Ed School is the program provided for infants through high school. Classes usually meet in the morning while adult classes are in session. The curriculum is chosen by the individual teachers and may include spiritual or values based concepts such as the environment, respecting diversity, conservation, etc. Ed School begins at 8:30AM with a 15-minute group sing each morning for the younger children (through grade 5). Classes are taught by experienced camper-teachers and may consist of crafts, painting, games, stories, music, nature walks in the woods and many other camp activities. Although each ed school group is assigned a specific space/classroom they use all the facilities provided at Geneva Point Center such as hiking trails, the labrynth, playground, playing fields, etc. In addition, other campers may assist on a special project, provide an activity, come along on a hike or just join in the fun. Groups may also plan to provide some aspect of vespers, perform at the hoot, do a small service project, display projects at the end of the week, etc.
Important: Parents are requested to provide information such as allergies, at the beginning of the week. Children who do not wish to participate in the provided program are the responsibility of their parents. At all times of the day, except when they are in class, children are the responsibility of their sponsoring adult/parent/guardian.
Infants, birth-3 years old
Infants up to age 3 have a two-hour period from 8:45 to 10:45 following breakfast. Developmentally appropriate care is provided that includes music, play, stories, sensory/art, snack, outdoor play and naps as needed. There is an outdoor playground designed for young children. The teacher to child ratio is typically 1/2 or 1/3. Anyone wishing to be helpful during the second hour can sign up to walk babies around the green in their strollers.
Preschool, 3 and 4 year olds
Children age 3 and 4 years old are provided a 2 hour preschool program from 8:45 to 10:45 following breakfast. Developmentally appropriate camp activities are guided by experienced caregivers and include music, play, stories, arts and crafts, nature activities and outdoor play. A snack is provided. The adult to child ratio is typically 1/4 or 1/5.
Kindergarten & Grade School, 5-10 years old
For children from 5-10 years old who will be entering kindergarten through grade 5 a 2 hour class and waterfront period are provided immediately following breakfast as the adult classes begin. This group is typically divided into 3 age groups and led by an experienced adult and an assistant. Before class, the groups (and parents if they wish) gather for a 15-minute sing-along at the outdoor chapel then go with their teachers to their assigned classroom. The Grade School classes meet for the rest of the two-hour period in the morning, engaging in camp activities such as nature, crafts and games, followed by an hour at the beach for waterfront activities before lunch.
Junior High, 6th, 7th, and 8th graders
The junior high/middle school children go directly to their class, at 8:45 following breakfast, for a two-hour period in the morning, followed by an hour at the beach for waterfront activities. This group is led by atleast 2 experienced adults who provide interesting activities that may include art, crafts, games, music, drama, etc.
Senior High
This age group is flexible in their meeting time--decided by the group in coordination with the facilitator. They often meet for a one hour period before lunch and are welcome at adult ed classes. They work with their adult leaders to design a program that meets their interests. Small adventures, such as canoe trips, hikes, music, group games, discussion and more are all possible.
Special Needs
All children are welcome in the Ed School and participate with children in their age group. If your child has special needs that you think the teacher should be aware of, or you have suggestions for supporting your child, you may wish to bring these to the attention of the Ed School Coordinator or directly to the teacher. Or you may feel that it is not necessary, given the short duration of the class and the more casual fun nature of camp. In the past there have been children with a variety of special needs and these children have had much success and fun.
