A training program for Counselors in Training (CIT’s) at a summer day camp might begin with the telling of the following story:

A young camp counselor who aspired to make a difference in the lives of children was afforded the opportunity to meet with God and ask for one thing. Not surprisingly, the young camp counselor asked God to give her the ability to make a difference in the lives of children. After some consideration God granted the young camp counselor’s wish with one proviso – she would never know when she was making such a difference.

All of us can attest to the truth of this story as we can identify people who, unknowingly, through their actions and words have had a profound impact on our life.
How, though, can one teach teens to effectively lead children and make a difference in their lives? Or to put it another way, if the essential qualities of an outstanding counselor include:

~ being responsible, caring, enthusiastic, and sensitive;

~ being able to work well with others;

~ being able to accept suggestions from others and admit mistakes;

~ being complimentary and encouraging to children and showing an interest in them; and

~ taking initiative and demonstrating patience; then

How do we go about teaching the skills necessary for them to acquire these qualities?

Michael Brandwein, one of the leading trainers of persons in the camping field, identifies the following seven tools as effective methods for teaching these skills to CIT’s:
Modeling– Teens are more in need of text-people than textbooks. The example set by older and more experienced counselors is a powerful method for teaching these skills to teens.
Praise – Words can hurt but they can also inspire. A simple, but sincere admiring comment in response to saying or doing something that reflects a desirable camp counselor quality can be highly motivating to a teen.
Activities –We learn best by doing. Thus, it is essential that the CIT be given opportunities to practice new skills which he has learned. Ideally, this should be done in different contexts including working with children as a CIT, planning special events at camp, and performing community service activities.
Discussion – Dialogue encourages teens to reflect on their experiences and learn by listening to one another. Thus, ongoing group meetings to converse and hear one another are important to skill development.
Journals - When teens are asked to put their thoughts into writing, we are helping them to think and reflect on their work, and better understand themselves. Journal writing is highly introspective and it helps teens to discover the most effective skills themselves.
Mentoring – Providing the CIT with a talented, experienced and caring teacher whom she meets with on a regular basis and whom she looks to for input and guidance is another essential tool for skill development.
Evaluation – A system of evaluation helps teens assess their progress as they learn skills and provides staff with an opportunity to address strengths and areas of concern with teens.

We all know that the quality of a camp is determined not by the number of trips it offers, or the special events it provides. Rather, the best camps are the ones that recruit and train staff who aspire to make a difference in the lives of children.