Season 2, Episode 4
What would it look like to raise your children in a camp setting? Join host Allison Krabill in an engaging discussion where she, alongside our guests, Megan Lynch , Carolyn Harari, and Katrina Dearden, delve into the intricacies of juggling parenthood and camp life.
Unpacking the realities of being parents and camp professionals, the crew brings you personal stories that illustrate the delicate balance between camp duties and parenting. They recount the challenges they've faced, such as lack of childcare facilities and the complexities of transitioning back to 'normal' life post-summer. Fear not, they also highlight the joy of seeing camp life through our children's eyes, and celebrate the support that camp community can provide.
If you're keen to explore the intersection of parenting and camp life and broaden your perspective, this is the pod for you.
Producer EmJ’s takeaways:
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No two parenting experiences and needs are going to be the same. Even if your camp does have a plan, it may not be the best for you. Take the time to think about what you need and listen to yourself.
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The African proverb, "it takes a village" rings true here. I loved hearing about Katrina's chef being a safe space.
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Camp would be a really cool place to grow up. Bonus points to those parents & caretakers.
Allison Note:
I talk openly about having a miscarriage in this episode. It's important for me to talk about. If you find yourself in a similar situation and want someone to talk to, you can email me. I'm here.
Want more community and camaraderie?
Become a member of The Summer Camp Society. TBH at $50/month one good idea a year makes your money back. I bet you get more than two great ideas.
Show Notes
Our Guests
Katrina Dearden
Katrina Dearden graduated from Widener University with a BS in Civil Engineering. She developed and implemented Eagle Island, Inc.’s inaugural year of programming in 2019 with two weeks day camp followed with six weeks of programming in 2021 that included overnight, day & family camps.
She came to Eagle Island from Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, where she directed Rock Hill Camp for five summers. In addition to being a Camp Director, Katrina has held positions at various Girl Scout camps including Assistant Camp Director, Program Director, Waterfront Director, and Unit Leader. Before working full time for the Girl Scouts, Katrina worked as a Program Educator at the Storer Camps Outdoors School (a year-round camp facility) where she focused on outdoor adventure and STEM programming. Katrina has also spent time volunteering as a Girl Scout troop leader.
Carolyn Harari
Carolyn Harari, at age 10, won the all camp talent show with a performance of Sk8ter Boi by Avril Levigne. Carolyn believes batons are critical in relays and there is nothing better than packing for camp. She has experience with day camps, overnight camps, and even running a camp out of your house. Carolyn brought her four week old baby to camp in the summer of 2022 and now is raising a full on camp kid. Carolyn’s background is in early childhood and teaching. When thinking about anything related to camp, she asks “how will this impact the kids?” She loves to dream big and turn those dreams into reality. Currently, Carolyn is the Associate Director at URJ Henry S Jacobs Camp.
Megan Lynch
Megan Lynch is the Assistant Director for Day Camp at Aldersgate Camp and Retreat Center in Rhode Island, where she first served as an International Counselor from Northern Ireland in 2010. Megan has worked in childcare settings for over 15 years. She has two daughters who are excited to be campers. Megan is in the Nerdfighter community which was founded by John and Hank Green and focuses on how to make the world a better place. Megan also enjoys a good cup of tea.
Episode Info
This episode is hosted by Allison Krabill.
The Summer Camp Society Podcast is edited and produced by EmJ Juszczyk.
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