Online camper engagement is a vital component of a successful virtual summer camp. One of the best parts of summer camp are the amazing friendships you make. Don’t forget to include ways for campers to engage in your online portal.
Here are a few things to consider as you set up your portal and your virtual summer camp experience.
Community Code of Conduct
Just like you would the first time your camper group gathers as a cabin or small group, you will want to lead your campers through creating a community code of conduct. Have them create the rules they will follow in how to treat each other online. Post it and have them all comment their names as a way of signing and agreeing to the covenant with each other. Create a safe online community for camper engagement.
Create Space for Sharing
As you set up your portal, think about ways to engage with your campers. Remember that you will have both introverted and extroverted campers. Some kids will want to think about a response, while others will blurt out and interrupt to be first. Enable comments, utilize forms, use break out groups in live-streamed events. Create as many ways to interact and share as possible.
Ask Open Ended Questions
It’s something that is so easy to forget. If you ask yes/no questions, you will get one word responses. Ask questions that require a little bit more information sharing. Even when setting kids up for a task, game, or craft. Expand their potential responses with creative questions and mind-expanding thoughts.
Virtual Camp Portal
The Virtual Camp Portal was developed by the Presbyterian Church Camp and Conference Association in partnership with the Office of Christian Formation of the Presbyterian Mission Agency and the web developer, Worship Times.
Worship Times
Worship Times is a full-service digital marketing and communication team that specializes in helping ministries of all sizes and denominations reach their people. During Covid-19 quarantine, we know how important it is to have the best tools at your disposal to stay connected. With over 1,000 partners and even more websites built, we can help you find the digital tools you need to lead your ministry through this uncertain time.
