Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!
Find full show notes and links at: https://www.gocamp.pro/campcode/trainingcamperstobeleaders
Camper Leadership Skills: Strategies for Effective Development
In this episode, the hosts of Camp Code dive into the importance of developing leadership skills in campers. They discuss strategies such as creating a list of desired skills, celebrating mistakes, offering campers choices, and setting examples through staff behavior. The episode also covers how to build leadership skills through specific activities, mentorship programs, and encouraging reflection.
Additionally, Gabrielle and Beth share practical tips, including using creative group projects and peer leadership opportunities, to foster these essential skills in campers.
We hope you love this episode of Camp Code! If you do, please consider subscribing to the show, and leaving us a rating in your Podcast app. It’s SO easy, just head to https://ratethispodcast.com/campcode
-
Best Practice for Leadership Training
From Beth
One of the most effective—and fun—ways to develop leadership skills in campers is through creative group projects. These hands-on initiatives empower older campers to take ownership, plan, and execute something meaningful as a team. Whether it’s organizing a talent show, producing a camp newsletter, creating a mural, or launching an environmental campaign, these projects naturally build key leadership traits: communication, teamwork, problem-solving, initiative, and resilience.
The process begins with choosing a project that requires collaboration and creativity. Campers can take on defined leadership roles—like project manager or creative director—to practice delegation and decision-making. Before kicking things off, short workshops can help teach skills like conflict resolution and effective communication.
Staff play a supportive role, checking in regularly while allowing campers to take the lead. The project culminates in a final presentation, where participants can reflect on what they’ve learned and the roles they thrived in. These debriefs are essential for reinforcing lessons in leadership and self-awareness.
This approach turns leadership training into something campers genuinely look forward to. It blends responsibility with creativity, gives them a chance to shine, and fosters confidence by letting them learn from both their successes and mistakes. When campers get to lead a meaningful project, they walk away with real-world leadership experience—and great camp memories to match.
-
Your Hosts:
-
Thanks to our sponsors…
BowlineHQ
Camp Leaders: Win back your time to what matters most, your campers. Bowline's comprehensive accounting, back-office solutions, and tech-enabled team free up your staff to focus on your mission. Visit bowlinehq.com to learn more and book a free 2-hour financial diagnostic.
UltraCamp
Imagine camp registration software that actually gives you MORE time for what you love - CAMP! With UltraCamp, you can effortlessly track attendance, manage staff, streamline registration, and more. Explore now at ultracampmanagemnent.com/campcode.
