treating camp as a measurable social business, staff can identify their strengths, improve their safety efficiency, and track their personal growth throughout the summer. They discuss how to turn qualitative experiences into quantitative success to help every staff member become a first class counselor. Key Takeaways: The Behavioral Closing Rate: Professionalism is measured by how effectively a counselor can resolve behavioral issues and communicate them through proper reporting channels.Conversions and Friendships: Success can be measured through camper return rates and the intentional fostering of friendships that last beyond the summer.Personal Special Powers: Every first class counselor has a unique magic factor, whether it is a specific skill like ceramics or a jack of all trades ability to facilitate any program on the fly.E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:Oliver: Sorting Hat-Type Ceremony Matt: G.M.I.C (Great Moments In Camping!)  Sponsors:Ultracamp Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today's camp counselor and tomorrow's camp leader. Learn more at https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProOliver Gregan, Executive Director at YMCA Camp Winona

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/should-we-send-them-home - Finding Connection When You Are FrustratedWe’ve all been there. It’s week four, the coffee machine is broken, you are trying to get the cabin to the flagpole on time, and that camper is dragging their feet, making fart noises, and holding the broom upside down during cleanup. You don't necessarily want them sent home, but they are absolutely testing your patience. In this "high empathy" episode, Oliver and Matt validate those feelings of frustration while offering a roadmap to get back on track. They discuss the difference between behavior that is annoying versus behavior that requires a director's intervention, and how checking your own ego can de-escalate the situation. Key Takeaways: Identifying Your Triggers: Frustration often stems from specific stressors like lateness, perceived "weaponized incompetence" (like using a push broom incorrectly), or a camper's disinterest in planned activities. Recognizing these triggers is the first step to patience.Conformity vs. Leadership: Matt challenges counselors to ask why a behavior is frustrating. Is it disrupting the camp experience, or does it simply make you feel like you are losing control or "looking bad" as a leader?Connection Over Correction: You don't have to like every camper, but you do need to find a connection. Oliver shares a story about using Magic: The Gathering cards to bridge the gap with a disconnected camper.- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:Oliver: Survival Tag, The Game Matt: Find a water bottle that you love drinking from.  - Sponsors:AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com. - Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProOliver Gregan, Executive Director at YMCA Camp Winona

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/meaningful-and-masterful-facilitation - Stop Talking, Start Leading: The Counselor's Guide to FacilitationJoin Oliver and Matt as they delve into the art and science of facilitation—the core skill needed to run first-class activities, whether it's team building, archery, or a simple transition. This episode breaks down the critical stages of leading a group, from the moment they arrive to the final debrief. Learn how to master first impressions, use language effectively to manage attention, utilize props strategically, and employ powerful debriefing techniques that move beyond simply having fun to ensuring campers find real meaning and application in their experiences. Key Takeaways: Master the First Impression: Your initial interaction sets the tone. Use confidence, learn names (and address people by name), have well-rehearsed safety guidelines (like flight attendants), and offer a commitment to the group for the activity.Start with Play to Engage: Use quick, low-explanation, high-energy games (like "Everybody's It") immediately to get participants moving and focused on you as the leader. Use creative instructions to organize groups, such as the "Chicken Wing Circle."Debriefing is Transference of Learning: The purpose of debriefing is to help participants understand the significance of their experience and transfer those skills (community, communication, teamwork) to the non-camp world. Use the What, So What, Now What structure.- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:Oliver: AI music generator Suno Matt: Seed Bombs - Sponsors:AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at https://amskier.com - Host Links:Matt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProOliver Gregan, Executive Director at YMCA Camp Winona

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/building-a-culture-of-belonging - The Counselor's Guide to Universal Design, Behavior as Communication, and True Inclusion Join Oliver, Matt, and special guest Lisa Drennan as they dive deep into creating truly inclusive camp environments. Lisa emphasizes that belonging is the new inclusion. The discussion moves beyond simple access to practical, real-world strategies counselors can use daily, including adopting Universal Design principles, proactively using visual schedules and positive expectations, and understanding that all behavior is communication. Counselors will learn how to focus on camper strengths, manage transitions (like at the waterfront), and advocate for systemic changes to make camp a welcoming space for everyone—staff and campers alike.  This episode includes: Mindset Shift: Belonging Over Inclusion. The goal isn't just access or inclusion; it's ensuring every camper feels they belong. Start by focusing on a camper's strengths rather than their deficits or diagnoses.Proactive Communication & Structure: Utilize visual schedules and positive expectation lists daily (and for specific activities like swim time) to reduce anxiety for all campers, especially the neurodivergent. Frame all rules positively (e.g., "Use kind words" instead of "Don't swear").Behavior as Communication: When challenging behavior occurs, the first step is to find the "why." Behavior signals an unmet need (physiological, environmental, or social). Preventative measures like clear visuals and giving control back to the camper (e.g., transition countdowns) are key.- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever LearningOliver: Using flashcards! Matt: Small Bags of Lego for Fidgetting Lisa: Movies and Shows that are inclusive around disabilities: Atypical, The Peanut Butter Falcon, Out of My Mind - Sponsors:AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com. - Host LinksMatt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProOliver Gregan, Executive Director at YMCA Camp WinonaLisa Drennan, Founder of Merge Consulting

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/stopping-inappropriate-language - Words Stick: How to Intervene When Camper Language Crosses the LineThis episode, Oliver and Matt move give counselors the tactical framework needed to intervene immediately and effectively when campers use inappropriate, insensitive, or hurtful language. From the simple swear word to comments that are sexist, racist, or bullying, you'll learn exactly how to respond—whether you hear the comment directly, think you overheard it, or receive a report second-hand. This episode provides the "must-do" steps to address the behavior without alienating the camper, reinforcing that while the action was wrong, the camper is still a valued part of the community. Highlights from this episode include:The Essential Pause & Tone Shift: When a camper says something inappropriate, be immediate and direct. Use a strong "counselor voice" and a strategic pause for effectThe Full Value Contract: A proactive tool to establish cabin culture on Day 1. This group exercise shifts the focus from "what we don't do" to "what we should say and do" Words Float, Hurt Sticks: A powerful guiding principle: while the person who said the hurtful words will likely forget them, the words stick to the person they were directed at. "We" Over "You" Intervention Language: When addressing a camper privately, use inclusive language like, "That's not something we say here." - Links from the Show:‘Centre Cam’ Desktop Camera- E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever LearningOliver: ACA Camping Magazine  Matt: Previous First Class Counsellor: How to Ace Your Next Camp Interview - Sponsors:AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com. - Host LinksMatt Wilfrid, Executive Producer of Podcasting at Go Camp ProOliver Gregan, Executive Director at YMCA Camp Winona

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/traditions Steal These Amazing Camp Ideas!Welcome to Season 8 of First Class Counsellors! Oliver and Matt are back with a brand-new season, starting things off by swapping some of the coolest camp traditions and programs they’ve seen across North America. From celebrating CITs to welcoming first-time campers, this episode is packed with practical, stealable ideas that will help you bring more meaning, fun, and connection to your camp community. Highlights from this episode include: The CIT Walk – A reflective tradition that celebrates campers aging out of the program while inspiring younger campers to step into leadership.Staff Connection Time – How one camp intentionally builds space into the schedule for staff to rest, reconnect, and reset together.First-Year Camper Traditions – From “first-year breakfasts” to camp song videos, little touches that help new campers feel instantly included.Steps in the Right Direction – A shout-out system using stickers (or buttons!) to recognize acts of kindness and celebrate community wins.STEM Adventures – Inspiration from Newton’s Attic, a camp in Kentucky that blends engineering, creativity, and play into unforgettable programs.- Links from the Show: Newton’s Attic Camp: https://newtonsattic.com/ Y of the Pines - Gamification of programs.  https://ycamp.org/overnight-camp-for-boys-nj - E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning Oliver: Inflatable costume raceMatt: Shrinky Dinks / Shirink ArtBuy them here: https://shrinky-dink.com/Shrinky Dinks Guide: https://abeautifulmess.com/shrinky-dinks-ultimate-guide/- Sponsors: AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at amskier.com.

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/expectations We need to be honest about how hard (and how great) it is to be a camp counselor! Join Oliver Gregan and Matt Wilfrid as they delve into the crucial aspects of starting a career as a camp counselor in part two of their series. The discussion highlights vital tips and expectations for new counselors, focusing on the importance of preparation, safety, and understanding the multifaceted roles at camp. They emphasize the significance of being coachable, competent, and enthusiastic while managing the daily responsibilities that come with caring for campers. The episode also includes practical advice to navigate the challenges and unlock the personal growth that comes with the job. Key takeaways include: Camp Counseling is Demanding: It's not just about having fun with kids.  It involves significant responsibility, including ensuring camper safety, managing behavior, and handling unexpected situations. The job can be physically demanding, requiring long hours in potentially challenging outdoor conditions.   Hidden Responsibilities:  Beyond the core duties, counselors often find themselves tackling a variety of tasks, from helping kids with basic needs to assisting with camp maintenance. Flexibility and adaptability are essential.Personal Growth Opportunities: While challenging, camp counseling offers valuable opportunities for personal and professional development. Counselors gain skills in leadership, problem-solving, communication, and risk management. They also learn to be resourceful, resilient, and responsible.   7.  Impact on Others: Counselors' actions and attitudes have a ripple effect on campers and fellow staff members. It's crucial to be mindful of how your behavior influences the camp environment and strive to contribute positively to the camp community.   8.  The Rewards Outweigh the Challenges: Despite the demands and challenges, camp counseling is an incredibly rewarding experience. It offers the chance to make a difference in children's lives, build lasting relationships, and gain valuable life skills that extend far beyond the camp setting.    Sources and related content- Links from this episode:Wait...Is This a Cult? - Ceremonies and Traditions at Summer Camp - First Class Counselors #68Camp IS a Real Job! With Kim Aycock - First Class Counsellors #7- E.G.E.L - Ever Growing Ever LearningLevel up your Camp Counselor skills with these resources! Oliver: The Bag GameMatt: Get a Harmonica! Here’s a beginner video!

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/got-the-job-now-what Onboarding and Prioritization - What Sets Real First Class Counselors Apart!This episode of First Class Counselors is your guide to rocking the first step of your next summer at camp. Oliver and Matt break down essential skills for new and returning staff, covering everything from nailing the onboarding process to prioritizing your time and staying resilient when things get tough. Key takeaways include: Onboarding like a pro: We'll equip you with the tools and strategies to navigate paperwork, understand camp culture, and impress your camp director.The power of commitment: Discover why dedicating yourself to the full summer unlocks the richest, most rewarding camp experience.Finding balance: Learn how to manage your energy, set expectations with friends and family, and prioritize your well-being while having a blast.- Links from this episode:Wait...Is This a Cult? - Ceremonies and Traditions at Summer Camp - First Class Counselors #68Camp IS a Real Job! With Kim Aycock - First Class Counsellors #7- E.G.E.L - Ever Growing Ever LearningLevel up your Camp Counselor skills with these resources! Oliver: Secret SantaMatt: For the Queen - https://shop.critrole.com/products/for-the-queen This is free professional development for your counsellors! We would love your feedback. Please leave your comments below, or, send Matt an email! Thank you!

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/staff-training-expect Congratulations! You’re having a wild, wonderful bundle of CAMP!Staff training season is upon us (that is, if you’re listening to this episode in May) and while camp staff around the world are finishing up the school year, camp directors are putting the final touches on staff training. If you’ve never been, or are newer to staff training before it’s this entirely different world, within an entirely different world. It’s school, but way better, and way more tiring. But this is an extremely important time for you to prepare for the wonderful work ahead so this episode is dedicated to not just what to expect at staff training, but Oliver and my pro-tips on how to thrive in staff training. - E.G.E.L - Ever Growing Ever LearningLevel up your Camp Counselor skills with these resources! Oliver: The Learning Pyramid - Stack the learning style of the session with another one to maximize the learningMatt: A staff training fidget to help you stay engaged - A good fidget is one that doesn’t distract you or others from absorbing the material of the session. 1-handed, silent, solo.- Thanks to our sponsor!Ultimate Camp Resource Visit UltimateCampResource.com for 1,000+ free camp games, songs, skits, activities, and more! Follow us on social at fb: ulticamp | IG: ultimatecampresource | TT: ultimatecampresource | YT: ultimatecampresource.   Download a free games e-book here: https://itsacampthing.com/collections/e-books/products/40-camp-games-pdf