Things I Learned by Not Going to Summer Camp

Having spent 17 years at summer camp as a camp counsellor, here are some things I missed during my first summer away:

No impromptu dance parties at mealtime

Most people don't wrap up meals with spontaneous dance parties and conga lines. Camp made this a regular occurrence, and I realized how much I missed these fun breaks during my first summer away.

Dim city stars

City stargazing can't compare to the brilliance of camp's night sky. Nothing beats lying on the grass with friends, talking all night and looking for shooting stars.

Lacking emotional support

Summer camp offers a unique environment where emotions run high, and friends are always there for you. I can't think of another place where people are so eager to help and support each other so quickly.??

No need for constant planning

Eight weeks at camp means few plans; a refreshing break from the chaos of everyday life.

The absence of a summer lake

The urge to dive into a cool lake hit me often in the city, but I was in Toronto with no lake in sight.

The challenge of disconnecting

City life makes it hard to detach from your phone. Camp offers a chance to live in the moment, disconnect, and connect with those around you.

Lack of encouragement to step out of your comfort zone

Camp allows you to be as crazy, silly, and creative as you want, with a supportive community pushing you to explore your capabilities. It pushed me to do so many things that I never would have guessed I would be capable of doing!

Pyjamas judgment

At camp, wearing pyjamas all day is normal, but in the city, it's often seen as unusual.

The reality of daily chores

My biggest surprise during the summer was realizing that, without camp, I had to cook, clean, and pay rent. At camp, you take for granted that so much of this is done for you!?

Camp habits don't translate to the real world

Jumping in a lake doesn't count as a shower in the city, but at camp, you can get away with it, especially with biodegradable soap.

Camp time vs. city time

Camp time moves SO fast and SO slowly at the same time.

The magic of camp

Nothing compares to the magic of a summer at camp. I missed it a lot and while I don’t regret moving on, it’s something I’ll never forget from my 17 summers spent in my happy place.?

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