Rediscover Summer Camp with Michael Thompson on The Intentional Parent
Episode 14 : TIP: The Intentional Parent
Episode Synopsis
The Intentional Parent opens up the studio this week to talk with Mike Thompson, the director of Camp Chippewa, about the lessons and advantages of sending kids to a sleep away camp during the summer.
Though parents sometimes feel apprehensive about time apart from their kids (just as kids are skittish about new experiences), sleep away camps can help socialize and add independence to growing minds. We talked about some of the dynamics of this summer rite of passage.
Guest Bio
A former camper, graduated counselor and, now, director of Camp Chippewa, Mike Thompson has been focused on the formative experience of camp since 1981. With a discerning eye for talent and a dedication to helping form better men of tomorrow, Mike has been a key contributor of many life-lessons for campers for a solid generation.
Episode Breakdown
00:01 Introduction.
00:43 Welcoming Michael Thompson.
01:39 Video of Camp Chippewa.
03:43 Why sleep away camp?
04:50 Going beyond activities to develop character.
07:09 Parent’s priorities for the camp experience.
08:35 An opportunity to decide to have fun.
09:40 Parent’s biggest reservations towards sending kids to camp.
11:42 The transformative process from homesickness to resilience.
14:35 Providing a positive context for risk.
16:13 A steady progression of adventure.
17:23 Rites of passage for boys.
18:42 How to help kids deal with homesickness.
19:14 What age should kids start going to camp?
21:22 The trip during camp and coming back changed men.
23:11 A few standout campers: Overcoming shyness.
27:05 More information about Camp Chippewa and resources for camp info.
29:23 Thanks.
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Hosted By
Dr. Tina Bryson
Dr. Tina Payne Bryson is a lecturer, a parenting consultant, and a therapist at pediatric & adolescent psychology associates. She speaks to groups all across the country and writes for numerous venues, most recently the pbs series “this emotional life.” her book, co-authored with dr. Dan Siegel, is called the whole-brain child: 12 revolutionary strategies to nurture your child’s developing mind. She’s a mom to three school-aged boys.
Greg Matuskiewicz
Greg is a former Microsoft executive and father of a five year old boy. He is a three time Iron man ® triathlete, master gardener and activist parent. Greg enjoys marathon running, surfing and spending time with his wife, Peggi and their son Lincoln.
