Stonybrook Day Camp

Summer Camps Make Kids Resilient

2012-02-08T12:05:00.000-05:00

Great Article I had to post. Here is link if you would like instead

http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/nurturing-resilience/201202/summer-camps-make-kids-resilient

Sending children to a residential, or day camp, builds resilience

Published on February 5, 2012 by Michael Ungar, Ph.D. in Nurturing Resilience

I recently spoke to 300 camp directors about how to make children more resilient to life stress. Summer camps (Stonybrook Day Camp), we discovered, are perfect places to help children optimize their psychosocial development.

After all, summer camps are places where children get the experiences they need to bolster their range of coping strategies. There are the simple challenges of learning how to build a fire, going on a hike, or conquering a high ropes course. There are the much more complex challenges of getting along with a new group of peers, learning how to ask for help from others, or taking manageable amount of risks without a parent following after you.

The best camping experiences offer these opportunities for manageable amounts of risk and responsibility, what I term "the risk takers advantage" (see my book Too Safe for Their Own Goodfor more examples). The worst camps pander to children as if they are entitled little creatures whose parents are paying big sums of money. Children at camp can't be treated like customers if they are going to get anything out of the experience. They need to be treated like students whose caregivers, the counselors, know what the kids need to grow.

Camps that pull this off and make kids, especially teens, put away the makeup, stash the iPods, get a little dirty and even a little frustrated while having fun and making new friends, are the kinds of camps that offer children the best of what they need. Looking at those experiences from the vantage point of my research on resilience, I know that camps help our children develop great coping strategies when they provide seven things all children need:

1) New relationships, not just with peers, but with trusted adults other than their parents. Just think about how useful a skill like that is: being able to negotiate on your own with an adult for what you need.

2) A powerful identity that makes the child feel confident in front of others. Your child may not be the best on the ropes course, the fastest swimmer, or the next teen idol when he sings, but chances are that a good camp counselor is going to help your child find something to be proud of that he can do well.

3) Camps help children feel in control of their lives, and those experiences of self-efficacy can travel home as easily as a special art project or the pine cone they carry in their backpack. Children who experience themselves as competent will be better problem-solvers in new situations long after their laundry is cleaned and the smell of the campfire forgotten.

4) Camps make sure that all children are treated fairly. The wonderful thing about camps is that every child starts without the baggage they carry from school. They may be a geek or the child with dyslexia. At camp they will both find opportunities to just be kids who are valued for who they are. No camps tolerate bullying (and if they do, you should withdraw your child immediately).

5) At camp kids get what they need to develop physically. Ideally, fresh air, exercise, a balance between routine and unstructured time, and all the good food their bodies need. Not that smores (marshmellows, chocolate and graham cracker treats) don't have a place at the campfire, but a good camp is also about helping children find healthy lifestyles.

Go Big Blue !

2012-01-31T12:58:00.000-05:00

GO BIG BLUE! This weekend is all about football…. and Stonybrook Day Camp is (obviously) all about the Giants. Yes, we know we have a few families who may be rooting for that other team, but sometimes you just have to take a stand and run with it (please forgive us if you disagree and just remember how much fun your kids had all summer long).

But while we may love the Giants, our love is nothing compared to Belle Christ’s healthy obsession with the team. Belle, who has Cystic Fibrosis, has met many of the players through her involvement with the Cystic FibrosisFoundation. A Randolph resident, she, along with her twin brother Adam, has been a Stonybrook camper for over 7 years. And she is all about camp and all about her Giants. We asked Belle for some insight into the team and her thoughts on why they should win.

Stonybrook: Belle, which Giants players have you personally met?

Belle: I have met Shaun O'Hara, Jeff Feagles, Chris Snee, David Diehl, Brandon Jacobs, Kevin Boss, Laurence Tynes, Eli Manning and Victor Cruz.

Stonybrook: Of the players you have met, does anything stand out?

Belle: Shaun O'Hara said that even when he is done playing football (which he is), he will always help do what he can to find a cure for CF. He is truly the best football player in the whole world.

Stonybrook: How are the Giants involved with CF work?

Belle: Shaun O'Hara (the former center) is the ambassador to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. He hosts an event that I have gone to twice. I have met the players, who are their to support the charity, and at a few games. In addition, to raise awareness for CF, my mom and I shot a video clip with Shaun O'Hara to promote awareness through his Foundation HIKE. I spoke about living with CF and why it is important to support CF research and fundraising.

Stonybrook: Why are they the best team and worthy of the win?

Belle: They are the best team because they are just awesome. They work hard and they work together as a team. And they should win because I like them!

Stonybrook: What advice do you have for the team?

Belle: Work hard, keep your head in the game and never give up.

Stonybrook: What makes you a true fan? What do you do to support the team?

Belle: I am a true fan because I watch every game and never give up hope that they will win. I support the team by showing my pride in them. I wear Giants gear all the time, read about them in the paper and watch anything they are on. When they get hurt or sick, I am sad and worried. I think of them like they are my friends.

Stonybrook: Does Adam like them as well?

Belle: There is so much of it on at home, he has finally become a fan!

GO BELLE AND GO BIG BLUE!

Don't forget to

2012-01-17T09:27:00.000-05:00

We know you are wondering…..With camp not in session, what does Roger do during the off-season????

People often think it’s a multi-month vacation for Roger… ahhh… to be sitting on a beach or hitting the slopes…. It just isn’t so but it sure would be nice…..

So what does Roger do during the off season….. In addition to spending time with Amanda, Emma and Nate, he works full-time to help plan and execute Summer 2012. He loves the job, so don’t feel bad for him that he is not off vacationing!

Just this past week, Roger:

· went to a conference on complying with the American Disability Act and the Department of Justice standards for accessible design;

· worked on the camp calendar and spoke with vendors;

· met with Steve Sussman to work on Teen Xtreme;

· ran multiple tours of camp;

· interviewed potential staff members and did reference checks;

· met with a few staff members one-on-one to talk summer 2012;

updated the parent handbook;

· attended a round table discussion on new and exciting camp activities (top secret info, but they are fantastic- trust us!);

· spoke with Jen Hubert too many times to count; and

· worked with an Attorney and a Civil Engineer on a proposal to the township of Randolph for a camp construction project.

Busy, busy…..Maybe Roger does need a vacation! Hope everyone is enjoying the winter season and just remember… only 153 days till camp is back in session!

Dont Forget to Watch our Videos on http://www.youtube.com/stonybrookdaycamp to remind you and your children about camp!

Don't forget to

Happy Everything from all of us @ Stonybrook Day Camp

2011-12-12T15:57:00.000-05:00

Dear Stonybrook Families and Friends,

We have put together another fun project to share with you during this holiday season. I hope you will enjoy watching this as much as we have enjoyed putting this together. Here is the direct link to our video http://youtu.be/6VngeWDWBuk and here is the link to our YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/stonybrookdaycamp

Happy Holidays from all of us at Stonybrook Day Camp. We are looking forward to seeing you in 188 Days!

PS If you haven't watched the the Tarzan video with your children, here is the link again http://youtu.be/dVCR4rPbnCk.

Feel free to share this and pass it along

Stonybrook Day Camp - 973-584-0078 - www.Stonybrookdaycamp.com

Don't forget to

The Value of Camp

2011-12-08T11:06:00.001-05:00

The value of camp is more than just a fun, summertime activity.

Here are 2 great articles from the American Camp Association that give us insight on many benefits of camp for our children.

Why the World Needs Summer Camp: An Essay to Parents---http://www.acacamps.org/campmag/1111/why-world-needs-summer-camp

Why Day Camp Matters--http://www.acacamps.org/campmag/1111/why-day-camp-matters

Only 197 days till camp!

Don't forget to

"Fotofanatics" at Sports U Academy in Livingston

2011-12-01T12:22:00.000-05:00

Coach Mike and Coach rick are offering a "get to know your camera" course at Sports U Academy in Livingston. Check out their flyer below for more details!

Don't forget to

Welcome Jim !!!

2011-11-24T13:41:00.000-05:00

We are excited to welcome Jim Hegedus as Stonybrook Day Camp’s New Upper Camp Boys Director.

While this is Jim's first year at our camp, he brings with him lots of experience working with kids, and he loves all things camp: sports, hiking, music, fishing, swimming etc. He is the band director and a music teacher in the Livingston School District, where he has worked for the past 11 years. He teaches at Mount Pleasant Elementary School, Harrison Elementary school and Mount Pleasant Middle School. He is also the Marching Band Co-Director and Jazz Band Director for both jazz bands at Livingston High School.

Jim teaches trumpet/trombone/piano lessons privately and has also been a church organist in Randolph for the last 11 years. Jim graduated from Ithaca College with both a Bachelors and a Masters in Music Education.

Jim is a huge sports fan, and is loyal to the Philadelphia Phillies, Flyers, and Eagles. Jim loves traveling and spending time with his family, wife Heather and daughter Claire. He is looking forward to a great summer at Stonybrook!

And not to worry Upper Camp Boys, Matt B. is returning this summer!!!! He is our Program Director and is looking forward to working closely with both Jim, Tamara Silva, Jen, Shelly, Randee and Roger. Its going to be a fun Summer with this leadership…. Plans for Summer 2012 are impressive! Again, welcome Jim!

Don't forget to

What Parents Need to Know About Bullying --- Workshop

2011-11-15T14:08:00.002-05:00

We’re lucky to have someone like Dr. Robyn Silverman living in our community and offering this workshop on bullying. Check out the flyer below about the program, in Randolph, this Thursday night.

Don't forget to

Happy Halloween

2011-10-27T12:54:00.001-04:00

HALLOWEEN and CAMP go hand in hand because they are both incredibly FUN! It is like one big fabulous theme day with all the dressing up and thrills. For those who may want to give their kids an extra special treat on halloween day, we have some suggestions for some quick and easy haunted touch and feel boxes. We promise- quick and easy.... but do have napkins nearby!

Place the following items in bowls and blindfold participants with a scarf or use boxes with covers and holes cut out holes for hands.

TOUCH AND FEEL BOX IDEAS:

Orange slices (WITCH KIDNEYS)

Lasagna noodles cooked and brushed with oil (DRACULA'S SKIN)

Olives in applesauce (MUMMY EYES)

Cold Cooked Spaghetti (WORMS)

Canned Peeled Tomatoes (DRACULA'S BLOOD & GUTS)

Dried Apricots (DRIED WITCHES TONGUES)

Pudding with Corns and Peas (VOMIT)

And for those who may want to go the coloring route, go to Family Fun Magazine for some free coloring page printables:

http://familyfun.go.com/halloween/halloween-printables/halloween-coloring-pages/

Family Fun also has many recipes and we especially like the Hot Dog Mummies:

http://familyfun.go.com/halloween/halloween-recipes/halloween-dinners/hot-dog-mummies-715031/

Enjoy and Happy Halloween!

Roger

Don't forget to

Internship - Yes or No?

2011-10-20T09:41:00.000-04:00

Actual Link to article a great article - thanks Shweta
http://www.usatodayeducate.com/staging/index.php/blog/opinion-skip-the-internship-go-to-camp

Internship (n.)- A scheme that would make Bernie Madoff proud.

I have discovered the perfect summer job. In this job, I am part of an organization that gives me duties that are critical to its long- and short-term success. Supervisors give me responsibilities such as interacting directly with customers on a daily basis, and they fully integrate me into the professional hierarchy. To top it all off, I am learning legitimate skills that will help me develop professionally when I move into the workforce. This mystery job I speak of: camp counselor. These are only a few of the many potential benefits of being a camp counselor, and I offer them not only to praise the occupation, but also to offer a propositional alternative to the profession’s biggest competitor: internships.

For the most part, interns do work that is wholly unrelated to any sort of day-to-day task that full-time employees fulfill. Indeed, not only do most offices give interns mundane tasks that the aforementioned employees would never do, but they are also given tasks that will only be taken over by another intern. In short, interning in any office, regardless of the field, will likely mean you will be performing more secretarial duties than industry-specific ones. Anyone thinking that taking an internship with Goldman Brothers will give him or her a better shot at becoming a full-time employee is misguided. As such, taking an internship for the sake of career advancement is an unwise decision.

As alluded above, internship experience rarely parallels relevant work experience. Moreover, a student with (all else equal) an internship experience — indeed, even two — will not receive a substantive boost in the hiring process. The dirty secret of the professional world is that everyone knows that internships are vehicles through which companies can unload their undesirables onto unsuspecting college students.

Given this, it is reasonable to conclude that internships provide few potential benefits for their laborious components. Not only are interns wasting time in their respective offices by performing arcane duties, they also are allowing their last free summers to go by the wayside. Indeed, for all intents and purposes, college summers are the last ones for which we will have a legitimate array of choices. Accordingly, students would be well advised to engage in activities that they would enjoy, as opposed to activities that they misguidedly believe will yield long-term benefits. To this end, there are more efficacies in volunteering, working in non-profits or even taking classes than doing an internship. However, the most benefit comes from being a camp counselor.

At my particular summer camp, Four Winds Westward Ho, I have learned many workplace skills that are more relevant than what I could obtain from an internship. For example, at Four Winds, located on tiny Orcas Island in the San Juan Islands off the coast of Seattle, I am fully integrated into the aforementioned professional hierarchy. I am given great responsibility; indeed, I am responsible for the physical, emotional and mental well-being of up to seven children for two four-week sessions.

Working at Four Winds has taught me perhaps the most important skill for any job: grit. Rather, working at a summer camp necessitates that I have the ability to seem happy and enthusiastic even when I am not. I have learned to deal with changes in the workplace on the fly, and I have learned to deal with people in the workplace that I do not like. In short, you should spurn the skullduggery of your potential internship to work at a summer camp. Indeed, whereas most internships are fraught with the malaise of the Carter administration and the excitement of the Buchanan administration, working at a summer camp is rife with enthusiasm that place them well above internships on the utility scale.

Darryl Brown is a junior at Williams College.

Don't forget to

Octoberfest!

2011-10-02T14:14:00.000-04:00

Octoberfest was a GREAT day for so many reasons.... The first being, it did not rain!!!!!!! What a relief that we had crisp fall weather and the rain held off. We had many smiles and hugs as it was great to see and catch up with camp friends. It was also a pleasure meeting future campers who are joining us for Summer 2012.

We hope today's taste of camp has them even more excited for June. We also loved meeting potential campers, who came to check out what Stonybrook is all about. Many are referrals and we thank you for spreading the news about our fabulous summers. Lastly, it was simply fall fun complete with horse and carriage rides, boating, DJ games, zip line, pumpkin painting, jumpy pillow and animals from a petting farm (cows, goats, bunnies and chickens.... all the animals were incredibly patient and got so much attention). We loved seeing our campers so happy and comfortable to be back at their summer homes away from home!

The entire day was captured on film by our camp photographer, Jodi Rothfeld of Paintchips & Cupcakes. As she did this past Summer, her pictures captured the excitement of Octoberfest and showcased highlights of the day. Jodi is so talented and really has a gift when it comes to children's photography. We are thrilled to report that Jodi will be joining us again for Summer 2012 so expect some frame worthy shots this Summer!

And let the good times go long past Octoberfest. Be sure to call and register your child for camp if you have not yet done so. The sooner we know your child is attending, the sooner we can start planning their camp experience. Join us for Summer 2012- We welcome you to make it official!

Don't forget to

Join us on October 1st for OCTOBERFEST!!!

2011-08-26T13:35:00.000-04:00

Don't forget to

It's Hard to Say Goodbye.....

2011-08-19T18:18:00.000-04:00

It’s here…the last day of summer. Today was filled with laughter and some tears, with hugs and with sharpies. We want more summer 2011, but it’s time to say goodbye…. till we meet again!

We acknowledged the summer’s memories and achievements, and we reluctantly took our campers to their buses. With mixed emotions, we stood on the hill for one last time and waved to our campers; their faces pressed against the windows. For some, the tears flowed while others smiled and soaked in the sense of community…one last time together in 2011.

We have three words of advice: rejoice, validate, and listen!

Rejoice in the reality that your child has grown physically, emotionally, and socially this summer, and that you made it happen by choosing Stonybrook Day Camp. You gave your child a fabulous summer, and we thank you for trusting us to make it happen.
Validate the feelings of sadness that camp is over for a while. Be open and available to talk about camp. Share your own feelings and observations about your camper’s accomplishments. Acknowledge the transition from camp to whatever comes next and move forward, happy that they enjoyed their time at Stonybrook.
And listen, listen, listen: keep the pace slow for a few days, linger over family dinners, ask questions – What was your favorite moment at camp? What will you miss the most about camp? Talk about their friends…even their challenges and especially their triumphs.

And we want to stay connected. We’d love for you to share some of your camper’s triumphs and accomplishments with us on Facebook at facebook.com/stonybrookcamp. Our camp community continues past today and beyond camp. Please let us know about your milestones and achievements throughout the year!

Next summer isn’t far away…thank goodness…

See you at Octoberfest on October 1st,

Roger and the Stonybrook Team

Don't forget to

Monkey Bread Recipe

2011-08-18T10:57:00.001-04:00

Monkey Bread

We created this recipe using a 9x12 in. pan. However, this recipe also works well in a Bundt pan (if you choose to use the bundt pan, I would suggest doubling the recipe)

1 package + 2 extra buttermilk biscuit tubes (a total of ten biscuits)

½ cup sugar

2 teaspoons cinnamon

½ cup butter

½ cup brown sugar

Take each of the 10 biscuits and cut each biscuit into 4 pieces. Roll the pieces into balls. Drop rolled pieces into ½ cup sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon mix (a Ziploc bag works best). Shake the pieces to coat them with the mixture. Once you remove them from the bag, flatten the pieces. Lay them into the well-buttered pan, slightly overlapping them.

Put the remaining sugar/cinnamon mixture, the rest of the stick of butter, and ½ cup packed brown sugar into a small saucepan.

Bring this mixture just to a boil and remove from heat immediately. Carefully drizzle over the roll pieces.

Bake at 350F for 30 minutes.

Cool slightly in an upright position, then tip pan over onto a plate to remove monkey pull-apart bread. Enjoy!

Don't forget to

Stonybrook Day Camp Carnival!

2011-08-17T18:20:00.000-04:00

Carnival is a highlight at Stonybrook Day Camp, and this year's Carnival exceeded expectations!

Matt started the event with a swinging of the hammer at the big carnival hammer game. As he showed off his strength, crazy excitement hit camp and our campers took over from there!

Campers enjoyed a huge super slide moon walker, bounce house, foam jousting and red rocket bounce. They also enjoyed an array of carnival booths, including a can smash, ring toss, six-cats-down (you get three chances to knock six cats down), tic tac toe and electric basketball. There was also a sports challenge and Jurassic toss, among other activities.

And your camper may have some BIG NEWS.... the carnival marriage booth was EXTREMELY busy!

In keeping with our Carnival theme, campers enjoyed cotton candy and snow cones. Campers 2nd grade and up earned tickets which they redeemed for prizes and all of our younger campers received Stonybrook bags filled with loot. This was an event campers did not want to end; You could hear them asking for more as the day came to a close. And we can't blame them- the weather was perfect and it was pure fun, plain and simple.

With all the Carnival action, our campers should sleep well tonight!

Don't forget to

Sports at Stonybrook Day Camp!

2011-08-16T20:18:00.000-04:00

Sports at Stonybrook has been grand slam excitement! The Sports Specialist team, including seasoned veterans Jim Stricchiola, Rich Gordon, Rob Moore, and Bill Nausbaum, along with Tyler Raff, have enjoyed working with each and every group this summer.

Under Jim's instruction, our basketball court has been filled with campers working on dribbling, passing and shooting skills.

Campers have also been on the softball field with Rich. With the Stony Monster looming over the left field fence, campers have been instructed in fielding, running the bases, throwing and hitting.

With soccer balls flying high, Bill has kept the campers moving and involved. Working on skills such as dribbling, passing and shooting, campers have been getting in plenty of cardio along the way.

Rob has had the campers working on their marksmanship in archery. Not a day goes by that a camper isn’t announcing that they hit the bullseye! Rob also has the campers zipping around the Stonybrook ATV course. With safety first, campers have become very adept at handling the turns of the course.

Tyler has instructed campers in the game of tennis. Forehands and backhands have been improving for all!

The softball/baseball, basketball, and soccer clinics run by Rick Petrosine aka "Coach Rick" has added a specialized touch this year.

All in all, the sports team has had the campers actively involved in all things sports. Whether focusing on the rules of the game, taking turns, or working on specific skills, all sports activities centered on having fun!

Thanks for a great season and see you next summer!

Don't forget to

Celebrating 50 years at Stonybrook---Shelly Brittner Day!

2011-08-15T17:41:00.000-04:00

50 is a big number!

Plain and simple- it is B.I.G.- and it is also the number of years Shelly Brittner has spent at Stonybrook Day Camp, starting when she was just 5 years old.

We couldn't let this milestone pass without the recognition it deserved, so today at camp, it was Shelly Brittner day! It was a day to celebrate her and all that she does for us. It was also a day to have a little fun at her expense (innocently enough) with a little roast; we were laughing hard and so was Shelly!

And despite the rain, our campers were in party mode all day long in her honor. Entertainment was provided by Cowboy Roy who showed off with songs, jokes, and lots of great fun.

We had a special cake made with her picture on it and we all sang Happy Anniversary to our favorite camp mom. Shelly was presented with a scrapbook, as a gift, which details many of her adventures at camp and she was showered with lots of attention and love.

THANK YOU SHELLY FOR EVERYTHING YOU DO TO MAKE CAMP SO WONDERFUL FOR SO MANY CAMPERS.

You are the best!

Don't forget to

Giveaway--$500 Discount on 2012 Tuition!

2011-08-15T09:27:00.001-04:00

It's Week 8 of Camp and the last of our 4 giveaways!

Congratulations again to Lauren Young--our winner from last week!

This is the BIG one!! One winner will win a $500 discount on next year's tuition!

Good luck and have fun!

Here is how to gain up to 4 ENTRIES PER WEEK.

1. FACEBOOK

LIKE our Facebook Fan Page--if you have already LIKED our page then you can share this giveaway on your FB wall.

https://www.facebook.com/stonybrookcamp

Instructions:

Liking: click on the URL above. At the very top of the FB page there is a LIKE button. Click it!
Sharing: click on your status area. Copy and past this --LINK- http://stonybrookdaycamp.blogspot.com/2011/07/dear-parents-family-and-friends-we-dont.html
Next-Click attach.
Write something fun!
Click share.

To be entered into the giveaway--come back to the blog and leave a comment that you did so!

2. SMUG MUG

Share a photo of your child from smug mug either via email to friends and family or on your Facebook Wall.

http://stonybrookdaycamp.smugmug.com/

Instructions:

Sharing: Go to the URL above. Find the thumbnail of your child. Click the blue FB Share button, it will ask you to allow FB to link to Smug Mug. Click okay. It will automatically post to your wall!

To be entered into the giveaway--come back to the blog and leave a comment that you did so!

3. BLOG

Subscribe to our blog. If you are already a subscriber then you can share this blog link on your Facebook wall or email to your family and friends.

http://stonybrookdaycamp.blogspot.com/

Instructions: Many ways to do this.

Subscribe: There is a little box in the right hand side of our blog that asks, "do you want email delivery?". Simply type in your email. Hit okay. Go back into your email box and make sure to confirm/activate!
Emailing: cut and paste this link --to the blog post--- http://stonybrookdaycamp.blogspot.com/2011/07/dear-parents-family-and-friends-we-dont.html on your email/facebook wall.
Via the Blog: At the bottom of every blog post there is a bunch of little icons M--email. F--facebook post. T--tweet! Click on them and follow instructions!

To be entered into the giveaway--come back to the blog and leave a comment that you did so!

4. TWITTER

Follow Stonybrook Day Camp on Twitter. If you are already a follower tweet about the giveaway.

http://twitter.com/#%21/stonybrookcamp

Instructions:

Following: Click on the URL above. Click Follow (StonybrookCamp) on twitter.
Tweeting: Cut and paste this Tiny URL - http://tinyurl.com/3gs28s4 for this giveaway onto your twitter account.

To be entered into the giveaway--come back to the blog and leave a comment that you did so!

BLOG COMMENTS

Remember, please come back and comment on the blog that you did one or more of the requirements. Make sure to leave an individual comment for each thing you do! At the end of each week we will be picking a winner (via random generator at random.org).

Instructions on how to comment on blog:

1. At the end of the blog post there is a little red link that says "Comment Here".

2. Enter your comment into the white box.

3. Click on post comment as "Name/URL". (Don't worry, you don't need a URL to enter)

4. Voila....see your comment in the comment section!

***Again, make sure to leave separate comments for each entry!

RULES:

Giveaway ends at the end of the Camp week (Friday) at 4 pm.
Winner will be announced over the weekend!
Discount is good for 2012 camp season only.
Discount is non-transferable.
Only allowed to win one time....you can play along but once you win you will not be eligible to win again. We want to spread the love!

Good luck, have fun, and thanks for participating!

Roger and the Stonybrook Team

Don't forget to

Color War Winner and Highlights!

2011-08-12T17:09:00.000-04:00

Color War was exactly that today.....A WAR.

The day always starts off with a friendly faces but it doesn't take long to turn the corner to a heated battle!

The competition was on and the campers were very motivated!!! The excitement was so intense that you could hear the screams and chants from the camp from far away!!!

It was the closest color war competition in the the history of Stonybrook Day Camp! But in the end only one team could prevail!!!

Congratulations........DRUM ROLL please.............to the BLUE TEAM!!!

Here is a look back at our 2011 Stonybrook Day Camp Color War!

We are bitter sweet about next week. It will be fun and exciting but it will also be hard to say goodbye to Summer! Enjoy your weekend everyone!

Don't forget to

COLOR WAR has officially started at Stonybrook!

2011-08-11T19:27:00.000-04:00

The most anticipated day of the summer arrived today------ COLOR WAR!!!!

The energy was beyond comprehension... just pure thrill!

We started the day off with some fun entertainment. All the campers gathered around for the HUMAN BOARD game. The energy and enthusiasm were so intense, even the camera cannot do it justice. Campers were so excited and everyone felt like this was it....color war. But NO! It was a FAKE BREAK!

Campers then headed over for their daily lunch and Matt led the way with his usual song and dance. Next thing we all knew....COLOR WAR was announced and all of the Captains sprinted into the lunch area to get things started!

We honestly don't even know how we keep coming up with new ways to start the competition! But this year did not disappoint!

And speaking of competition, all campers will come home wearing a bracelet, either white or blue. If white they are on the WHITE Wizards team and should come to camp wearing white. If blue, they are on the BLUE Basilisks and should wear blue. Let the games begin!

Tomorrow is gonna be a day to remember!

Don't forget to

Visiting Day!

2011-08-10T18:17:00.000-04:00

Junior Camp had visiting day today, and it was a treat for many parents and grandparents! Arriving at noon, campers shared a pizza lunch with their family and then they were off to perform their spirit day acts in front of everyone.

After the big performances, groups went to activities including swim, art, sports, cooking, super science and challenge course. Our parents saw their kids in action and were able to see all of the fun that their campers enjoy at stonybrook.

It was a day of smiles and good times and we were happy to welcome our parents.... they just have to stay home tomorrow!

Don't forget to

Challenge Course Adventures at Stonybrook!

2011-08-09T14:20:00.000-04:00

Our Challenge Course Specialists:

Caryn Karger, Jeff Dickenson, Jen Mambelli, Ari Kampel, Lisa Clark,

Carlee Marcinkowski, Britta Schymonski

"Challenge by Choice" is our motto at Stonybrook Day Camp's Challenge Course. Every camper is given the support needed to try new climbs or to go one step further, but they are truly in control at the course. Our campers climb what they are comfortable with and push themselves when they are ready. We celebrate their achievements and present new opportunities all the time.

It thrills us to see a camper's face when he or she zips on the Big Zipline or climbs to the top of the firecracker for the very first time. And every achievement is recorded. Each camper gets a climber card with 13 climbs listed. As campers complete each climb, we mark the date on the card. Eight climbs earns level 1; 10 climbs earn level 2; and 12 climbs earn level 3 and their caribbeaner.

We see every group in camp from the youngest to the oldest. Our youngest campers get used to being in a harness and helmet while introducing them to the low versions of our zipline, 3 line-bridge and multiline. We facilitate team building with our older campers, especially when they work together on the giant swing. Campers 3rd grade and up have an opportunity to complete the final 2 challenges on our card once they qualify; first they must master rapel school and then they show off what they learned as they rapel down our 40 foot rapel tower, joining our exclusive medallion club.

We have a large banner acknowledging campers who have earned levels 1, 2, and 3, as well as those who have mastered our horizontal wall and our medallion club. We challenge you to go for it- earn your spot on the banner! But most importantly, have fun trying!

Don't forget to

Rookie Day!

2011-08-08T15:51:00.000-04:00

Today was a sneak peak at summer 2012 for 10 very lucky rookie campers! Our rookies enjoyed a busy jam packed day of activities in just an hour and 15 minutes. They bounced on the jumping pillow and played basketball with speed.... ok, with some smiles. At arts and crafts they decorated beach pails and at super science they made goo.

It was a great time, and we hope they are excited for everything Stonybrook has waiting for them next summer... we definitely think they left here wanting more! If you know someone who may want to join in the fun, please refer them as it is a great way for you to show your love!

You can check out more Rookie Day photos from today on Smug Mug!

Don't forget to

Giveaway-- Enter to win a $250 Discount on 2012 Tuition!

2011-08-08T10:04:00.001-04:00

It's Week 7 of Camp but it's the 3rd of our 4 giveaways!

Congratulations again to Heidi Michaels--our winner from last week!

Let the 3rd round begin!

Have fun!

Here is how to gain up to 4 ENTRIES PER WEEK.

1. FACEBOOK

LIKE our Facebook Fan Page--if you have already LIKED our page then you can share this giveaway on your FB wall.

https://www.facebook.com/stonybrookcamp

Instructions:

Liking: click on the URL above. At the very top of the FB page there is a LIKE button. Click it!
Sharing: click on your status area. Copy and past this --LINK- http://stonybrookdaycamp.blogspot.com/2011/07/dear-parents-family-and-friends-we-dont.html
Next-Click attach.
Write something fun!
Click share.

To be entered into the giveaway--come back to the blog and leave a comment that you did so!

2. SMUG MUG

Share a photo of your child from smug mug either via email to friends and family or on your Facebook Wall.

http://stonybrookdaycamp.smugmug.com/

Instructions:

Sharing: Go to the URL above. Find the thumbnail of your child. Click the blue FB Share button, it will ask you to allow FB to link to Smug Mug. Click okay. It will automatically post to your wall!

To be entered into the giveaway--come back to the blog and leave a comment that you did so!

3. BLOG

Subscribe to our blog. If you are already a subscriber then you can share this blog link on your Facebook wall or email to your family and friends.

http://stonybrookdaycamp.blogspot.com/

Instructions: Many ways to do this.

Subscribe: There is a little box in the right hand side of our blog that asks, "do you want email delivery?". Simply type in your email. Hit okay. Go back into your email box and make sure to confirm/activate!
Emailing: cut and paste this link --to the blog post--- http://stonybrookdaycamp.blogspot.com/2011/07/dear-parents-family-and-friends-we-dont.html on your email/facebook wall.
Via the Blog: At the bottom of every blog post there is a bunch of little icons M--email. F--facebook post. T--tweet! Click on them and follow instructions!

To be entered into the giveaway--come back to the blog and leave a comment that you did so!

4. TWITTER

Follow Stonybrook Day Camp on Twitter. If you are already a follower tweet about the giveaway.

http://twitter.com/#%21/stonybrookcamp

Instructions:

Following: Click on the URL above. Click Follow (StonybrookCamp) on twitter.
Tweeting: Cut and paste this Tiny URL - http://tinyurl.com/3gs28s4 for this giveaway onto your twitter account.

To be entered into the giveaway--come back to the blog and leave a comment that you did so!

BLOG COMMENTS

Instructions on how to comment on blog:

1. At the end of the blog post there is a little red link that says "Comment Here".

2. Enter your comment into the white box.

3. Click on post comment as "Name/URL". (Don't worry, you don't need a URL to enter)

4. Voila....see your comment in the comment section!

***Again, make sure to leave separate comments for each entry!

RULES:

Giveaway ends at the end of the Camp week (Friday) at 4 pm.
Winner will be announced over the weekend!
Discount is good for 2012 camp season only.
Discount is non-transferable.
Only allowed to win one time....you can play along but once you win you will not be eligible to win again. We want to spread the love!

Good luck, have fun, and thanks for participating!

Roger and the Stonybrook Team

Don't forget to

Week 6---Highlights!

2011-08-05T15:49:00.001-04:00

We can't believe week 6 has already come and gone!! Only 2 more weeks of camp left! It's going to be the most exciting 2 weeks ever.......we are looking forward to it. In the meantime, here is a look back at week 6!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Don't forget to

Future Fashionistas at Stonybrook Day Camp!

2011-08-04T16:41:00.000-04:00

Future Fashionistas have Gone Campin'!
Armed with only scissors, stencils and paint...The creators of Future Fashionistas , Mindy Scheier and Hallie Dennis, became simply assistant designers to the 60 Stonybrook-ers turned fashion designers as they transformed plain white t-shirts into amazing,original designs. The coolest clothing stores in town would be thrilled to have them!

It was an incredible day of fashionable creativity and fun!
For more information on Future Fashionistas classes and birthday parties go to:
Www.futurefashionistas.com or info@futurefashionistas.com

Don't forget to

Cooking at Stonybrook!

2011-08-03T15:19:00.000-04:00

Our Cooking Specialist: Alison Barbag

What is on the menu today?

This is the question campers ask when coming to the cooking tent. Our ovens have been busy creating some delicious culinary creations. And this year at cooking, we have focused more on healthier choices while still having fun in the kitchen! We have had a blast making delicious items such as pizza, apple muffins, pretzels, banana bread, and tortilla chips.

We also had lots of fun experimenting with a variety of fruits, including fruit kabobs, smoothies, applesauce, and banana snowmen for our littlest campers. Anything with cinnamon has made our kitchen smell wonderful. Our campers especially enjoyed making cinnamon toast at electives. On fruit and vegetable day, we made celery ants on a log and our own lemon-lime aide.

Stay tuned for more delicious delights!

Bon Appetite!

Don't forget to

Water Day at Stonybrook!

2011-08-02T16:19:00.000-04:00

Water, water everywhere! Today was WATER DAY for all and yesterday for our Trailblazers and Teen Xtreme campers who enjoyed TUBING ON LAKE HOPATCONG!

Water day is all about big water slides, big slip and slides......... This day is always a camper favorite and today did not disappoint! We had smiles and happy campers all over the place.

And tubing on Lake Hopatcong- well it is one of those camp activities you have to experience for yourself in order to understand the rush and excitement…. but we’ll give it a try! Think about you, along with one or two other friends, holding onto a huge tube that is being pulled by a motor boat. Think about the wind racing through your hair while water splashes all around.

So far our 5th week of camp has been all about pure thrill and Stonybrook fun in water!

Don't forget to