Date: July 20-24
This week, the older age group began (9-13 years old) for camp! This meant dealing with a new dynamic of children who are older, have more personality and different social dynamics.
What went well?
While not starting off incredibly positive, one of the camps were short-staffed meaning I was heavily involved with monitoring the kids and supporting the camp. This meant that I tried different techniques and leadership interventions with children who were acting out or being disruptive. This allowed me to try the tips that I was preparing to give to others and actually see feedback in real time if kids were responsive or not.
What could have been done differently?
Since one of the camps had more to deal with while the other one was very chill, I spent most of my brain-power being invested in one camp site over the other. I think this made it so that when I did enter the other camp site, my brain would be less invested just because I didn't have the same connection with the kids and faculty like I did with the other site. I think moving forward, I need to make a greater effort to connect with the faculty at the other site especially when I spend less time there.
What did I learn about myself when working with others?
I think that leading by example is something that I tried to embody this week. Rather than spending a lot of time giving counsellors direct instruction, I led by example as to what kind of leadership I'd like to see. This means speaking up when you see a child is misbehaving rather than waiting for the instructor to correct them first or setting preventative guidelines before transitions and taking control when its helpful.
What did I learn about leadership?
That courage and trying new things is needed. This means that rather than staying comfortable in my role as an observer or participator, taking a step into trying something new and being a more hands-on worker in the camp has helped me make new realizations about what it means to be a leader and how I can apply that to my report.
Hello! I’m an undergraduate music student with a passion for teaching and a growing curiosity about how education systems shape the way we learn music. Last summer, I researched piano pedagogy in the context of China’s entrance exam system—something that blends my love for music with my interest in social structures and policy. If you want to get to know me, find me at the climbing gym, doing CrossFit, or out for a run with my dog. I’m always excited to meet people who would love to discuss education, music/piano, dogs and anything else that you can think of!
Please sign in
If you are a registered user on Laidlaw Scholars Network, please sign in