We had so many fits and starts over school camp this year due to Covid-19. Finally, after a few tears and 15 minutes late (I bet there are still sleeping bags and undies missing) the buses pulled out and headed for Hanmer.
It is tough for children to face separation anxiety and to realize that they have to overcome the Dragon of sadness, anxiety and separation in order to get to the treasure of the fun on camp, making life memories and being with friends on new adventures. We had a few who needed an extra hug or two, and some parents needed that reassurance too as it is a very big deal to trust your children into someone else's care.
I always smile that the fussy eaters suddenly eat everything on camp, and ask for more, and the children who sit quietly in the background can suddenly become the daredevils and Bravehearts on camp. It is magic to watch the children grow and change. For some it is the first time we have seen them in a new light and it is unbelievable how different some children are when they find their strengths and can shine.
It is always a privilege to visit camp (not too keen on the bunks) and to make the connections with parents and children as they face all of the new experiences and challenges. My lasting impression of every camp I have been on, is the sound of laughter.
I look forward to all the exaggerated accounts of leaping off mountains, traversing a flooded river and fighting off hippos, having all food sources cut off and being made to forage bush tucker and the night all of the adults disappeared after bright lights appeared in the sky, over the forest. mmmmm
