<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new">Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!</a></p><p>Find full show notes and links at: <a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/are-we-disciplining-kids-enough'>https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/are-we-disciplining-kids-enough</a></p><p>-</p><h1>Reframing Discipline as a Teaching Tool for Every Counselor</h1><p>Join Matt and Dane as they redefine what it means to lead through discipline in a summer camp setting. Dane shares his twenty-one years of experience working with diverse populations to explain why discipline should be viewed as a teaching tool rather than a punitive measure. The conversation explores how counselors can set themselves up for success by building intentional rela`tionships through play and shared interests before any rules are ever broken. </p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li>Focus on Connection Before Correction. Establishing a solid relationship through shared interests creates the necessary trust for discipline to be effective later on. If the first meaningful conversation a counselor has with a child is a correction, the opportunity for a positive influence is already lost.</li><li>Frame Rules with Positive Language and the Why. Instead of listing restrictions like don&apos;t jump on the bed, counselors should use positive framing such as beds are for sleeping. Explaining the purpose behind a boundary helps campers understand that rules exist for their safety and the respect of the community rather than just to limit their fun.</li></ul><p>-</p><h1>E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:</h1><p>Dane: Games that Fit into your Pocket, <a href='https://www.letsplayuno.com/'>UNO</a></p><p>Matt: <a href='https://darntough.com/'>Darn Tough Socks</a>, or <a href='https://greatsox.com/'>Great Sox </a></p><p>-</p><h1>Sponsors:</h1><p><b>Ultracamp</b><a href='mailto:dsavoury@campamymolson.com?'> </a><b><br/></b>Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today&apos;s camp counselor and tomorrow&apos;s camp leader. Learn more at <a href='https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass'>https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass</a></p><p>-</p><h1>Host Links:</h1><ul><li><a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'>Matt Wilfrid</a>, Executive Producer of Podcasting at <a href='https://gocamp.pro/'>Go Camp Pro</a></li><li><a href='https://www.facebook.com/TheFP'>Dane Savoury</a>, Director of Operations, <a href='https://campamymolson.com/index.php'>Camp Amy Molson</a>. <a href='mailto:dsavoury@campamymolson.com?'>Contact Email.</a></li></ul><p><br/></p>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new"&gt;Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Find full show notes and links at: &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/are-we-disciplining-kids-enough'&gt;https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/are-we-disciplining-kids-enough&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Reframing Discipline as a Teaching Tool for Every Counselor&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join Matt and Dane as they redefine what it means to lead through discipline in a summer camp setting. Dane shares his twenty-one years of experience working with diverse populations to explain why discipline should be viewed as a teaching tool rather than a punitive measure. The conversation explores how counselors can set themselves up for success by building intentional rela`tionships through play and shared interests before any rules are ever broken. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Key Takeaways:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Focus on Connection Before Correction. Establishing a solid relationship through shared interests creates the necessary trust for discipline to be effective later on. If the first meaningful conversation a counselor has with a child is a correction, the opportunity for a positive influence is already lost.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Frame Rules with Positive Language and the Why. Instead of listing restrictions like don&amp;apos;t jump on the bed, counselors should use positive framing such as beds are for sleeping. Explaining the purpose behind a boundary helps campers understand that rules exist for their safety and the respect of the community rather than just to limit their fun.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;Dane: Games that Fit into your Pocket, &lt;a href='https://www.letsplayuno.com/'&gt;UNO&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Matt: &lt;a href='https://darntough.com/'&gt;Darn Tough Socks&lt;/a&gt;, or &lt;a href='https://greatsox.com/'&gt;Great Sox &lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Sponsors:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Ultracamp&lt;/b&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:dsavoury@campamymolson.com?'&gt; &lt;/a&gt;&lt;b&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/b&gt;Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today&amp;apos;s camp counselor and tomorrow&amp;apos;s camp leader. Learn more at &lt;a href='https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass'&gt;https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Host Links:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'&gt;Matt Wilfrid&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Producer of Podcasting at &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/'&gt;Go Camp Pro&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.facebook.com/TheFP'&gt;Dane Savoury&lt;/a&gt;, Director of Operations, &lt;a href='https://campamymolson.com/index.php'&gt;Camp Amy Molson&lt;/a&gt;. &lt;a href='mailto:dsavoury@campamymolson.com?'&gt;Contact Email.&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</description>

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/are-we-disciplining-kids-enough - Reframing Discipline as a Teaching Tool for Every CounselorJoin Matt and Dane as they redefine what it means to lead through discipline in a summer camp setting. Dane shares his twenty-one years of experience working with diverse populations to explain why discipline should be viewed as a teaching tool rather than a punitive measur...

Are we Disciplining Kids Enough? - with Dane Savoury - First Class Counselors #82

<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new">Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!</a></p><p>Find full show notes and links at: <a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/using-stats-to-master-counseling'>https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/using-stats-to-master-counseling</a></p><p>-</p><h1>How You Can Become A Data-Driven Leader</h1><p>This episode dives into the numbers behind great counseling, from safety ratios to camper retention. By treating camp as a measurable social business, staff can identify their strengths, improve their safety efficiency, and track their personal growth throughout the summer. They discuss how to turn qualitative experiences into quantitative success to help every staff member become a first class counselor.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li>The Behavioral Closing Rate: Professionalism is measured by how effectively a counselor can resolve behavioral issues and communicate them through proper reporting channels.</li><li>Conversions and Friendships: Success can be measured through camper return rates and the intentional fostering of friendships that last beyond the summer.</li><li>Personal Special Powers: Every first class counselor has a unique magic factor, whether it is a specific skill like ceramics or a jack of all trades ability to facilitate any program on the fly.</li></ul><h1>E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:</h1><p>Oliver: Sorting Hat-Type Ceremony</p><p>Matt: G.M.I.C (Great Moments In Camping!) </p><h1>Sponsors:</h1><p><b>Ultracamp<br/></b>Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today&apos;s camp counselor and tomorrow&apos;s camp leader. Learn more at <a href='https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass'>https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass</a></p><h1>Host Links:</h1><ul><li><a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'>Matt Wilfrid</a>, Executive Producer of Podcasting at <a href='https://gocamp.pro/'>Go Camp Pro</a></li><li><a href='mailto:oliver.gregan.scd@gmail.com'>Oliver Gregan</a>, Executive Director at <a href='http://campwinona.org/'>YMCA Camp Winona</a></li></ul>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new"&gt;Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Find full show notes and links at: &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/using-stats-to-master-counseling'&gt;https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/using-stats-to-master-counseling&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;How You Can Become A Data-Driven Leader&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode dives into the numbers behind great counseling, from safety ratios to camper retention. By treating camp as a measurable social business, staff can identify their strengths, improve their safety efficiency, and track their personal growth throughout the summer. They discuss how to turn qualitative experiences into quantitative success to help every staff member become a first class counselor.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Key Takeaways:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;The Behavioral Closing Rate: Professionalism is measured by how effectively a counselor can resolve behavioral issues and communicate them through proper reporting channels.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Conversions and Friendships: Success can be measured through camper return rates and the intentional fostering of friendships that last beyond the summer.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Personal Special Powers: Every first class counselor has a unique magic factor, whether it is a specific skill like ceramics or a jack of all trades ability to facilitate any program on the fly.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;h1&gt;E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;Oliver: Sorting Hat-Type Ceremony&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Matt: G.M.I.C (Great Moments In Camping!) &lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Sponsors:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;b&gt;Ultracamp&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/b&gt;Camp is about changing lives, not chasing paperwork. Ultracamp builds tools that make camp smoother for today&amp;apos;s camp counselor and tomorrow&amp;apos;s camp leader. Learn more at &lt;a href='https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass'&gt;https://ultracampmanagement.com/firstclass&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Host Links:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'&gt;Matt Wilfrid&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Producer of Podcasting at &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/'&gt;Go Camp Pro&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:oliver.gregan.scd@gmail.com'&gt;Oliver Gregan&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Director at &lt;a href='http://campwinona.org/'&gt;YMCA Camp Winona&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</description>

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/using-stats-to-master-counseling - How You Can Become A Data-Driven LeaderThis episode dives into the numbers behind great counseling, from safety ratios to camper retention. By treating camp as a measurable social business, staff can identify their strengths, improve their safety efficiency, and track their personal growth throughout the summer. They discuss how t...

Using Stats To Master Counseling - First Class Counselors #81

<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new">Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!</a></p><p>Find full show notes and links at: <a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/should-we-send-them-home'>https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/should-we-send-them-home</a></p><p>-</p><h1>Finding Connection When You Are Frustrated</h1><p>We’ve all been there. It’s week four, the coffee machine is broken, you are trying to get the cabin to the flagpole on time, and that camper is dragging their feet, making fart noises, and holding the broom upside down during cleanup. You don&apos;t necessarily want them sent home, but they are absolutely testing your patience. In this &quot;high empathy&quot; episode, Oliver and Matt validate those feelings of frustration while offering a roadmap to get back on track. They discuss the difference between behavior that is annoying versus behavior that requires a director&apos;s intervention, and how checking your own ego can de-escalate the situation.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li>Identifying Your Triggers: Frustration often stems from specific stressors like lateness, perceived &quot;weaponized incompetence&quot; (like using a push broom incorrectly), or a camper&apos;s disinterest in planned activities. Recognizing these triggers is the first step to patience.</li><li>Conformity vs. Leadership: Matt challenges counselors to ask why a behavior is frustrating. Is it disrupting the camp experience, or does it simply make you feel like you are losing control or &quot;looking bad&quot; as a leader?</li><li>Connection Over Correction: You don&apos;t have to like every camper, but you do need to find a connection. Oliver shares a story about using Magic: The Gathering cards to bridge the gap with a disconnected camper.</li></ul><p>-</p><h1>E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:</h1><p>Oliver: Survival Tag, The Game</p><p>Matt: Find a water bottle that you love drinking from. </p><p>-</p><h1>Sponsors:</h1><p>AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at <a href='https://amskier.com'>amskier.com</a>.</p><p>-</p><h1>Host Links:</h1><ul><li><a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'>Matt Wilfrid</a>, Executive Producer of Podcasting at <a href='https://gocamp.pro/'>Go Camp Pro</a></li><li><a href='mailto:oliver.gregan.scd@gmail.com'>Oliver Gregan</a>, Executive Director at <a href='http://campwinona.org/'>YMCA Camp Winona</a></li></ul>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new"&gt;Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Find full show notes and links at: &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/should-we-send-them-home'&gt;https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/should-we-send-them-home&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Finding Connection When You Are Frustrated&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;We’ve all been there. It’s week four, the coffee machine is broken, you are trying to get the cabin to the flagpole on time, and that camper is dragging their feet, making fart noises, and holding the broom upside down during cleanup. You don&amp;apos;t necessarily want them sent home, but they are absolutely testing your patience. In this &amp;quot;high empathy&amp;quot; episode, Oliver and Matt validate those feelings of frustration while offering a roadmap to get back on track. They discuss the difference between behavior that is annoying versus behavior that requires a director&amp;apos;s intervention, and how checking your own ego can de-escalate the situation.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Key Takeaways:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Identifying Your Triggers: Frustration often stems from specific stressors like lateness, perceived &amp;quot;weaponized incompetence&amp;quot; (like using a push broom incorrectly), or a camper&amp;apos;s disinterest in planned activities. Recognizing these triggers is the first step to patience.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Conformity vs. Leadership: Matt challenges counselors to ask why a behavior is frustrating. Is it disrupting the camp experience, or does it simply make you feel like you are losing control or &amp;quot;looking bad&amp;quot; as a leader?&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Connection Over Correction: You don&amp;apos;t have to like every camper, but you do need to find a connection. Oliver shares a story about using Magic: The Gathering cards to bridge the gap with a disconnected camper.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;Oliver: Survival Tag, The Game&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Matt: Find a water bottle that you love drinking from. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Sponsors:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at &lt;a href='https://amskier.com'&gt;amskier.com&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Host Links:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'&gt;Matt Wilfrid&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Producer of Podcasting at &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/'&gt;Go Camp Pro&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:oliver.gregan.scd@gmail.com'&gt;Oliver Gregan&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Director at &lt;a href='http://campwinona.org/'&gt;YMCA Camp Winona&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</description>

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/should-we-send-them-home - Finding Connection When You Are FrustratedWe’ve all been there. It’s week four, the coffee machine is broken, you are trying to get the cabin to the flagpole on time, and that camper is dragging their feet, making fart noises, and holding the broom upside down during cleanup. You don't necessarily want them sent home, but they are absolut...

Should We Send Them Home? - First Class Counselors #80

<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new">Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!</a></p><p>Find full show notes and links at: <a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/meaningful-and-masterful-facilitation'>https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/meaningful-and-masterful-facilitation</a></p><p>-</p><h1><b>Stop Talking, Start Leading: The Counselor&apos;s Guide to Facilitation</b></h1><p>Join Oliver and Matt as they delve into the art and science of facilitation—the core skill needed to run first-class activities, whether it&apos;s team building, archery, or a simple transition. This episode breaks down the critical stages of leading a group, from the moment they arrive to the final debrief. Learn how to master first impressions, use language effectively to manage attention, utilize props strategically, and employ powerful debriefing techniques that move beyond simply having fun to ensuring campers find real meaning and application in their experiences.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><ul><li>Master the First Impression: Your initial interaction sets the tone. Use confidence, learn names (and address people by name), have well-rehearsed safety guidelines (like flight attendants), and offer a commitment to the group for the activity.</li><li>Start with Play to Engage: Use quick, low-explanation, high-energy games (like &quot;Everybody&apos;s It&quot;) immediately to get participants moving and focused on you as the leader. Use creative instructions to organize groups, such as the &quot;Chicken Wing Circle.&quot;</li><li>Debriefing is Transference of Learning: The purpose of debriefing is to help participants understand the significance of their experience and transfer those skills (community, communication, teamwork) to the non-camp world. Use the What, So What, Now What structure.</li></ul><p>-</p><h1>E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:</h1><p>Oliver: AI music generator <a href='https://suno.com/'>Suno</a></p><p>Matt: <a href='https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/actions/how-make-seed-bomb'>Seed Bombs</a></p><p>-</p><h1>Sponsors:</h1><p>AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at <a href='https://amskier.com'>https://amskier.com</a></p><p>-</p><h1>Host Links:</h1><ul><li><a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'>Matt Wilfrid</a>, Executive Producer of Podcasting at <a href='https://gocamp.pro/'>Go Camp Pro</a></li><li><a href='mailto:oliver.gregan.scd@gmail.com'>Oliver Gregan</a>, Executive Director at <a href='http://campwinona.org/'>YMCA Camp Winona</a></li></ul>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new"&gt;Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Find full show notes and links at: &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/meaningful-and-masterful-facilitation'&gt;https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/meaningful-and-masterful-facilitation&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;&lt;b&gt;Stop Talking, Start Leading: The Counselor&amp;apos;s Guide to Facilitation&lt;/b&gt;&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join Oliver and Matt as they delve into the art and science of facilitation—the core skill needed to run first-class activities, whether it&amp;apos;s team building, archery, or a simple transition. This episode breaks down the critical stages of leading a group, from the moment they arrive to the final debrief. Learn how to master first impressions, use language effectively to manage attention, utilize props strategically, and employ powerful debriefing techniques that move beyond simply having fun to ensuring campers find real meaning and application in their experiences.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Key Takeaways:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;Master the First Impression: Your initial interaction sets the tone. Use confidence, learn names (and address people by name), have well-rehearsed safety guidelines (like flight attendants), and offer a commitment to the group for the activity.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Start with Play to Engage: Use quick, low-explanation, high-energy games (like &amp;quot;Everybody&amp;apos;s It&amp;quot;) immediately to get participants moving and focused on you as the leader. Use creative instructions to organize groups, such as the &amp;quot;Chicken Wing Circle.&amp;quot;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;Debriefing is Transference of Learning: The purpose of debriefing is to help participants understand the significance of their experience and transfer those skills (community, communication, teamwork) to the non-camp world. Use the What, So What, Now What structure.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;Oliver: AI music generator &lt;a href='https://suno.com/'&gt;Suno&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Matt: &lt;a href='https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/actions/how-make-seed-bomb'&gt;Seed Bombs&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Sponsors:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at &lt;a href='https://amskier.com'&gt;https://amskier.com&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Host Links:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'&gt;Matt Wilfrid&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Producer of Podcasting at &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/'&gt;Go Camp Pro&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:oliver.gregan.scd@gmail.com'&gt;Oliver Gregan&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Director at &lt;a href='http://campwinona.org/'&gt;YMCA Camp Winona&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</description>

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/meaningful-and-masterful-facilitation - Stop Talking, Start Leading: The Counselor's Guide to FacilitationJoin Oliver and Matt as they delve into the art and science of facilitation—the core skill needed to run first-class activities, whether it's team building, archery, or a simple transition. This episode breaks down the critical stages of leading a group, from t...

Meaningful and Masterful Facilitation - First Class Counselors #79

<p><a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new">Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!</a></p><p>Find full show notes and links at: <a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/building-a-culture-of-belonging'>https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/building-a-culture-of-belonging</a></p><p>-</p><h1>The Counselor&apos;s Guide to Universal Design, Behavior as Communication, and True Inclusion<br/><br/></h1><p>Join Oliver, Matt, and special guest Lisa Drennan as they dive deep into creating truly inclusive camp environments. Lisa emphasizes that belonging is the new inclusion. The discussion moves beyond simple access to practical, real-world strategies counselors can use daily, including adopting Universal Design principles, proactively using visual schedules and positive expectations, and understanding that all behavior is communication. Counselors will learn how to focus on camper strengths, manage transitions (like at the waterfront), and advocate for systemic changes to make camp a welcoming space for <em>everyone</em>—staff and campers alike. </p><p>This episode includes:</p><ul><li><b>Mindset Shift</b>: Belonging Over Inclusion. The goal isn&apos;t just access or inclusion; it&apos;s ensuring every camper feels they belong. Start by focusing on a camper&apos;s strengths rather than their deficits or diagnoses.</li><li><b>Proactive Communication &amp; Structure:</b> Utilize visual schedules and positive expectation lists daily (and for specific activities like swim time) to reduce anxiety for all campers, especially the neurodivergent. Frame all rules positively (e.g., &quot;Use kind words&quot; instead of &quot;Don&apos;t swear&quot;).</li><li><b>Behavior as Communication</b>: When challenging behavior occurs, the first step is to find the &quot;why.&quot; Behavior signals an unmet need (physiological, environmental, or social). Preventative measures like clear visuals and giving control back to the camper (e.g., transition countdowns) are key.</li></ul><p>-</p><h1>E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning</h1><p>Oliver: Using <a href='https://graveiens.com/blog/how-to-make-flashcards-with-paper-a-step-by-step-guide/'>flashcards!</a></p><p>Matt: Small Bags of Lego for Fidgetting</p><p>Lisa: Movies and Shows that are inclusive around disabilities: <a href='https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6315640/'>Atypical</a>, <a href='https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4364194/'>The Peanut Butter Falcon</a>, <a href='https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5012320/'>Out of My Mind</a></p><p>-</p><h1>Sponsors:</h1><p>AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at <a href='https://amskier.com'>amskier.com</a>.</p><p>-</p><h1>Host Links</h1><ul><li><a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'>Matt Wilfrid</a>, Executive Producer of Podcasting at <a href='https://gocamp.pro/'>Go Camp Pro</a></li><li><a href='mailto:oliver.gregan.scd@gmail.com'>Oliver Gregan</a>, Executive Director at <a href='http://campwinona.org/'>YMCA Camp Winona</a></li><li><a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-drennan-merge/'>Lisa Drennan</a>, Founder of <a href='https://www.mergeconsulting.org/'>Merge Consulting</a></li></ul>

<description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;a target="_blank" href="https://www.buzzsprout.com/915352/fan_mail/new"&gt;Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us!&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Find full show notes and links at: &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/building-a-culture-of-belonging'&gt;https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/building-a-culture-of-belonging&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;The Counselor&amp;apos;s Guide to Universal Design, Behavior as Communication, and True Inclusion&lt;br/&gt;&lt;br/&gt;&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;Join Oliver, Matt, and special guest Lisa Drennan as they dive deep into creating truly inclusive camp environments. Lisa emphasizes that belonging is the new inclusion. The discussion moves beyond simple access to practical, real-world strategies counselors can use daily, including adopting Universal Design principles, proactively using visual schedules and positive expectations, and understanding that all behavior is communication. Counselors will learn how to focus on camper strengths, manage transitions (like at the waterfront), and advocate for systemic changes to make camp a welcoming space for &lt;em&gt;everyone&lt;/em&gt;—staff and campers alike. &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode includes:&lt;/p&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Mindset Shift&lt;/b&gt;: Belonging Over Inclusion. The goal isn&amp;apos;t just access or inclusion; it&amp;apos;s ensuring every camper feels they belong. Start by focusing on a camper&amp;apos;s strengths rather than their deficits or diagnoses.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Proactive Communication &amp;amp; Structure:&lt;/b&gt; Utilize visual schedules and positive expectation lists daily (and for specific activities like swim time) to reduce anxiety for all campers, especially the neurodivergent. Frame all rules positively (e.g., &amp;quot;Use kind words&amp;quot; instead of &amp;quot;Don&amp;apos;t swear&amp;quot;).&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;b&gt;Behavior as Communication&lt;/b&gt;: When challenging behavior occurs, the first step is to find the &amp;quot;why.&amp;quot; Behavior signals an unmet need (physiological, environmental, or social). Preventative measures like clear visuals and giving control back to the camper (e.g., transition countdowns) are key.&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;E.G.E.L – Ever Growing, Ever Learning&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;Oliver: Using &lt;a href='https://graveiens.com/blog/how-to-make-flashcards-with-paper-a-step-by-step-guide/'&gt;flashcards!&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Matt: Small Bags of Lego for Fidgetting&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Lisa: Movies and Shows that are inclusive around disabilities: &lt;a href='https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6315640/'&gt;Atypical&lt;/a&gt;, &lt;a href='https://www.imdb.com/title/tt4364194/'&gt;The Peanut Butter Falcon&lt;/a&gt;, &lt;a href='https://www.imdb.com/title/tt5012320/'&gt;Out of My Mind&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Sponsors:&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;p&gt;AMSkier is a leading insurance and strategic partner for many of the finest camps in America. AMSkier partners with camps to provide public relations, legal, medical, behavior support and more - Experience the AMSkier difference. Learn more at &lt;a href='https://amskier.com'&gt;amskier.com&lt;/a&gt;.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;-&lt;/p&gt;&lt;h1&gt;Host Links&lt;/h1&gt;&lt;ul&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:matt@gocamp.pro'&gt;Matt Wilfrid&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Producer of Podcasting at &lt;a href='https://gocamp.pro/'&gt;Go Camp Pro&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='mailto:oliver.gregan.scd@gmail.com'&gt;Oliver Gregan&lt;/a&gt;, Executive Director at &lt;a href='http://campwinona.org/'&gt;YMCA Camp Winona&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;li&gt;&lt;a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-drennan-merge/'&gt;Lisa Drennan&lt;/a&gt;, Founder of &lt;a href='https://www.mergeconsulting.org/'&gt;Merge Consulting&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;&lt;/ul&gt;</description>

Have some feedback? A topic suggestion? Text us! Find full show notes and links at: https://gocamp.pro/first-class-counselors-pod/building-a-culture-of-belonging - The Counselor's Guide to Universal Design, Behavior as Communication, and True Inclusion  Join Oliver, Matt, and special guest Lisa Drennan as they dive deep into creating truly inclusive camp environments. Lisa emphasizes that belonging is the new inclusion. The discussion moves beyond simple access to practical, real-world strate...

Building a Culture of Belonging for Every Camper with Lisa Drennan - First Class Counselors #78

Camp counselors have the most important job at summer camp. Period. A great camp staff will have kids wanting to come back to camp year after year. First Class Counsellors is here to make great camp staff. Each week, we’ll cover practical and accessible tips that will level up your camp counselor skills. Our two hosts, Oliver Gregan, Summer and Families Camp Director at YMCA Camp Jewell and Matt Honsberger from Go Camp Pro are excited to be able to provide this resource to camp counselors.

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