CAMP COUNSELOR COURSE FOR 13 YEARS AND OLDER
Watch the video and prepare for the test
Watch the video and prepare for the test
International Riding Academy
Hippology Society
“Enlightened Equestrian Education”
Special thank you to Camp Little Trotter for use of your videos.
© Copyright 2016, International Riding Academy
Camp Counselor Program
This program is specifically designed for those who wish to participate in the International Pony Camp program as leaders, mentors and counselors, helping make pony camp a positive and wonderful place for children.
Certification
Will be approved upon completion of the written exam
* The camp counselor program is open to people 13 years and older.
** Course credits are earned for completion of quiz and 40 hours of volunteering or working within a camp setting.
CAMP COUNSELOR TRAINING
Camp counselor training and experience will help create positive experiences for camp children.
Camp counselors are role models, teach youth, resolve conflicts, manage time, manage resources, keep children safe and are responsible as well as educational for teaching and reinforcing horsemanship. He or she acknowledges a child’s abilities and limitations, all the while helping the child progress by doing and in a safe environment with limits and careful supervision.
The counselor’s job is very important: he is not a ‘babysitter’, but is rather a ‘leader’. Children look up to the counselors, like a big brother, or sister, and others view them as teachers, or parent, or guardian. But most of all, a counselor should be a trusted friend who is caring, fun and comforting.
Being a camp counselor is not always easy, as one has to listen, guide and advise. Many children or situations are new and children need help adjusting. Each needs encouragement and care to make the camp a positive experience. More often children may forget the riding theory, but remember the experience, help and little things more so.
Building Horsemanship and Life Skills Objectives:
POSITIVE – practice skills, conquer fears and appreciate individualism to reinforce personal value and self-image.
OUTDOORS – develop an appreciation of a natural environment and interconnect with nature and horses.
NEEDS – learn how to live and work within a small group of peers, co-operating and making decisions together.
YOUTH – a chance to meet new acquaintances, improve communication, develop meaningful friendships and trust with other like-minded children and also with horses.
CONFIDENCE – develop independence and self-assurance.
ADVENTURE – have new experiences and challenges that are not found in usual, daily life.
MASTERY – learn new skills and theory in a non-threatening environment that is individualized and built on a rate of progress, improving physical skills and fitness.
PLEASURE – opportunity to have fun, ride and enjoy horses.
Describing a Camp Counselor:
One should be at least thirteen years of age, demonstrate emotional maturity and stability to make decisions, accept criticism, be confident, be competent, be respectful, neat and clean in attitude and appearance. The counselor needs to be interested in the camp itself, its traditions, its role, its objectives and its people. He or she should have the ability to sense and assume responsibility without being told to. Having leadership experience is a must and previous camp experience is an asset. The counselor knows the camp’s structure, procedures, policies, and rules, as well as his or her personal responsibilities. It is strongly suggested that he or she is at least one riding level higher than that of the children in the camp or group (there should be one leader who has a coach certificate).
Working with children:
Understanding a child’s background history will help understand their reactions and actions. Be aware of everyone’s welfare and adjustments needed in between situations. Make sure everyone knows the rules, safety and manners, but be sure to follow these rules yourself! Be friendly to all of the children and try to spend time with each one. Be reasonable and firm, trying not to nag or boss. Help children in being polite, prompt and understanding the camp’s structure and rules. Respect everyone’s personality and ideas, points of view, expressions, talents and creativity. Keep all conversation positive, light and favorable. Know where each child is all the time. Stay with the children you are responsible for. Develop good habits of neatness, cleanliness and health. Make each one feel like they belong and take part with the children and enjoy their fun with them setting a good example. Most of all, keep everyone as safe as you can.
Working with other counselors:
Co-operate, be cheerful, unselfish and assist others when needed, but do not expect them to wait on you. Keep an open mind, and keep conversation positive. Respect each other’s space and privacy. Be loyal to one another. Attend all meetings, training sessions and take an active part in the success of the camp, making suggestions and evaluations.
Duties and Responsibilities:
A camp counselor is responsible for welcoming children, showing them their sleeping quarters (if overnight), showing them around the camp’s facilities, informing them on structure and rules, making sure everyone gets to meals and also keeps the areas clean. A counselor should assist in cleaning as well. He or she is also there to answer any questions or concerns from the children. Watch out for unhappiness and homesickness. Encourage (without excessive urging) to participate in activities of all sorts to help the children feel like they belong and keep them interested in activities. Watch the children are healthy, eating well, practice safety and get enough sleep.
For overnight camps, make sure to follow a regime of tidiness. Every day make sure the beds are made, suitcases in place, wet garments cared for, and areas are cared for with everything in its place. Pick up litter and dispose of garbage properly, increasing pride in the camp.
Have a flashlight handy for overnight camping. Have a watch to know the time and know the schedule. Wear a name tag. Set an example for others to follow and demonstrate activities, but do not ‘steal the show’ or ‘limelight’ away from someone else.
Camp Rules:
1. The counselor should sleep next to children responsible for and should never leave them unattended.
2. Lights out means quiet and that no one is allowed to leave the camp. In emergency, the counselor needs to be awakened. No child should be left alone or travel alone.
3. Knock before entering. Do not slam doors.
4. Respect property of others. Keep hands off other’s personal items.
5. Keep areas clean and orderly. Proper disposable cans need to be set up and used accordingly.
6. Keep language clean and polite. Never ridicule.
7. Go to all activities. No one is left behind. There needs to be a special area for anyone feeling ill.
8. In the eating area (mess hall), no hats on, chew with a closed mouth, use utensils properly, keep elbows off the table, say please when asking for food or items, try to eat a little of everything, is not too noisy, and no talking with a full mouth.
9. Be on time and wear proper attire.
10. No pranking, no running or making loud noises, and be cautious in possibly dangerous situations (working with horses).
Camp Counseling Tips:
1. Help care for everyone’s property.
2. Watch friendships and remarks within the group and make sure no one gets hurt or left out.
3. Watch for fatigue, take breaks as a group and be sure to get enough sleep yourself. Go to bed on time!
4. Set an example in demonstrating everything from talking to eating, and riding. Curb noise and confusion.
5. Be positive in all discussion. Limit negative words like, “no”, “don’t”, “Can’t” and so on. Use positive expressions instead and redirect children into positive behavior.
6. Be active but not strained or tense. Know how to relax yourself and have a good time.
7. Help campers get acquainted with one another as soon as possible. This will help create a friendly, group environment.
8. Try to encourage the children to take part in guiding and planning the camp activities. Give everyone something to do. Take turns leading and teaching. Keep things open and able to change. Be prepared for rainy day changes. Make plans.
9. Get to know each of the children individually.
10. Sing songs, play games and have fun in an educated manner. Use the K.I.S.S. method - Keep is sweet and simple.
Golden Rules:
Dealing with Tots (6 years & under):
This is a difficult group where children are just learning rules and how to work in a group setting. Some are too active and lack manners, while others are shy, quiet and may have a hard time getting involved. Physically, tots have little muscle and ability to handle horses on their own. They need the most help. They like a lot of activity and things can get messy really fast. Socially, they are very friendly and aware of opinions. Boys and girls may start to separate. They are very focused on themselves, but also are starting to have some empathy to others. Sharing can be a problem, so a small group is best. Because they are still family orientated, the camp counselor is extremely important for being social, positive, active and the central figure of the group. Avoid punishment and criticism. They may have a lot of fear and need time adjusting, start slow, focus on one thing at a time, but always show approval and use games where everyone wins. Academically, they like to be read to, do activities without worrying about the end result, do instead of just talking about doing, do short activities and learn things like sorting and categorizing things (horse colors, tack, etc). They are full of imagination that can sometimes run wild!
Dealing with Primary (7-9) and Junior Children (10-12):
Physically these children have better hand eye co-ordination and muscle control than tots. They like to be very active and more independent. They should be able to start controlling the horse by themselves. However, they may have limits on what they think they can and cannot do already. This has to be dealt with slowly and in a positive manner. Avoid competition. Vary activities and keep them hands-on. They love to help out. Socially, they are loyal and like to be in groups with friends. They like to make others happy and are firm in rules, fairness and equality. They may still show self-centering, but can easily share, take turns and like to have freedom. Also, they tend to start negotiating, so have them help make up tasks, rules and other small activities. Emotionally, they want to feel valued and important, like a grown-up and may be moody. They look to adults for guidance but may not hesitate to question authority and test the limits. They will need quiet correction one on one. They need to identify success, abilities, without playing favorites and give positive feedback. Academically, have them do some planning, create new ideas, develop personal interests, and make useful products. Their imagination needs to be encouraged, as with beliefs and exploration, Set goals and help them develop skills.
Dealing with Teens:
Physically there are many bodily changes that may affect balance, co-ordination and self-image. Physical appearance is very important so avoid activities that could cause embarrassment. There is a growing ranging between genders. It is always best to avoid competition. Always be patient and supportive. Socially, teens need peer recognition and role models. They want to conform to group, therefore it is vital to have a positive group setting. Provide opportunity for mixing and engaging. Help them to conform, grow and figure things out. Emotionally teen compare themselves to others and have the belief that they are always ‘on-stage’ and are easily embarrassed, as they are very concerned with acceptance, but want privacy and independence from adults. Avoid competition and comparisons. Performance should be individually based on how well they have done before. Try not to publically commend or criticize them, make it more private, allowing them to practice independence and help them finish what they start. Encourage them to help younger children. Academically they are concerned with equality, fairness and justice. They have abstract thinking, understanding cause and effect in-depth and long-term. They can be challenging and make assumptions, encourage them to predict outcomes and involve them in decision making projects.
Dealing with Difficult Children:
Keep children involved and an active part of the environment to keep them from getting bored and getting into trouble. Riding is a pleasure and a privilege but one must follow the rules to do so. Help each child feel like they are an integral part of the camp, have friends who support him, get attention, get the job or task done well and properly with recognition for effort and finishing. If there is a problem, redirect with a different task or activity.
Dealing with Accidents:
While having standard first aid training is a value to a camp counselor, all accidents must be dealt with properly and reported to the leader. Remember to stay calm, think it through, and don’t put yourself in danger. Get help and never touch blood or body fluids without protection. Do not move a hurt child unless he is in immediate danger.
Aside from general safety, the biggest problems when working outdoors are frostbite, hypothermia or sunburn and heat exhaustion or stroke. Dehydration and muscle cramping may happen easily. Learn the signs and symptoms of each one and how to deal with them. Take measures to see that they are not likely to happen in the first place.
If there is a cut, apply pressure.
If someone is having a seizure, make sure they are safe from harm. Put something under their head. Never put anything in the mouth.
If someone is going into shock, keep them warm and get help immediately.
If someone loses a tooth, pad the gum, let them sit until the bleeding is stopped and put the tooth in a safe place for them to take home.
Coaching:
Coaching without credentials can be an exhausting effort in trying to communicate and educate proper horsemanship. Not to mention that there can be a serious liability without a coach certificate! International Riding Academy coaches are trained with masters and experts in the field of horsemanship, riding to medium classical levels and also trained in great detail equine theory. Coaches have also gone through a business course, learning how to effectively speak, communicate and how to handle different situations that are easily encountered when dealing with people. Coaches have learned about the different types of learning styles and the different types of riders. Coaches studied different problem areas and have put the expertise to practice previously. Nothing can replace experience! Top it off with a positive attitude and academy coaches can be unstoppable in providing decent and positive education for young riders and also in providing successful business relations. Academy coaches have also acquired current first aid training, which is an absolute must for insurance purposes.
Pony Camp Ceremonies:
There are many different types of ceremonies that camps partake in. Some are serious and others are light, humorous and fun. They help create dignity, respect and a sense of reverence. They may be beautiful, may create a close bond or give recognition. They may help to inspire and prepare for an event. They should be explained beforehand; everyone participates or watches, and be short in order to be effective. Some ceremonies are flag raising, flag lowering (and folding), riding with the flag, camp-fire lighting, candle lighting, silent (closing), burying treasure (for next year), digging treasure, reciting tag lines or mottos, reflect on the past, tell stories, give honor to those who accomplish special things (awards, honorable mention or even just for joining. The ideas are endless. Regardless, the ceremony needs to have integrity, be well rehearsed, spoken clearly, be meaningful and thankful.
Pony Camp Counselor’s Checklist:
Before:
__ Am I dressed neat, proper, respectful and inviting?
__ Are my areas and items in order, neat, clean and inviting?
__ Do I know my children’s information: names, ages, medical information?
__ Am I prepared for the activities?
__ Are my horses prepped and ready?
Arrival:
__ Did I greet each child, smile and shake their hand, while introducing myself?
__ Did I make sure each child felt welcomed and got to know the a little?
After:
__ Did I see that each child put away their belongings, help them set up and show them around the facilities?
__ Did I tell them the rules and safety?
__ Did I tell the children about future events and activities?
__ Did I get the children to introduce themselves to each other to get acquainted?
__ Did I ask each child about what they wanted to accomplish at camp and what they like to do?
__ Do I see any signs of boredom, sickness or homesickness and did I take steps to deal with it?
__ Did I find something that each child does well and commend them for it?
__ Did I make sure everyone took part, was active, courteous and considerate of others?
__ Did I make sure everyone is respectful and keeping the areas and items clean, and tidy?
__ Is there anything else I missed or how can I improve?
To develop more resources, check out other camps, programs and activities. There are many appropriate songs, poems and stories that can be said during ceremonies and before bed or closing. Have fun with it!
Each camp counselor is able to receive certification for helping out as a counselor during one camp or one academic year, for a total of 40 hours. The leader of the camp will have to contact the academy with the counselor’s details. Each person needs to be a current member. Awards can also be ordered.
It is time to write the exam. Remember to send in the exam to the office when you are done and it will be graded. Good luck! And have fun in Pony Camp!
Hippology Society
“Enlightened Equestrian Education”
Special thank you to Camp Little Trotter for use of your videos.
© Copyright 2016, International Riding Academy
Camp Counselor Program
This program is specifically designed for those who wish to participate in the International Pony Camp program as leaders, mentors and counselors, helping make pony camp a positive and wonderful place for children.
Certification
Will be approved upon completion of the written exam
* The camp counselor program is open to people 13 years and older.
** Course credits are earned for completion of quiz and 40 hours of volunteering or working within a camp setting.
CAMP COUNSELOR TRAINING
Camp counselor training and experience will help create positive experiences for camp children.
Camp counselors are role models, teach youth, resolve conflicts, manage time, manage resources, keep children safe and are responsible as well as educational for teaching and reinforcing horsemanship. He or she acknowledges a child’s abilities and limitations, all the while helping the child progress by doing and in a safe environment with limits and careful supervision.
The counselor’s job is very important: he is not a ‘babysitter’, but is rather a ‘leader’. Children look up to the counselors, like a big brother, or sister, and others view them as teachers, or parent, or guardian. But most of all, a counselor should be a trusted friend who is caring, fun and comforting.
Being a camp counselor is not always easy, as one has to listen, guide and advise. Many children or situations are new and children need help adjusting. Each needs encouragement and care to make the camp a positive experience. More often children may forget the riding theory, but remember the experience, help and little things more so.
Building Horsemanship and Life Skills Objectives:
POSITIVE – practice skills, conquer fears and appreciate individualism to reinforce personal value and self-image.
OUTDOORS – develop an appreciation of a natural environment and interconnect with nature and horses.
NEEDS – learn how to live and work within a small group of peers, co-operating and making decisions together.
YOUTH – a chance to meet new acquaintances, improve communication, develop meaningful friendships and trust with other like-minded children and also with horses.
CONFIDENCE – develop independence and self-assurance.
ADVENTURE – have new experiences and challenges that are not found in usual, daily life.
MASTERY – learn new skills and theory in a non-threatening environment that is individualized and built on a rate of progress, improving physical skills and fitness.
PLEASURE – opportunity to have fun, ride and enjoy horses.
Describing a Camp Counselor:
One should be at least thirteen years of age, demonstrate emotional maturity and stability to make decisions, accept criticism, be confident, be competent, be respectful, neat and clean in attitude and appearance. The counselor needs to be interested in the camp itself, its traditions, its role, its objectives and its people. He or she should have the ability to sense and assume responsibility without being told to. Having leadership experience is a must and previous camp experience is an asset. The counselor knows the camp’s structure, procedures, policies, and rules, as well as his or her personal responsibilities. It is strongly suggested that he or she is at least one riding level higher than that of the children in the camp or group (there should be one leader who has a coach certificate).
Working with children:
Understanding a child’s background history will help understand their reactions and actions. Be aware of everyone’s welfare and adjustments needed in between situations. Make sure everyone knows the rules, safety and manners, but be sure to follow these rules yourself! Be friendly to all of the children and try to spend time with each one. Be reasonable and firm, trying not to nag or boss. Help children in being polite, prompt and understanding the camp’s structure and rules. Respect everyone’s personality and ideas, points of view, expressions, talents and creativity. Keep all conversation positive, light and favorable. Know where each child is all the time. Stay with the children you are responsible for. Develop good habits of neatness, cleanliness and health. Make each one feel like they belong and take part with the children and enjoy their fun with them setting a good example. Most of all, keep everyone as safe as you can.
Working with other counselors:
Co-operate, be cheerful, unselfish and assist others when needed, but do not expect them to wait on you. Keep an open mind, and keep conversation positive. Respect each other’s space and privacy. Be loyal to one another. Attend all meetings, training sessions and take an active part in the success of the camp, making suggestions and evaluations.
Duties and Responsibilities:
A camp counselor is responsible for welcoming children, showing them their sleeping quarters (if overnight), showing them around the camp’s facilities, informing them on structure and rules, making sure everyone gets to meals and also keeps the areas clean. A counselor should assist in cleaning as well. He or she is also there to answer any questions or concerns from the children. Watch out for unhappiness and homesickness. Encourage (without excessive urging) to participate in activities of all sorts to help the children feel like they belong and keep them interested in activities. Watch the children are healthy, eating well, practice safety and get enough sleep.
For overnight camps, make sure to follow a regime of tidiness. Every day make sure the beds are made, suitcases in place, wet garments cared for, and areas are cared for with everything in its place. Pick up litter and dispose of garbage properly, increasing pride in the camp.
Have a flashlight handy for overnight camping. Have a watch to know the time and know the schedule. Wear a name tag. Set an example for others to follow and demonstrate activities, but do not ‘steal the show’ or ‘limelight’ away from someone else.
Camp Rules:
1. The counselor should sleep next to children responsible for and should never leave them unattended.
2. Lights out means quiet and that no one is allowed to leave the camp. In emergency, the counselor needs to be awakened. No child should be left alone or travel alone.
3. Knock before entering. Do not slam doors.
4. Respect property of others. Keep hands off other’s personal items.
5. Keep areas clean and orderly. Proper disposable cans need to be set up and used accordingly.
6. Keep language clean and polite. Never ridicule.
7. Go to all activities. No one is left behind. There needs to be a special area for anyone feeling ill.
8. In the eating area (mess hall), no hats on, chew with a closed mouth, use utensils properly, keep elbows off the table, say please when asking for food or items, try to eat a little of everything, is not too noisy, and no talking with a full mouth.
9. Be on time and wear proper attire.
10. No pranking, no running or making loud noises, and be cautious in possibly dangerous situations (working with horses).
Camp Counseling Tips:
1. Help care for everyone’s property.
2. Watch friendships and remarks within the group and make sure no one gets hurt or left out.
3. Watch for fatigue, take breaks as a group and be sure to get enough sleep yourself. Go to bed on time!
4. Set an example in demonstrating everything from talking to eating, and riding. Curb noise and confusion.
5. Be positive in all discussion. Limit negative words like, “no”, “don’t”, “Can’t” and so on. Use positive expressions instead and redirect children into positive behavior.
6. Be active but not strained or tense. Know how to relax yourself and have a good time.
7. Help campers get acquainted with one another as soon as possible. This will help create a friendly, group environment.
8. Try to encourage the children to take part in guiding and planning the camp activities. Give everyone something to do. Take turns leading and teaching. Keep things open and able to change. Be prepared for rainy day changes. Make plans.
9. Get to know each of the children individually.
10. Sing songs, play games and have fun in an educated manner. Use the K.I.S.S. method - Keep is sweet and simple.
Golden Rules:
- Abide by the rules and schedules.
- Set an example for others.
- Be your best, but not the ‘best’.
- Assume responsibility and leadership.
- Enthusiasm helps accomplish great things.
- If asked for help, reply, “I’d be glad to.”
Dealing with Tots (6 years & under):
This is a difficult group where children are just learning rules and how to work in a group setting. Some are too active and lack manners, while others are shy, quiet and may have a hard time getting involved. Physically, tots have little muscle and ability to handle horses on their own. They need the most help. They like a lot of activity and things can get messy really fast. Socially, they are very friendly and aware of opinions. Boys and girls may start to separate. They are very focused on themselves, but also are starting to have some empathy to others. Sharing can be a problem, so a small group is best. Because they are still family orientated, the camp counselor is extremely important for being social, positive, active and the central figure of the group. Avoid punishment and criticism. They may have a lot of fear and need time adjusting, start slow, focus on one thing at a time, but always show approval and use games where everyone wins. Academically, they like to be read to, do activities without worrying about the end result, do instead of just talking about doing, do short activities and learn things like sorting and categorizing things (horse colors, tack, etc). They are full of imagination that can sometimes run wild!
Dealing with Primary (7-9) and Junior Children (10-12):
Physically these children have better hand eye co-ordination and muscle control than tots. They like to be very active and more independent. They should be able to start controlling the horse by themselves. However, they may have limits on what they think they can and cannot do already. This has to be dealt with slowly and in a positive manner. Avoid competition. Vary activities and keep them hands-on. They love to help out. Socially, they are loyal and like to be in groups with friends. They like to make others happy and are firm in rules, fairness and equality. They may still show self-centering, but can easily share, take turns and like to have freedom. Also, they tend to start negotiating, so have them help make up tasks, rules and other small activities. Emotionally, they want to feel valued and important, like a grown-up and may be moody. They look to adults for guidance but may not hesitate to question authority and test the limits. They will need quiet correction one on one. They need to identify success, abilities, without playing favorites and give positive feedback. Academically, have them do some planning, create new ideas, develop personal interests, and make useful products. Their imagination needs to be encouraged, as with beliefs and exploration, Set goals and help them develop skills.
Dealing with Teens:
Physically there are many bodily changes that may affect balance, co-ordination and self-image. Physical appearance is very important so avoid activities that could cause embarrassment. There is a growing ranging between genders. It is always best to avoid competition. Always be patient and supportive. Socially, teens need peer recognition and role models. They want to conform to group, therefore it is vital to have a positive group setting. Provide opportunity for mixing and engaging. Help them to conform, grow and figure things out. Emotionally teen compare themselves to others and have the belief that they are always ‘on-stage’ and are easily embarrassed, as they are very concerned with acceptance, but want privacy and independence from adults. Avoid competition and comparisons. Performance should be individually based on how well they have done before. Try not to publically commend or criticize them, make it more private, allowing them to practice independence and help them finish what they start. Encourage them to help younger children. Academically they are concerned with equality, fairness and justice. They have abstract thinking, understanding cause and effect in-depth and long-term. They can be challenging and make assumptions, encourage them to predict outcomes and involve them in decision making projects.
Dealing with Difficult Children:
Keep children involved and an active part of the environment to keep them from getting bored and getting into trouble. Riding is a pleasure and a privilege but one must follow the rules to do so. Help each child feel like they are an integral part of the camp, have friends who support him, get attention, get the job or task done well and properly with recognition for effort and finishing. If there is a problem, redirect with a different task or activity.
Dealing with Accidents:
While having standard first aid training is a value to a camp counselor, all accidents must be dealt with properly and reported to the leader. Remember to stay calm, think it through, and don’t put yourself in danger. Get help and never touch blood or body fluids without protection. Do not move a hurt child unless he is in immediate danger.
Aside from general safety, the biggest problems when working outdoors are frostbite, hypothermia or sunburn and heat exhaustion or stroke. Dehydration and muscle cramping may happen easily. Learn the signs and symptoms of each one and how to deal with them. Take measures to see that they are not likely to happen in the first place.
If there is a cut, apply pressure.
If someone is having a seizure, make sure they are safe from harm. Put something under their head. Never put anything in the mouth.
If someone is going into shock, keep them warm and get help immediately.
If someone loses a tooth, pad the gum, let them sit until the bleeding is stopped and put the tooth in a safe place for them to take home.
Coaching:
Coaching without credentials can be an exhausting effort in trying to communicate and educate proper horsemanship. Not to mention that there can be a serious liability without a coach certificate! International Riding Academy coaches are trained with masters and experts in the field of horsemanship, riding to medium classical levels and also trained in great detail equine theory. Coaches have also gone through a business course, learning how to effectively speak, communicate and how to handle different situations that are easily encountered when dealing with people. Coaches have learned about the different types of learning styles and the different types of riders. Coaches studied different problem areas and have put the expertise to practice previously. Nothing can replace experience! Top it off with a positive attitude and academy coaches can be unstoppable in providing decent and positive education for young riders and also in providing successful business relations. Academy coaches have also acquired current first aid training, which is an absolute must for insurance purposes.
Pony Camp Ceremonies:
There are many different types of ceremonies that camps partake in. Some are serious and others are light, humorous and fun. They help create dignity, respect and a sense of reverence. They may be beautiful, may create a close bond or give recognition. They may help to inspire and prepare for an event. They should be explained beforehand; everyone participates or watches, and be short in order to be effective. Some ceremonies are flag raising, flag lowering (and folding), riding with the flag, camp-fire lighting, candle lighting, silent (closing), burying treasure (for next year), digging treasure, reciting tag lines or mottos, reflect on the past, tell stories, give honor to those who accomplish special things (awards, honorable mention or even just for joining. The ideas are endless. Regardless, the ceremony needs to have integrity, be well rehearsed, spoken clearly, be meaningful and thankful.
Pony Camp Counselor’s Checklist:
Before:
__ Am I dressed neat, proper, respectful and inviting?
__ Are my areas and items in order, neat, clean and inviting?
__ Do I know my children’s information: names, ages, medical information?
__ Am I prepared for the activities?
__ Are my horses prepped and ready?
Arrival:
__ Did I greet each child, smile and shake their hand, while introducing myself?
__ Did I make sure each child felt welcomed and got to know the a little?
After:
__ Did I see that each child put away their belongings, help them set up and show them around the facilities?
__ Did I tell them the rules and safety?
__ Did I tell the children about future events and activities?
__ Did I get the children to introduce themselves to each other to get acquainted?
__ Did I ask each child about what they wanted to accomplish at camp and what they like to do?
__ Do I see any signs of boredom, sickness or homesickness and did I take steps to deal with it?
__ Did I find something that each child does well and commend them for it?
__ Did I make sure everyone took part, was active, courteous and considerate of others?
__ Did I make sure everyone is respectful and keeping the areas and items clean, and tidy?
__ Is there anything else I missed or how can I improve?
To develop more resources, check out other camps, programs and activities. There are many appropriate songs, poems and stories that can be said during ceremonies and before bed or closing. Have fun with it!
Each camp counselor is able to receive certification for helping out as a counselor during one camp or one academic year, for a total of 40 hours. The leader of the camp will have to contact the academy with the counselor’s details. Each person needs to be a current member. Awards can also be ordered.
It is time to write the exam. Remember to send in the exam to the office when you are done and it will be graded. Good luck! And have fun in Pony Camp!
CAMP COUNSELOR
WRITTEN EXAM
© 2014 INTERNATIONAL RIDING ACADEMY
Directions:
Print the test form and fill it in. Remember to include the last name of the top, which exam of which it is the Camp Counselor exam, and also the date. Print your name, and on the left hand side, fill in the dots according to your student number.
Read each question carefully and fill in the corresponding dot to that question’s number. There are 10 true or false questions and 10 multiple choice questions. Check your answers carefully. When you are done the exam, you can either mail it into the office, or scan it, or take a picture of it, and email it to the office.
True or false: (T= True or F= False)
1. Camp counselors are just like babysitters.
2. A camp counselor needs to be at least 13 years of age.
3. Camp counselors should wear a name tag.
4. Part of the counselor’s job is to not partake in activities.
5. Watch for signs of frostbite or heat exhaustion.
6. It is a good idea to get to know each child.
7. A little prank could be fun in the camp.
8. Be your best, but not the best.
9. If asked for help, refer the child to the leader.
10. There is no need to compliment each child for something he or she has done well.
Multiple choice:
11. Which group of children are the easiest to embarrass?
A) Teens
B) Juniors
C) Primaries
D) Tots
12. Which group of children need the most help?
A) Teens
B) Juniors
C) Primaries
D) Tots
13. Which group of children are on average the most active?
A) Teens and Adults
B) Just teens
C) Primaries and Juniors
D) Tots
14. Which group of children have the hardest time sharing?
A) Teens
B) Juniors
C) Primaries
D) Tots
15. What should you do if a child loses a tooth?
A) Throw it in the garbage
B) Call the parents immediately
C) Keep the tooth for the child to take home
D) Ignore it
16. In the event of an accident, what should you do?
A) Keep going on with the camp itinerary
B) Report it to the leader
C) Call the police
D) Ignore it
17. What is the mess hall?
A) Manure pile
B) Barn or stable
C) Riding arena
D) Eating area
18. If the children are suffering from fatigue?
A) Take a break to rest
B) Let the children nap
C) Set an earlier bed time
D) Any of the above
19. What is the K.I.S.S. method?
A) Uses chocolate as treats
B) Simplifies things the best possible for understanding
C) Is used for homesick children to make them feel better
D) None of the above
20. Which phrase would be best said in a camp situation?
A) Don’t jump around
B) Try to not jump around
C) Please, don’t jump around
D) Let’s try to stand still
STOP!
You are now finished the final exam. Thank-you
WRITTEN EXAM
© 2014 INTERNATIONAL RIDING ACADEMY
Directions:
Print the test form and fill it in. Remember to include the last name of the top, which exam of which it is the Camp Counselor exam, and also the date. Print your name, and on the left hand side, fill in the dots according to your student number.
Read each question carefully and fill in the corresponding dot to that question’s number. There are 10 true or false questions and 10 multiple choice questions. Check your answers carefully. When you are done the exam, you can either mail it into the office, or scan it, or take a picture of it, and email it to the office.
True or false: (T= True or F= False)
1. Camp counselors are just like babysitters.
2. A camp counselor needs to be at least 13 years of age.
3. Camp counselors should wear a name tag.
4. Part of the counselor’s job is to not partake in activities.
5. Watch for signs of frostbite or heat exhaustion.
6. It is a good idea to get to know each child.
7. A little prank could be fun in the camp.
8. Be your best, but not the best.
9. If asked for help, refer the child to the leader.
10. There is no need to compliment each child for something he or she has done well.
Multiple choice:
11. Which group of children are the easiest to embarrass?
A) Teens
B) Juniors
C) Primaries
D) Tots
12. Which group of children need the most help?
A) Teens
B) Juniors
C) Primaries
D) Tots
13. Which group of children are on average the most active?
A) Teens and Adults
B) Just teens
C) Primaries and Juniors
D) Tots
14. Which group of children have the hardest time sharing?
A) Teens
B) Juniors
C) Primaries
D) Tots
15. What should you do if a child loses a tooth?
A) Throw it in the garbage
B) Call the parents immediately
C) Keep the tooth for the child to take home
D) Ignore it
16. In the event of an accident, what should you do?
A) Keep going on with the camp itinerary
B) Report it to the leader
C) Call the police
D) Ignore it
17. What is the mess hall?
A) Manure pile
B) Barn or stable
C) Riding arena
D) Eating area
18. If the children are suffering from fatigue?
A) Take a break to rest
B) Let the children nap
C) Set an earlier bed time
D) Any of the above
19. What is the K.I.S.S. method?
A) Uses chocolate as treats
B) Simplifies things the best possible for understanding
C) Is used for homesick children to make them feel better
D) None of the above
20. Which phrase would be best said in a camp situation?
A) Don’t jump around
B) Try to not jump around
C) Please, don’t jump around
D) Let’s try to stand still
STOP!
You are now finished the final exam. Thank-you