Wait...Is This a Cult? - Ceremonies and Traditions at Summer Camp - First Class Counselors #68

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Find full show notes and links at: https://camphacker.tv/first-class-counsellors/camp-is-a-cult

Summer camp is culty - but in a good way, we swear!

If you are new to summer camp and reading this, you may not get the whole “cult” angle.

It’s a common joke amongst experienced camp staff and directors that camp is essentially a cult. There are many reasons for this, but the main one is how intentional we are with the ceremonies and traditions we have at camp. 

This ranges from as basic as gathering as a camp in the morning to share an inspirational thought, to literal chanting and burning of the camp logo on a lake. Yes, seriously.

Every camp is different, but what makes them the same is that each of them are creating their own immersive “world” for people to live in. These “worlds” have rules, norms, traditions and ceremonies that are integral to helping people feel welcome and wanting to stay a part of it. 

Tune into this episode to hear Oliver and Matt break down:

• An overview of ceremonies and tradition at camp. What are they and Why do camps use and have these?
• How do these translate to camp being “culty”?
• What is your role as a Camp Counselor in this - what happens if you aren’t fully bought in? What if you are?

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E.G.E.L - Ever Growing Ever Learning

Level up your Camp Counselor skills with these resources!

• Oliver: Peak a Who or Magic Wall
• https://ultimatecampresource.com/ice-breakers/name-games/#Magic-wall-or-peak-a-who 
• Matt: Jim Cain Books
• https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jim-Cain/author/B00OBTB3VG?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true-

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Thanks to our sponsor!

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