As I write this, I’m watching the tops of the tallest tulip poplars sway in a balmy breeze. Their unique, heavy blossoms falling to the ground as the first true thunderstorm of the season heads our way from the west. For most schools, the 2020-2021 academic year has ended, concluding an imposing chapter for educators, families, and…pretty much everyone. It’s summer, finally. Growing up in WNC, that meant floating down the Davidson, exploring Pisgah National Forest, camping by the French Broad, and finding waterfalls in DuPont State Forest. It meant trying all of the new ice cream flavors at Dolly’s, visiting family, and going to summer camp.
The humid warmth in the air brings back memories of every summer I ever spent in Transylvania County. Today, there is something especially invigorating about this easterly summer breeze. As the season changes, we are emerging from a period of collective fear and anxiety into one of healing and hope. For the Mountain Roots team, it means that we are in full-swing preparation mode to host the best day camp season yet.
Just because the school year is over, doesn’t mean learning should be.
On a personal note, I feel like one of the luckiest people alive to have grown up in WNC. That is why I am now in the business of facilitating experiences right here in my hometown. Also on a personal note, I believe that kids have had plenty of screen time (this year especially). At Mountain Roots Day Camp, we emphasize green time. This means being outside, with friends, in nature. I suppose in this way, we are also in the business of making memories.
From behind the scenes, “Day Camp preparation mode” has the Mountain Roots team creating and editing activities, discussing staff training, inventorying supplies, buying new activity materials, communicating with guardians, tracking registrations, and adapting safety policies in real time to CDC and state guidelines. Among other things.
This, to say, we leave no stone unturned when it comes to ensuring that every individual child has the best experience imaginable at Day Camp. Daily schedules for each age group deliberately balance activities with elements of movement, art, creativity, music, relaxation, science, and free-time play. There is a weekly-intended theme, which guides the activity development and ensures that every week feels special for multi-week campers.
Experiences and Memories
On June 14th, campers, wide-eyed and ready for anything, will be showing up on Brevard Academy School’s campus. Brevard Academy, in Pisgah Forest, has graciously agreed to serve as the Day Camp venue this year, providing us with ample space for activities and exploration. We look forward to welcoming back our returning campers (some of whom are now among this year’s Day Camp staff) and receiving a whole new crew of kids ready to have some fun!
Mountain Roots will be offering 7 weeks of Camp this summer. The progression of the Mountain Roots Day Camp program allows individuals to participate consecutively from ages 4 to 24. Starting with a half day preschool camp for 4-5 year olds, a full day camp for rising 1st-5th graders, Roots Crew program for middle school students, and staff positions for high school, college, and beyond! This summer will be another extra powerful summer for appreciating the simple joys of life together, exploring, playing, and learning together! For more information about Mountain Roots’ Outdoor Education and Day Camp programs, visit www.MountainRoots.org or email info@mountainroots.org.
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