Staff Training
The entire summer camp staff completes a week of orientation prior to the first session. All staff members are Red Cross certified in First Aid and C.P.R.
Staff members and camp counselors working at a specialized activity (Project Adventure, Adventure Sports, Swimming, Waterfront, Archery, and Riflery) are trained prior to our regular staff orientation.
- Lifeguards are certified by the American Red Cross.
- Higher Ground USA conducts the ropes course training.
- Archery staff members receive certification from the National Archery Association.
- Riflery counselors receive certification under the National Rifle Association.
Summer Camp Experts
Dr. Jerry Jennings, educational psychologist from Berry College, Rome, Georgia, is our staff trainer.
He is joined by Dr. Chris Thurber, a school psychologist at Phillips Exeter Academy. Chris also works at Camp Belknap in New Hampshire during the summer and is the author of The Summer Camp Handbook. Chris is a regular presenter for the American Camp Association.
Bob Ditter also assists with training the staff. Bob is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in child, adolescent, and family therapy in Boston, MA. Bob has helped to train staff all over the world and has also been a regular presenter for the American Camp Association.
Some of the topics covered during training are
- bullying
- homesickness
- conflict resolution
- developmental characteristics of campers.
- managing inappropriate talk/behavior
Staff training is mandatory for first-time Laney staff.
