This Soccer themed week may not have gone exactly as we had planned, but the Froggies reminded us that a great camp week isn’t defined by where you are – it’s defined by who you’re with. With Tuesday’s extreme heat and the poor air quality that kept us indoors for much of the rest of the week, our plans changed more than once. While it took a little adjusting at first (and naturally came with lots of questions about when we could head back outside!), the Froggies showed incredible flexibility. Before long, they had embraced each new plan with smiles, enthusiasm, and positive attitudes. Despite spending much of the week indoors, the campers continued to make the very best of every situation, and we couldn’t have been more proud of the resilience they showed.
Our specialists made sure there was never a dull moment! During Sports with Jay, campers stayed active through games involving running, teamwork, and plenty of ball skills. Dance with Ballet got everyone moving with energetic dance games that had campers smiling from start to finish. Over at Racket Rallies with Gopher, the Froggies had the chance to build their tennis skills while learning through fun challenges and games. One of the biggest hits of the week was Recording with Echo, where campers stepped into the spotlight for karaoke, singing, dancing, and cheering one another on. It was wonderful to see so many campers encouraging their friends, celebrating every performance, and building each other’s confidence with enthusiastic applause.
Our unit program this week focused on what we jokingly called “JR CYOA,” giving campers the opportunity to choose activities that matched their interests while continuing to build friendships across the unit. Campers created sizzling soccer ball necklaces, completed soccer-themed activity sheets, and joined a variety of collaborative games with their peers. These flexible activity stations allowed campers to explore, create, and connect while making the most of our indoor spaces.
This week, the Froggies gave us plenty to celebrate. Wednesday gave us Wednesday Warrior, in which Pluto successfully secured her spot in next week’s semi-finals. On Thursday, we wished Claire (F3) a very Happy Birthday! We also want to congratulate Joshua (F2) on earning his 3-Year Tag – thank you for being part of the AVDC family for these past 3 years! Finally, a big congratulations to our Big Chair winners this week: Ethan (F2) and Grayson (F1). Great job, everyone!
A highlight of the week was our indoor Ribbit Recesses, which became an opportunity to bring cabins together through large-group games and shared experiences. Campers mixed with friends from across the Froggies unit while playing circle games like “Doggie, Doggie, Where’s Your Bone?,” encouraging one another, welcoming others into games, and creating new friendships along the way. Music Fest added even more excitement, filling camp with singing, movement, and smiles. Although the weather changed where camp happened, it never changed the energy or sense of community. The Froggies showed that no matter the setting, they can adapt, support one another, and make every day a fun one.
Staff Celebration Moment
This week’s staff spotlight goes to… Minnie! Minnie has an incredible way of making every camper feel seen, safe, and cared for. She balances being playful and silly with being dependable and responsible, creating an environment where campers know they can always count on her. One moment that perfectly captured who she is happened at the end of a long day in the gym. As everyone began winding down, Minnie sat with three campers resting their heads comfortably on her legs so they could relax before heading home. It was such a simple moment, but one that reflected the genuine care she brings to camp every single day. She takes the time to build meaningful relationships with each camper, and her nurturing nature helps make the Froggies feel like a second home.
Caregiver Question of the Week
Q: How are decisions made regarding air quality and indoor programming?
A: We use Air Quality Ontario’s website to monitor their hourly air quality health index ratings. For low risk ratings we continue the programming as normal. We modify programs at moderate risk levels (kids only being outside for half an hour doing an activity with no physical exertion). We move all programming indoors at high and very high risk levels.
