Category: News

As I watch my budding tweens navigate middle school life, I’ve been ruminating about “confidence” as a character trait.  After countless chats with inspiring parent friends (village you know who you are!), I’ve been thinking about the hoops we must jump through and the various balancing acts we do to help our children feel confident.  I’m not talking about “bulldozing” so our kids don’t feel discomfort, and I’m also not talking about “everyone gets a trophy.”  I’m talking about how hard it is to find the right combination of challenges and opportunities to help our children feel capable and strong.  

The feeling of capability is a foundational building block for everything that comes with growing up. Think about those early moments… learning to walk, learning to meet needs with new words, learning to use a fork—and the moments that come later… going on a school bus, making your first scrambled egg, staying home by yourself for the first time…. All of these moments help our children build confidence and a sense that they are very much “able.” 

All that being said, from our kid’s perspective, the world right now is full of more opportunities for rejection and failure than there seem to be for building capability, especially as they age.  Trying out for teams they may get cut from, auditioning for plays they may not get a part in, being one of the last picked for a team during recess, being excluded from friend groups because of something they had no control over…. The list is endless.  

And the funnel of opportunities for building confidence and a sense of capability keeps narrowing. By 6th grade, if your child hasn’t already found their “track,” it seems virtually impossible for them to try something new.  I mean, can someone truly begin gymnastics or touch football, at 11? What do you do if the track they are on isn’t quite right for them, or if they are falling behind their peers in performance or ability? 

We try hard to help keep our kid’s spirits up with conversations around “growth mindset” and other simple tropes like “practice makes perfect,”  yet it can still feel like there is a leaking hole in the confidence cup we are trying to fill.  

Here’s where Camp can help.  A quality summer camp experience is all about building strong and confident humans.  At Everwood, Camp is specifically designed to be a place where campers can try new things, EVEN IF THEY HAVEN’T DONE THEM BEFORE.  Getting to try something for the first time in an environment where no one expects you to know how to do it, is a rare opportunity in our growing children’s world. 

At Everwood, there are no expectations someone will be perfect at it the first time.  And our campers are surrounded by peers who are experiencing new things the same way. Taking these kinds of risks feels safe, and encouragement from happy counselors and specialists feels valuable.  At Everwood, our children develop a sense of confidence and capability without being under our wing, while we are crossing our fingers that everything goes right.  Nothing can compare with the moment our children decide to DO something they thought they couldn’t WITHOUT our help.  

In a world where kids face constant pressure to perform and conform, Everwood offers something truly special—a place where trying is celebrated, growth is the goal, and confidence blossoms naturally. It’s not about being the best or catching up to peers; it’s about discovering new strengths in a supportive, judgment-free environment. When children experience success on their own terms—whether it’s hitting a bullseye, paddling across the lake, or dancing on stage—they realize they are more capable than they ever imagined. That spark of confidence, ignited at camp, follows them home, reminding them that they can tackle life’s challenges with resilience and self-belief.

“Fun” is one of the world’s most overused words. 

While one person may use it to describe a life changing event like a wedding, another may use it to describe the cool hoodie they just bought online.  

Teachers try all the time to make learning “fun,” but for many of our kids… especially as they get older, it’s the kind of fun that feels like playing a board game in a cage. 

Coaches try to make skill development “fun,” but for many kids, the pressure of performance or  screaming sideline parents, or an aggressive opposing coach can shift the experience from “fun” to most certainly “NOT fun.”

Clubs and after-school activities may be “fun”, but they are short in duration and always wedged in between other responsibilities resulting in a limited opportunity to build relationships/connections.

Most parents work to make family time “fun,” but this kind of fun may only complete one piece of a child’s developing ego.  As parents we know that our job isn’t just to make today fun, but to build heathy and capable humans who can thrive in the world without us.  If home is the only place kids have fun, there will be a problem. 

As a camp professionals we are in the business of “fun” and I’m on a mission to better describe/define the kind of “fun” we have here at Camp. 

So…When I think of the kind of “fun” we have at Camp I think of….

• Rolling laughter with friends that seems to continue indefinitely.
• Dancing like no one is watching with other people who, not only are watching but are dancing the same way.
• Playing with inspirational role models who are genuinely excited to play with you.
• Having autonomy in decision making and support in problem solving leading to independence and a clearer sense of self (having confidence feels FUN!)
• Trying things you always wanted to try and trying things you never even thought about before (tug’o’ war in Jell-o anyone?) 
• Surprising yourself with new passions and interests (I didn’t think I’d like that but I DO!).
• Feeling capable to do things you never thought you could do (build a shelf in woodworking, climb a mountain, dance on a stage)
• Freedom to be lighthearted without pressure of performance… for extended periods of time…. like hours, days even weeks.
• Being surrounded by people who root for you, and who are ALL-IN for your success.
• Participating in creative and compelling ways to fill in the downtime.
• Feeling like a smile on your face is well received and mirrored by those around you (not in a creepy way).
• Seeing all stakeholders want to participate in the fun the same way.  Leaders get messy, wear costumes and experience the genuine joy other participants do.

This is core memory making fun.

This is the kind of fun that our kids will tell their kids and grandkids about.  

At Everwood, our community protects this kind of fun with everything thing we are.  And while it can’t always be sunshine and rainbows, we structure supports for all our community members to ensure that hard moments are met with compassion and empathy.  This kind of human social/emotional safety net means that facing challenges will mean positive growth… and guess what… growing in positive ways feels… (you guessed it..) FUN! 

In this sometimes not-so-fun grown-up world, we can still give our kids what their childhood is entitled to. 

Our kids deserve to have this kind of fun. Our kids deserve Camp.

Let’s face it: growing up today is a whole different ballgame. In his book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt dives into why so many kids and teens are dealing with skyrocketing anxiety and depression. From the pressure cooker of academics to the loss of good old-fashioned free play, kids are often left feeling overwhelmed and disconnected. Luckily, there’s a place that flips the script—Everwood Day Camp.

Here, kids can take a breather, rediscover joy, and grow into their best selves in a way that feels natural and fun. Let’s talk about why Everwood is exactly what kids need right now.

A Place to Build Confidence Without Fear
One of Haidt’s biggest takeaways? Overprotecting kids can backfire, keeping them from building resilience. At Everwood, we strike the perfect balance between support and independence. Campers get to try new things, push past their comfort zones, and feel the thrill of accomplishment—all with a safety net of caring staff who’ve got their backs.

Whether it’s tackling a climbing wall, learning a new skill (e.g., archery, stand-up-paddleboarding, etc), or working as a team to pull off a group challenge, kids walk away feeling proud of what they’ve done. And those lessons? They stick.

Play, Pure and Simple
Kids don’t get enough unstructured play anymore. Haidt points out how crucial free play is for creativity and problem-solving, and that’s something Everwood takes seriously (in the most fun way possible).

From pickup soccer games to arts-and-crafts sessions where imagination runs wild, play is built into everything we do.  No screens, dedicated time for play—just the kind of good times that remind kids what it means to simply *be a kid*.

Real Friendships, Not Just Follows
Haidt talks about how social media leaves kids feeling lonelier, even when they’re “connected” online. At Everwood, we go back to basics: face-to-face connections, shared adventures, and lots of laughs.

Campers form bonds that are deeper than likes or snaps—they’re built on real moments, whether it’s a campfire singalong or teaming up to win the camp Olympics.

Boosting Mental Health, One Happy Camper at a Time
Everwood doesn’t just focus on physical activities; we’re all about emotional well-being too. With group discussions, and an inclusive culture that celebrates everyone, campers learn to handle their emotions and build resilience.

The mix of structured activities and high-energy fun gives kids a chance to breathe, reset, and just enjoy being themselves.

Learning Grit the Fun Way
At Everwood, kids discover that trying (and trying again) is where the magic happens. Whether it’s aiming for a bullseye in archery or nailing a new dance move, every effort is celebrated.

It’s about more than winning—it’s about growing a mindset that says, “I can do hard things,” which is something they’ll carry with them long after summer ends.

Let’s Get Outside!
Too many kids spend their days glued to screens, but nature has a way of working wonders. At Everwood, we’re surrounded by beautiful woodlands and a 350 acre lake, where campers can hike, kayak, and explore to their heart’s content. It’s a chance to unplug, breathe fresh air, and feel connected to the world around them.

A Team That Truly Cares
What makes Everwood special isn’t just the activities—it’s the people. Our counselors and staff are the heart of camp, bringing kindness, patience, and all-out enthusiasm to everything they do. They see every camper as an individual and make sure each child feels included, supported, and celebrated.

The Bottom Line
In a world that often feels too fast, too stressful, and too focused on screens, Everwood Day Camp is a breath of fresh air. It’s where kids can laugh, learn, and grow into confident, happy humans.

So, if you’re looking for a summer experience that’s more than just fun—one that truly helps your child thrive—Everwood Day Camp is the place to be. Let them play, explore, and shine. It’s the antidote to stress, the joy of childhood, and the start of something unforgettable.

Parenting. It’s a wild and wonderful ride full of big feelings, hard moments, miraculous joy, and bursting pride. As parents, we are constantly seeking experiences for our children that align with our values, led by creative people passionate about childhood. From sports teams to after-school classes, play-dates to vacations, parenting involves a constant coordination of moments we hope will lead our children into the adults they will become.  

All that considered, the hard truth of parenting is that we are in much less control than we want to be. Our children are part of an imperfect world that is growing and changing faster than most of us can keep up with. There are times when our parenting choices feel more reactive than proactive and despite all efforts, time just keeps moving forward. 

So what can we do? What choices can we make for our children that help them build self-esteem and independence, resilience, and relationships that will help them grow into happy healthy humans? Isn’t that what we all wish for them? 

To me the answer is simple… let them grow up at Everwood. 

The Everwood Day Camp experience is so much more than fun and recreation. It’s a program designed to be a road map for the social and emotional foundations our children need to take them beyond where they are today. Here are just some of the features of our map…

PROGRAM PROGRESSION: From 4 to 15, Everwood campers engage in dynamic program options that are formulated intentionally around their developmental needs. The Everwood Day Camp program builds and changes as campers get older including increased opportunities for independent choice, autonomy and responsibility, and leadership. With that, the Everwood experience is designed to be place where children can return year-after-year and grow up with us. 

SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL MENTORSHIP: Through every step they are led by role models and mentors (our stellar camp staff) and coached through uncomfortable moments that other programs (even our schools) can overlook. We hold children accountable for their behaviors, help them problem solve, and celebrate their achievements.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURE and to try NEW THINGS! 72 Acres of picturesque, traditional New England summer camp on the shores of a glistening 350 acre lake. Ropes course, archery, boating, sports, performing and creative arts, science, yoga, nature… and MORE! Taking safe risks at Everwood can help children feel more confident and brave, resilient and proud and can help them realize that they CAN.

FRIENDSHIP FOUNDATIONS: According to psychologist Christine Carter, author of Raising Happiness, “a person’s happiness is best predicted by the breadth and depth of their social connections- their ties to other people. Camp gives kids a wonderfully rich opportunity to extend both the breadth and depth of their relationships.” Camp friends can truly be the best friends in a child’s life, thanks to the foundation of shared experiences and goals.

COMMUNITY: Strong communities are critical for our children because they are an important source of social connection and foster a sense of belonging. With traditions and values focused on growing great humans, Everwood is a community where we work to ensure that every one of our members feels empowered, valued, and supported.

Save yourself the stress of waiting and wondering what your kids will do next summer. Complete your enrollment to save your spot today….and rest assured that this gift you are giving them will last a lifetime. 

What a year!

Although I wrote about the Phases of Emotional Response to the pandemic last year (https://www.educationalconsultingpc.com/phases-of-emotional-response), it was difficult to anticipate the significance of the collective anxiety and malaise we would all be feeling mid-way through 2021. This past year has been traumatic on so many levels. So many people are coping with the effects of chronic unmitigated stress that has accumulated over time.  It has left us weary, if not completely exhausted.

This year has been especially challenging for kids, teens, and young adults who are naturally in the developmental process of becoming interdependent individuals. They are figuring out who they are and what kinds of relationships they want to have outside of the family unit. Yet, in this year, as they are growing and changing, they have been faced with a reality that is based surrounded by fear, anxiety, and social isolation. Every decision and action has been met with a degree of mortality that young people are not supposed to think about. If I visit with friends or go to school, will I get sick? If I socialize without a mask, will I bring illness into my home and put others at risk? Even small decisions carry risk, and with risk comes an underpinning of fear and anxiety. As humans, we are not made for the level of chronic stress we have experienced this year. And for young people, who do not have the same breadth of life experience as adults, this year feels like it will go on without end leaving many with a powerful sense of bleakness.

My concern is that schools will push curriculum demands onto vulnerable young people in order to meet some arbitrary guidelines of where they think kids need to be academically by September. Instead, educators should be looking to realign curriculum and, in concert with families, help young people with age-appropriate developmental tasks in social and emotional areas.

It is incumbent on adults to help restore a sense of joy for young people and the feelings of wonder, love, and happiness that we all strive for throughout our lives. So much joy has been lost this past year and it is important to recapture that feeling as we heal from the past year.

Find ways to notice moments of joy each day. Look for the small things— flowers that are blooming, a trip to the beach, sitting with friends, a moonlit walk, or your favorite foods. Appreciating the little things can lead to renewed joy.

We need to give kids room to play this summer. Kids need to be with others in ways that are effortless and they need to be with other people who make them laugh and feel unburdened. This will be the best way to rekindle joy. Camps and summer programs can offer so much of this in safe and organized ways with staff that are ready to help kids form connections, learn and explore through play.

Schoolwork will be waiting for kids in the Fall. But for the summer, the focus needs to be on healing our collective trauma. Connection is the cure for the havoc caused by social isolation this past year. Doing something fun with people we like, will help to rekindle joy for our kids and for ourselves.

Let us all take time to heal from the very difficult year and seek joy where ever possible.

Melinda Macht-Greenberg, PhD is a Clinical, Developmental, School and Camp Psychologist offering consultation to parents, community leaders and business owners, individual and family therapy, and educational advising.  Learn more about her work at www.educationalconsultingpc.com