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Leadership Lessons from Summer Camp

It’s time again to sign the kids up for summer camp. It’s the highlight of most kids’ summers—no mom or dad, wearing the same clothes three days in a row and candy every night before bed. What could be better? Last summer when we were at parent pickup, I realized that they are doing some things right that we can use at work.

You Need a Cabin: Cabins are home base. This is the place the campers go back to each night for fun and fellowship. They do skits together and evidently have a lot of inside jokes. There is pride for their cabin and the campers brag when they are recognized as “best cabin” or “winner of Race Day.” They are a team and count on each other for friendship, to excel and have fun. This camaraderie builds commitment, pride and feeling part of something important.

Camp Counselors Matter: Camp counselors are college kids who are the glue to a great summer camp. They are more than just responsible for getting their campers to the events and to pick up the cabin; they are role models and understand that each kid is important and an individual. Camp counselors are trained on how they create a great experience for the campers, not just the schedule and their “to do’s.” They have an incredible combination of leadership, mentoring and fun. My son still quotes the counselors and looks to their example even a year later. And, it’s an honor to be a camp counselor, after all.

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