Counselor in Training (CIT) Handbook 2020 - Adventures Express Summer Camp Cherokee Recreation and Parks - Cherokee ...
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Counselor in Training (CIT) Handbook
Adventures Express Summer Camp
Cherokee Recreation and Parks
2020
1Greetings!
I am so thrilled that you will be joining us this summer in our Counselor in Training (CIT) program. The CITs are valued
members of our camp staff and an essential part of what makes our camps fun and functional for our campers.
This handbook will serve as a guide for you and your parents, so you have a strong understanding of our camp’s
administrative needs, roles and responsibilities and some important skills and tactics to help you be effective leaders
during the program day.
Please be sure to read through this handbook with your parents and have them sign and date the final page. You need
to bring this form with you on the first day of camp as an acknowledgement that you and your parents understand
contents of this handbook and agree to our policies and procedures.
Again, many thanks for registering to be a Counselor in Training here at the Cherokee Recreation & Parks. We look
forward to having you with us as part of our Camp Staff and helping to foster your professional and artistic growth.
Sincerely,
Lauren Voss
Recreation Coordinator
Cherokee Recreation and Parks
2Table of Contents
Welcome Letter………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1
Contact Information, CRPA Mission……………………………………………………………………………………………………3
Summer Session Dates & Times ……………………………………………………………………………………………………..…4
Job Descriptions………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………4-5
Objectives…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..6
Daily Schedules……………….………………..…………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-7
Rules & Expectations ………………..…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-8
CIT Expectations………………..…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 8-9
Health, Safety, Security………………..………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9-10
Communication with Staff & Campers………………………………………………………………………………………………10
Being a Successful CIT & Classroom Management Tips………………..…………………………………………………. 11
CIT Acknowledgement ………………..……………………………………………………………………………………………………12
Important Contact Information
Lauren Voss
Recreation Coordinator – Camps
Office phone: 770 924 7768
Cell phone: 470 281 0638
Email: latvoss@cherokeega.com
Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency (CRPA) Mission
Statement
Cherokee Recreation & Parks Agency (CRPA) camps strive to provide all participants with high quality recreation
and instructional experiences that will be beneficial throughout their lives, as well as provide fun in a safe
atmosphere, conducive to the growth of each child. CRPA camps offer an opportunity for children to build
personal/ social skills though team work, individual or group interaction.
3Summer Camp Session Information: Dates and Times
Program Name: Adventures Express Summer Camp: K - 8
Campers ages: Graduated Kindergarten – 8 years old
Location: Cherokee County Recreation Center
Program Coordinator: Lauren Voss
Camp Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM; will work with coordinator on shift times
Schedule: Opportunity to work up to 8, one-week sessions held throughout the summer of 2020. Please see
below.
Week 1: June 1 - 5
Week 2: June 8 - 12
Week 3: June 15 - 19
Week 4: June 22 - 26
Week 5: June 29 – July 3 NO CAMP
Week 6: July 6 - 10
Week 7: July 13 – 17
Week 8: July 20 – 24
Week 9: July 27 - 31
Job Descriptions
Recreation Coordinator:
Lauren Voss is the Recreation Coordinator over the Adventures Express camps for Cherokee Recreation and
Parks. This is a year-long position that heads of all Adventures Express camps, break camps, and instructional
programming throughout the year at CRPA. Lauren supervises all camp staff and facilitates programming.
Camp Leaders:
• Supervise the operations of their specific program/discipline: planning, implementation and the final
product.
• Ensure proper planning has been done in advance and that information on lesson plans,
activities, and all necessary information has been disseminated to the rest of camp staff.
• Ensure a safe and secure environment for all camp staff and campers in their classrooms and
performance spaces.
• Maintain fun, artistic, engaging, inclusive, supportive, appropriate, productive learning
environments for all students and staff.
• Supervise, mentor and support the staffing team on all levels: counselors, and CITs.
• Maintain clear communication with fellow staff members as well as the Recreation Coordinator.
• Help to reinforce all guidelines and rules of our programming and spaces.
• Take time to get to know all participants in programming, staff and student alike. Inquire and become
aware of any special needs specific students may have.
• Model behavior expected of students and staff.
• Work to engage and include but not befriend program participants.
• Report to the Recreation Coordinator and be consistent in communication about progress, issues and
concerns.
4• Be on time.
Lead Counselors:
• Maintain fun, artistic, engaging, inclusive, supportive, appropriate, productive learning
environments for all students and staff.
• Aid Camp Leaders in the execution of lesson plans and activities as needed and requested.
• Supervise, mentor and support members of the staffing team including CITs.
• Help to prepare the space, materials and activities as needed and requested.
• Ensure a safe and secure environment for all camp staff and campers in their classrooms and
performance spaces.
• Be on time.
Counselors:
• Maintain fun, artistic, engaging, inclusive, supportive, appropriate, productive learning
environments for all students and staff.
• Aid Camp Leaders in the execution of lesson plans and activities as needed and requested.
• Supervise, mentor and support members of the staffing team including junior counselors and CITs.
• Help to prepare the space, materials and activities as needed and requested.
• Ensure a safe and secure environment for all camp staff and campers in their classrooms and
performance spaces.
• Serve as initial/primary contact with parents except in emergency situations. Communicate all
significant interactions with parents to Recreation Coordinator.
• Help to reinforce all guidelines and rules of our programming and spaces.
• Take time to get to know all participants in programming, staff and student alike. Inquire and become
aware of any special needs specific students may have.
• Model behavior expected of students and staff.
• Work to engage and include but not befriend program participants.
• Report to the Camp Leaders and the Recreation as needed and be consistent in communication
about progress, issues and concerns.
• Be on time.
Counselor in Training (CIT):
• Aid and assist in the execution of classes/activities as needed.
• Maintain heightened awareness of participants and environment.
• Supervise students at the beginning and end of the program day.
• Participate enthusiastically in all activities, modeling and helping to engage participants.
• Promote a positive attitude, teamwork and safety among participants.
• Work to engage and include, but not befriend, program participants.
• Maintain appropriate physical contact with campers.
• Communicate with Camp Leaders to answer programmatic questions and communicate with the
Recreation Coordinator to answer personal questions.
• Be on time.
5Objectives:
By the end of the program, all participating CITs will have:
• Observed a variety of different activity areas
• Assisted with administrative duties
• Assisted in implementing camp activities
• Completed weekly self-evaluations with the Recreation Coordinator
A Counselor in Training (CIT) is a(n):
• Valuable volunteer because of the service he/she provides
• Organized volunteer who does his/her job well
• Leader who helps with program activities
• Understanding friend to the camper
• Needed member of the community
• Trustworthy volunteer
• Energetic source of leadership
• Eager worker
• Reliable source of help
Daily Schedules
The Cherokee County Parks and Recreation building is open each day in the Summer time from 7:00 am-6:00pm
for official Camp Hours. If you arrive prior to 7:00am there is no guarantee you will be able to enter the building.
CIT’s will work with Recreation Coordinator about their assigned shifts for the week. CIT’s will volunteer their time
in 6 – 8 hour shifts, each day for their assigned week.
Check In: 7:00 am - 9:00 am
• CITs will be positioned in one of two places during the Check-In period of the program day: At the
check in table or in the gym.
• CITs at the check in table, will guide new campers to their cubbies and make sure they go to the right
location.
• CITs in the gym will be in charge of watching over the group of students during free play. Chatting with
them, doing an activity or art project are among the possibilities at this time of the morning.
Lunch Procedures
• CITs will be responsible for assisting with passing out lunch on days CRPA provides it.
• During the Lunch Hour, CITs will eat their own lunch amongst the campers, and with help the
campers with any needs they have during lunch.
• CITs may sit with fellow CITs during lunch, but are still responsible for watching over students and
attending to their needs.
• Camp staff are always present if they need anything.
Throughout the Day Procedures
• CITs will interact and help with campers throughout activities.
• On field trips, they will help keep campers quiet on the bus, and they will stay with their assigned
groups (and staff members as needed).
• They will bring up any concerns to the camp counselors and staff.
• Again, camp staff are always present if they need anything.
6End of Day/Check-Out Procedures: 4:00 – 6:00 PM
• CITs will be positioned in the gym at the end of the day
• CITs in the gym will be in charge of watching over the group of students during free play. Chatting with
them, doing an activity or art project are among the possibilities at this time of the morning.
• Once their shift time has ended, CITs are officially done for the day, and are allowed to be check
out of camp once they let a Camp Leader know.
Rules and Expectations
As is outlined in the Parent Handbook we give to all families attending Summer Camp, we have certain rules that must
be followed for all our programming. In addition to following the rules themselves, we expect CITs to help uphold the
rules we have in place as members of our camp staff.
Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco
Possession or use of alcohol, tobacco, or any other controlled substance (drugs) is strictly prohibited during your time at
Adventures Express Summer Camp. If you arrive at camp with any of these items in your possession, including drug-
related paraphernalia, they will be confiscated, your parents will be notified, and you will be sent home.
Cell Phone/ Electronics Policy
If a CIT chooses to bring a cell phone to camp, we have very strict rules concerning its usage. Please read over the
policy very carefully.
• Cell phones brought into Camp must be kept on ‘Silent’ at all times.
• A student should not keep their cell phone on their person during the program day (7:00 am 6:00 pm). The cell
phone must be stored in a bag or backpack they bring to camp. No cell phones in pockets.
• At some point during the program day, CITs will be given a short break period. At this time it is ok for them to
check their cell phones. Once the break is over, the cell phone needs to be put away again.
• If a CIT is seen with a cell phone during the program day when they are not on their break, the cell phone will be
confiscated and brought to the Recreation Coordinator. Cell phones can be confiscated by the Recreation
Coordinator, Camp Leaders, Lead Counselors and Camp Counselors. It will be given back to the CIT at the end of
their shift.
• We have plenty of land line phones at Adventures Express that they are welcome to use if they need to contact
someone.
• We ask campers to not bring their electronics to camp, and we ask our CITs and staff the same. No radios, CD
players, MP3 players, headphones, tablets or computers are allowed at camp. If a student has these items in
camp, it will be removed from his or her possession and it will be given back at the end of the day.
Behavior Policy
Proper standards of conduct are necessary to protect the health, safety and well-being of all Adventures Express Staff
and Campers. Please use good judgment in your actions, and know that Adventures Express CITs should abide by the
following rules:
• Show respect to other participants, and treat them as you would like to be treated.
• Show respect to staff, and cooperate fully with their instructions.
• Know and follow the rules of the camp.
• Respect the rights and beliefs of others, and treat others with courtesy and consideration.
• Communicate in an appropriate manner, which means not using foul language or gestures, harsh words or tone of
voice.
• Conduct themselves responsibly. No horseplay, unwelcome teasing or other unkind behaviors are allowed.
• Refrain from deliberately causing bodily harm to other participants or staff.
• Use program equipment, supplies, and facilities properly. 7• Respect the property of others, and that of the camps.
• Follow the instructions of the camp leadership staff.
• Be fully responsible for my actions and understand that irresponsible behavior will result in suspension or dismissal
from Camp.
Food at Camp
• On days that lunch is provided, the CIT will be given the lunch option for the day. If the CIT has dietary restrictions,
they should plan to pack their own lunch.
• On days that lunch is not provided, lunch should be packed.
• No microwavable meals please. Meals will be refrigerated unless noted.
• Plan to pack two snacks each day.
• Water Bottles- It is important for campers to bring water bottles every day to camp to stay well hydrated during the
warm weather. Bottles should be labeled with child’s full name.
• No gum is allowed in the gymnasiums.
Dress Code
• Shirts will be provided to all CIT’s and must be worn each camp day.
• Shorts are acceptable - finger-tip length required.
• Athletic shoes must be worn daily. Sandals are not permitted.
• Swim suits are required on swim days. A one-piece bathing suit is preferred for female CIT’s.
• Hats are acceptable for purposes of sun protection.
• No clothing/hats with inappropriate phrases/symbols.
• COMMON SENSE: If you look in the mirror in the morning and ask “Should I wear this to camp?” then you
should probably change into something else.
CIT Expectations
• Maintain a friendly, positive helpful attitude towards staff members, campers and parents.
• Must treat ALL students with the same respect, enthusiasm, and courtesy.
• Actively participate while campers are in their classes and activities. I.e. helping out with an art project, being a
partner to a student who doesn’t have one, sing along to songs being taught, etc. If an older person like you is
enjoying an activity, the kids will too! Sitting on the floor in the corner of the room is not “Actively Participating.”
• Must always arrive on time and present every day of the session.
• Ask the question “How can I help?” of counselors and teachers whenever they don’t have a specific assignment in
a class. Even if their answer is “I don’t need anything right now” the fact that you asked will always be
appreciated.
• Immediately let their instructor know of any problems in the group.
• Report any accidents to your instructor immediately, no matter how minor.
• Allow the instructor to implement any discipline procedures within the group.
• Follow the CRPA Camp rules and procedures.
• Contact the program coordinators, if you are not sure about CIT responsibilities or have concerns at any time.
Please remember to enjoy the summer, enjoy getting to know each camper, and above all else, remember that you are a
role model for all Adventures Express Campers, so give it your all!
8Through the Counselor In Training Program, you CAN:
• Gain valuable work experience
• Make use of your talents and abilities
• Achieve new skills
• Secure job references
• Improve communication skills
• Develop a greater knowledge and understanding of working with younger students
• Learn to appreciate your own abilities
• Stimulate new friendships
• Receive personal satisfaction by helping other people
Health, Safety and Security
In the event of an emergency during camp at Adventures Express, please refer to the following procedures.
*Please note that in all emergency situations, it is the job of the Recreation Coordinator, Camp Leaders, and Counselors
to stay with their assigned programs/groups at all times. It is the job of the Recreation Coordinator to contact and
coordinate with emergency personnel, parents and families and the needs of the building. CIT’s most important
responsibility is the safety and well-being of themselves and our campers until we can return them safely to the building.
In-Building Emergency
• Cherokee Recreation is equipped with working fire alarms. If the alarm is sounded at any time, we will act as though
it is an official emergency situation and will evacuate the building.
• If an emergency situation is discovered in the building without the fire alarm going off, please report the situation to
the Recreation Coordinator, Camp Staff, or member of the Front Desk Staff immediately so they can decide whether
or not to act.
• If evacuation from the building is necessary please follow the following steps:
o Have campers gather with their official group for the week along with their assigned Counselors and form a
line. Help to make sure every camper is accounted for. DO NOT MAKE AN ATTEMPT TO GATHER YOUR
BELONGINGS UNLESS IT IS PERSCRIBED MEDICATION SUCH AS AN EPIPEN ETC..
o Calmly lead each group out of the building though the front doors and onto the front lawn.
• Please keep students in groups, heading to the outside pavilion.
• Once you have reached pavilion, please have Counselors take attendance of their group to make sure everyone is
present. Report to a Camp Leader is anyone is missing, and Directors please report any missing persons to the
Recreation Coordinator
• Once an “All Clear” if given by the Recreation Coordinator, please return to the building.
Exterior Emergency
• An exterior emergency means an emergency is taking place outside of the CRPA building, due to inclement
weather or another emergency requiring students to stay safely indoors, but in a designated area of the
building.
• If an exterior emergency is in effect, groups will be notified by the Recreation Coordinator to follow these steps:
o Have students gather into their official group for the week along with their assigned Counselors and CITs
and form a line. Make sure every student is accounted for.
o Calmly lead each group onto the Stage. Take attendance to ensure everyone is present. Report to a
Camp Leader if anyone is missing, and Leaders report any missing persons to the Recreation
9Coordinator.
o Once an “All Clear” if given by the Recreation Coordinator, please return to the building and to the room
where your most recent class was taking place.
Medical Emergency
• In the event of a medical emergency, several staff members, counselors and directors are certified in CPR and
First Aid. If you witness a medical emergency of some kind, contact someone immediately so the situation can
be dealt with.
• In a situation where, bodily fluids are involved: blood, vomit, urine, etc. CITs and other staff may be asked to
help evacuate students to another classroom while the mess is effectively cleaned up. A camp staff will deal with
the spill.
• For non-emergency situations, there will be at least one small first aid kit located at each camp with band- aids,
ice packs and basic first aid. If you come across someone needing first aid, please find a counselor to assist.
Personal Safety
Camper and Counselor safety is of utmost importance. In addition to the Camp Code of Conduct, clear guidelines for
interaction and physical touch have been instituted and are vital to everyone’s personal safety. CIT’s should never be
alone with campers for the protection of campers and staff. Additionally, campers should not be touched in any manner
that may be construed as “personal” or “private”. Examples include applying sunscreen lotion, allowing campers to sit in
your lap or carrying a camper.
Discipline
Should a disciplinary problem arise with a CIT, staff will first address the problem with the CIT and provide clear
explanations as to why the specific behavior is inappropriate and help him/her find alternative behavior that meets
expectations. If the problem affects the safety and wellbeing of another CIT, camper or staff member or if the issue
cannot be resolved, the CIT’s parent/guardian will be contacted and the CIT may be released from the program.
Communication with Staff/ Parents
• CITs are often the eyes and ears of a camp program. They overhear or witness situations and conversations that
Counselors can miss because they are teaching, assisting or leading activities. If you witness something of
significance, please don’t hesitate to communicate that information with a Counselor, Lead Camper or the
Recreation Coordinator.
• It is the responsibility of the Recreation Coordinator to have daily/weekly schedules and assignments for all CITs.
If you are ever unclear about what your job is or where you are supposed to be, check in with them.
• If a CIT is having trouble with a student or another CIT in the program, they are to report their concerns to a
Camp Leader or the Recreation Coordinator.
• If a CIT is having trouble with a Camp Leader, they should report their concerns to the Recreation Coordinator.
• If a parent asks any question you cannot answer, please direct them to a camp staffer, and someone will be able
to help them. Try not to guess what the answer to their question might be, it is always better for them to get
correct information even if it means waiting!
Communication with Campers
• Always give directions using positive statements. DO NOT CRITICIZE.
• Listen to campers and respect individual differences.
• Avoid talking down to campers & never use bad language.
• Never ask students to do something that you would not do yourself.
10Tips on Being A Successful CIT
For a successful experience, carefully considered the following points:
• Enthusiasm is the key. If you are not excited about the program, the campers will pick up your “I’m just here….”
attitude.
• Work hard to involve each camper in the program. Campers who feel they are a part of the program will be more
relaxed and cooperative.
• Recognize the importance of everyone. Some suggestions are: a. Take the time to talk with everyone in your group
frequently. b. Give a camper your full attention when she or he is speaking to you (be a good listener)!
• Set a good example. The campers will watch you closely and will be strongly influenced by your attitudes and
behavior.
• Follow directions given to you by the camp staff.
Classroom Management Techniques and Tips for Effective
Communication
First impressions are lasting ones! You will achieve success if you are positive, enthusiastic, and well prepared. In
addition, communicating effectively is extremely important. Make sure you:
• Greet campers every day as they arrive and acknowledge the departure of students as they leave for the day.
• Say something nice to the campers. You achieve more through praise than through criticism.
• Watch what you say to and around the campers. Your words can affect the way an individual feel about him/herself.
Also, the public hears how you talk. Always WATCH WHAT YOU SAY!
• NEVER talk about the campers to other volunteers or staff while other students are present.
• Keep personal conversations to the minimum.
• Professionally handle complaints. If you are approached with a complaint, direct the person to speak with an
instructor or coordinator.
Report all behavior problems to your instructor or coordinator. Your role as a CIT is to help
the staff in maintaining appropriate behavior, by setting a good example and being a positive
role model.
11CIT Handbook Acknowledgement
Please Sign and Return on the First Day of Programming
Thank you so much for reading through this important document. We look forward to having you (and your
children) join us as Counselors in Training for our Summer Programs. If you ever have any questions or
concerns, do not hesitate to contact Cherokee Recreation and Parks at 770-924-7768.
Sincerely,
Lauren Voss
Recreation Coordinator
CIT Program Agreement
• I have read and understand the expectations, responsibilities, and privileges that are outlined in the 2019 CIT
handbook.
• I agree to abide by all rules and policies of Cherokee Recreation and Parks Adventures Express Summer Camp.
• I agree to be respectful of myself, my peers, other campers, camp staff, and the camp environment.
• I understand if I fail to show this respect, or put my own safety or the safety of others at risk in any way, the
consequences may include suspension of privileges or dismissal from camp.
• I realize that, as a CIT, I am held to a higher standard of behavior and attitude than regular campers and/or s, and
that therefore, the CIT, Program, and Camp Directors will have a lower tolerance for misbehavior or poor attitude
with me.
• I agree to do everything in my power to make my camp experience, and the experiences of my peers and
younger campers positive, safe, and fun.
Name of CIT: _________________________________________ Date: _________________________
CIT Signature: __________________________________________________________________________
CIT Parent/Guardian Agreement
• I have read and understood the expectations, responsibilities, and privileges that my child will be subject to
during his/her time as an Adventures Express Summer Camp CIT.
• I understand that my child’s participation in the CIT program is entirely at the discretion of the CIT Program,
Recreation Coordinator.
• I understand that CITs are held to a higher standard of behavior and attitude than traditional campers, and that
infraction of rules, misbehavior, or poor attitude may result in my child being immediately asked to leave camp.
• Should my child be dismissed from the program, I agree to make the necessary transportation arrangements
promptly and at my own expense and inconvenience.
Name of Parent/ Guardian:____________________________ Date: _________________________________
Signature:
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