Time to play!

Choosing recreational games and activities for campers is fun. Here are some resources to start your research!

Activities can make or break a camp session 

Remember, 90% of the English learning at our camps happens outside of the classroom! Activities need to be relavent to the campers (age, English level, interest), organized and structured with care, and implement some aspect of the English language. Often, that element comes from the direct play with YOU - the English-only speaking counselor. You must both make efforts to communicate! 

Reaching our 4 Educational Goals require having great activities:

1. Spark the child’s interest in learning the English language
2. Enhance understanding of language (comprehension)
3. Develop speaking skills (elocution)
4. Assist each child in finding their place in the group

Prepare for play!

Expanding and diversifying your activities knowledge base before working at our camps is really helpful, because ...

• each camp location is different
• the weather can change
• each counselor has unique talents, and 
• campers’ interests are varied
• campers' capacities change with age

There are tons of books and websites that explain a variety of different recreational games that are suited for youth of all ages. Check out your local library, book store, or do some online research before coming to camp. Don't wait to be at camp to learn a game, song, or dance! Most site directors expect counselors to be able to share something with the group immediately during Camp Preparation Days. 

Our YouTube channel, Team American Village, includes multiple playlists to help you learn more activities before and during employment.

Big Games

Arts and Crafts 

Quick Games / Team Building

Explaining it to language-learners

Once you know a game, think about how you will explain it to someone who does not understand what you are saying. You're going to have to show what you mean. Here is a quick video to give you some starter ideas:

I hope you'll find these tools useful ... and exciting!  Getting paid to play has it's perks!