2008 SUMMER PROGRAMS

Group Descriptions

All Campers
Campers registered for full weeks during the summer will be involved in all activities during our theme weeks such as Olympic, Carnival and Water Sports Weeks. Other daily activities include field play, recreational and instructional swim, dance, gymnastics, and tennis. Groups also participate in specialty programs 2-3x per week. These activities may include arts and crafts, video and movies, stagecraft, theater and camp-wide shows. In our state-of-the-art Science & Technology Center, campers will actively enjoy the use of our computer and science labs. Campers will also have access to computer labs where instructors will assist them in the use of such software as Hyperstudio, Kid Pix and other programs.

The Giants
The Giants Program is divided into 3 groups. They are "Giants 3", "Giants 4" and "Giants 5". All campers registering for our youngest division will be placed according to their age: ages 3.0 - 3.11(Giants 3), ages 4.0 - 4.11(Giants 4) and ages 5.0 - 5.11 (Giants 5). Exceptions will be made for 5+ year olds who will be entering 1st grade in September 2005. Those campers will be members of the Junior Program. The Giants are a co-ed group that have complete use of our early Childhood Facility. The group is directed by certified teachers who help organize and monitor the day's activities. Their fun filled day includes play opportunities at the large playground adjacent to their building, regularly scheduled time in the gymnasium and on the field, where a variety of games and events are organized. The Giants swim twice each day and receive swimming lessons during the morning session.

The Juniors
Juniors are campers entering first or second grade. The groups are divided into boys and girls and follow a schedule closely modeled on a school day. The periods allow for a variety of sports-oriented activities, such as soccer, wiffle ball and basketball, utilizing all of the Academy's facilities. Swimming lessons in the morning and recreational swim in the afternoon highlight their day. Teachers and college-age counselors also monitor quiet time activities that may include watching videos on hot days in the Academy's air-conditioned Haugen Hall, or preparing a skit in the theatre.

The Intermediates
The Intermediate Boys and Girls (those campers entering third or fourth grade) are an extension of the Juniors, but their games are usually longer and involve more strategies. They also add softball and football intramurals to their program. The Intermediate Girls are integral members of the camp-wide dance show. Intermediate Boys also participate in the gymnastic program. All Intermediates participate in various specialty programs.

The Seniors
The Seniors Boys (entering fifth or sixth grade) participate in a variety of sports activities. Football, soccer, softball, tennis and basketball games dominate their early morning and afternoon program. Senior Girls have opportunities for sports games and become very involved in the dance/aerobics program. The Senior Girl's skit and their participation in the dance show highlight their camp experience. All Seniors also enjoy a weekly Staten Island-based, off-campus trip.

The Super Seniors
This is a co-ed group for those entering grades seven and eight. Campers are involved in regular sports activities, including swimming. This group travels off-campus twice each week. An on-Staten Island trip might include bowling, mini-golf or roller skating. Excursions off-Island will take the group to Great Adventure, Seaside Heights and a fishing trip, among others. All Super Senior trips and transportation costs are included in camper tuition. Due to the popularity of the Super Senior Division of Day Camp, registration for this group will be for full weeks only. Partial sign-up is not offered for the super senior division. In addition, trips will only be guaranteed when the camper's application is received and paid in full two weeks prior to the trip date.

Counselor in Training
The SIA Day Camp Counselor in Training Program [CIT] is an exciting opportunity for young people to learn in a "hands on" environment how to become a qualified and experienced camp counselor. There are numerous skills involved in being a good counselor, and CIT training teaches the importance of skills such as sensitivity, leadership, communication and teamwork. CIT's work with experienced counselors in all camper age groups to experience real-life situations under professional supervision. In addition to their assigned camp duties, CITs step out of the daily routine for workshops and discussions designed to introduce them to the various methods and strategies necessary in the workplace. Upon successful completion of the program, CITs will receive an evaluation, certificate of completion and a letter of recommendation useful for future job search and personal portfolios. Each session will also provide an off-Island excursion, where the group gets a chance to relax and have fun . This CIT program is an excellent experience for teenager.