I am up at a groovy summer camp, which I attended as a kid.
We moved a trailer here in mid-spring, the trailer Jeff used to camp in a variety of provincial parks when growing up. It has provided a tremendous opportunity for us to slip up here on weekends, as the drive is only two hours from home. We have placed the trailer by a dining hall, which is convenient for meals, which we sometimes purchase, and bathroom access. There is a lovely pond about a five minute walk from our trailer, which gives far enough away I feel pretty comfortable allowing the boys to run free while close enough we can pop down for a swim. Very fun.
John and Cameron are both in a kids’ program, and I am hanging out with Owen. He, at four months old, is pretty content to squirm on the ground and look at his hands.
The other day John was complaining he was bored; perhaps the lack of technology or television caused him to pause and wonder what to do. And his comment caused me to think, and respond that this place was all about free choice, which, when at school, kids love. School is such a structured environment, so kids embrace 30 minutes of free time like it is gold. Providing a framework seemed to help: you can do what you want here, as long as you are not hurting anyone else, and you are doing it in a peaceful and beautiful environment. There are kids your age, yummy food, two playgrounds, a sandbox, games, art supplies, and we can go swimming. There isn’t easy access to technology, although still a fair bit kicking around.
This camp is free choice. Cool.
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