Anne Lidsky, Kallah Segel and Director of Religious Education, Temple Jeremiah, Northfield, IL

There is something so magical about camp. Being in Kallah with the youngest chanichim has allowed me to see children grow in independence, confidence, and spirit…right in front of my eyes. Although it has only been 10 days since we have been at camp, I see extraordinary changes in the campers, many here for the first time.

Understandably, during the first few days of camp, a good number of chanichim were a bit out of their comfort zone, a few a little weepy, while many others were working hard at a plan to carry towel, water bottle, backpack, and goggles as they walked from tzrif to breicha, a task usually assisted by helpful parents. Now they could accomplish it all on their own!

For some chanichim, this has been the first time they have “put themselves to sleep,” without a story read by dad or a little snuggling with mom….and they have done so with a great sense of accomplishment. I love watching campers try new foods – hmmm, some slices of banana on bread, topped with peanut butter and honey – what a treat. The madrichim have been able to encourage kids to taste a new veggie or fruit or even relish “veggie based taco meat.” They join in on every song with spirit. They walk down the camp paths engaged in real conversation with new friends. They are going home as confident, independent, proud campers who have experienced an extraordinary camp session with memories that will last a lifetime.