February Respite Weekend Preview

Have you heard about our winter respite weekends? If not, this post will give you a glimpse into what we do during our winter respite camps, why they are important for our campers, and why they are important to caregivers and families of our campers. Of course, we think the best way to learn about our respite weekends is to come to them! If you are interested in registering your camper for our February (3-4th) or March (3-4th) respite weekends, please email [email protected].

Winter respite weekends are like an intro into our full week-long summer residential camps. We highlight many of the same activities: arts n' crafts, nature n' science, fun n' games, and so much more! Because of the weather we are stuck indoors, but that doesn't stop us from having fun! Each winter respite weekend is based around a theme. February's respite weekend we are focused on Valentine's Day! Campers will make Valentine's cards, play themed Bingo, create their own crystallized hearts to bring home, and even make 'love potions!' Meals for the weekend are provided, and campers get to stay overnight in our main lodge with other campers and counselors.

Campers love to attend winter respite weekends, not only to get out of the house for a weekend vacation, but to interact with our incredible campers and staff. Many of our campers have made lifelong friends with other campers and staff members, and they return throughout the year to maintain and build those relationships. Winter respite weekends help to break up the long monogamous season, and allow for an outing which campers otherwise may not have throughout the winter season. They also provide relief for those struggling with seasonal depression through a change in routine and the interaction with friends in a new place. Respite opportunities for our campers are few and far between during winter months, so these weekends provide much needed time away from home.

Not only do these weekends provide respite for campers, but they also provide much needed rest for caretakers and families. Winter months are long and arduous with limited opportunities for outdoor activities and travel. Camp's Program Director, Cassi Banwarth states, "I think that respite weekends are really beneficial for caregivers and parents. It allows them to have a much needed break, even if it is only for 2 days." 

In short, winter respite weekends are a huge benefit to both campers and caregivers, and we hope you will think about registering your camper for a weekend or two this year before our summer camp season reopens! Again, to register please email [email protected] or call 563-552-1771.