Counselor In Training - CIT (Grades 9-10)

The Sidwell Summer Counselor In Training (CIT) Program is an immersive leadership experience for high school students, offering hands-on professional development in a supportive summer camp environment. Designed for rising 9th and 10th graders, the program helps participants develop leadership, teamwork, and communication skills while gaining valuable experience working with young children and adults. CITs serve as role models for campers, demonstrating positive leadership and behavior under the guidance of dedicated mentors.

Participants will experience the responsibilities of a camp counselor firsthand, including planning activities, managing camper interactions, and supporting daily camp operations. The program includes internships in all aspects of Sidwell Summer life, seminars on resume building and professional communication, and training sessions on topics such as child development, behavior management, and leadership best practices.

The CIT Program runs for 2-week & 3-week sessions across three distinct camp programs: Discovery Day Camp, Sidwell Sports Camps, and DEAN Adventure Camps. CITs can choose one or more sessions based on their interests, gaining tailored experiences that enhance their skills, build their resumes, and prepare them for future leadership roles.

Why Join the CIT Program?

Becoming a CIT is an excellent opportunity to:

• Develop leadership skills through hands-on experiences and structured training.

• Build your resume with meaningful professional experience.

• Strengthen communication and teamwork abilities in a safe and supportive environment.

Join us this summer and discover how the CIT Program can prepare you for future success while making a difference in the lives of young campers!

DEAN Adventure Camps CIT

The DEAN Adventure Camps CIT Program is a unique opportunity for 9th & 10th graders to explore the "teaching side" of camp while developing leadership skills and advancing their creative and technical abilities. Perfect for past DEAN campers or aspiring innovators, this program allows CITs to support professional staff in delivering specialized, hands-on programs such as Accessorize & Style, Art & Lit, Culinary Arts, Design & Build, Machine Sewing, Robotics, Woodworking, and more.

CITs will develop skills by:

• Assisting Lead and Assistant Counselors with teaching and implementing camp curriculum.

• Participating actively in camp activities alongside counselors.

• Demonstrating positive communication and teamwork with campers and staff.

• Engaging with and upholding the "DEAN" culture of creativity, collaboration, and innovation.

• Enhancing their technical and creative skills through hands-on projects.

• Solving problems creatively and gaining constructive feedback.

This program is ideal for CITs who are passionate about developing leadership, creativity, and teaching skills in a highly engaging and innovative environment.

Discovery Day Camp CIT

CITs in the Discovery Day Camp will work with our youngest campers (ages 3 through Grade 5), supporting age-specific groups in an environment designed to inspire creativity, curiosity, and social growth. Depending on assignments, CITs may assist in:

• Discovery Junior Day Camp (Ages 3 - Grade 1):
  CITs help implement fun and interactive lessons, special events, and creative activities aligned with weekly camp themes. Juniors engage in music, arts, sports, and hands-on discovery, all within a nurturing, play-based environment. CITs will collaborate with experienced adult teachers and counselors to foster a stimulating and supportive space for exploration and social interaction.

• Discovery Day Camp (Grades 2 - 5):
  CITs assist with morning and afternoon activities in homebase groups and rotate through specialty workshops based on staffing needs and interests. Specialty workshops may include cooking, water play, improv, storytelling, LEGO building, board games, art, and more.

CITs are encouraged to embrace the vibrant Discovery Day Camp culture, participating fully in weekly themes and dressing up to bring the fun to life! This program provides CITs with a well-rounded experience in child engagement, activity planning, and leadership development.

Sidwell Sports Camps CIT

Sports CITs will have the opportunity to work in the Soccer and Tennis programs, with additional experiences in other sports such as Lawn Games and Pickleball, and more, depending on the session’s offerings.

• Responsibilities:

• Assist with morning arrival and afternoon departure, ensuring campers are greeted and prepared for their activities.

• Help design and implement drills and games to keep participants engaged and active.

• Manage and support campers during breaks and downtime, including playing alongside them and encouraging participation from the sidelines.

• Design, plan, and implement Sports Camp Friday Special Activity

This program provides a dynamic opportunity for sports enthusiasts to develop leadership skills while engaging in activities they love. CITs gain valuable coaching experience and the satisfaction of helping campers build confidence and skills in sports.