Staff Training Video #1: Girl Power
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Hello Ladies!
\nThis is where we will discuss the Girl Power video. This is an open forum. Feel free to post anything you like relating to what you just viewed (questions, comments, clarifications, ect..) Also, if you have the urge to respond to a comment previously posted go for it! (Think of this as one big conversation.)
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\nA few sample questions to consider here:
\nWhat did you like about the video?
\nDid you disagree with anything that you saw?
\nHow can we use the principles in the video to enhance life at Rockbrook?
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\nPlease do not feel limited by these questions. This is a blank canvas- paint away! -
Happy Monday, errbody! All this girl power has got me pumped up!! (plus I just drank a latte)
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\nFirst of all, I found it interesting how the narrator of this video was male. Perhaps a female narrator would have made more sense. Who knows, maybe the male narrator was intentional. I’m probably just hypersensitive to this minutia.
\nOther than that, I did enjoy it and I found its messages to be helpful and valid.
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\nCampers have to deal with so much pressure at school and home, and it’s important that we make camp a place for them to let their true, fabulous selves shine. As eccentric as some girls may be, it’s crucial that we accept them for the wonderful, beautiful people that they are. Plus, being complimented on skills and behavior is loads more assuring and powerful than being complimented on appearance.
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\nSomething I’m going to focus on this summer, as simple as it seems, is to address groups of campers as “ladies” or “girls” rather than “guys.” I also want to leave more decision making up to campers. It can be a tricky line to walk- you still need to remain in charge, but allow campers to be independent and empowered. -
ALSO who else thought of Haley when they saw the kayaking instructor wearing the Denison shirt?!
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I really appreciated the distinction they made about age and how it affects the way we interact with the girls and they interact with each other. I know a lot of girls struggle with the “go with the crowd” mentality and I really want to focus on getting girls outside of the habit (for lack of a better word) of not expressing their opinion.
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Whadup Whadup!
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\nI thought this video was very informative. As counselors for young girls, we have to know how to treat them and respond to them effectively in order to make sure they are getting the most out of their camp experience. For me, the best part about watching this video was realizing that Rockbrook already does most of the things mentioned by the narrator. I think it’s important for us, as counselors, to continue the tradition of being strong female role models for the campers. Rockbrook is a place in which all girls are encouraged to be themselves- no matter who that may be. There is no need to worry about conforming to societal norms at camp. I think that it is important for counselors to stress that we want the girls to be nothing more or nothing less than who they are! Rockbrook is a place to build character, gain confidence, AND play outside!!!! eeeeeek! Can’t wait! -
I loved the video. I agree w/ Grayson that the choice of narrator was interesting. However, I find it hopeful when men are the ones calling themselves out in a way. Disclaimer before I get started: I went on an Outward Bound course last summer (28 day multi course) and I’m OBsessed. I talk about it all the time. Probably as often as camp counselors talk about camp.
\nANYWHO, we talked a good bit about gender roles and did a gender split dinner (I have a funny story from that for another time). I found doing that to be really awesome. We all answered questions like “What do you wish men knew about women?” and vice versa. While it was great to talk to other women about how women are treated I found it really interesting to hear what the guys had to say. I think for older girls this could be a cool thing to do, but we aren’t a coed camp so probably nevermind.
\nI am so excited to be working at a camp that actually addresses “girl power” and labels the issues instead of just saying “oh, be encouraging” or something.
\nI totally agree w/ Grayson about using “ladies” or “girls” instead of guys. I’ve started trying to do this (since OB). Some of my friends think its weird but if even in how we address each other we are placing more value on the opposite sex, I think we make it really hard to not let that impact how we act and see ourselves. Sometimes if I feel weird about saying “ladies” I just say “y’all”.
. Or I could,after living in NC for 15 years, be becoming a bit more southern (YAY! .
\nI really liked the part about self-deprecation and excessive apologizing. Y’all – somebody tell me off if I apologize for everything. I do it all the time. And I’d love to be a good role model.
\nI also really liked the part about expression and authentic voices. I love talking about values and living them. OH JEEZ!! Can’t wait to be outside,playing games, being silly, learning loads, w/ some awesome strong creative unique beautiful intelligent ladies!!!!
\nThat was really long. The end… Go drink some lattes and enjoy the sun!!!! -
I liked that the video showed postive and negative interactions that may happen at camp. Sometimes, we don’t realize when we limit the campers by telling them their choices instead of letting them decide themselves. Grayson, I agree, I think having a female narrator would have been more effective. I found that by having a male narrator, it contradicted one of the first scenes that said girls may not feel they can lead if all males are in power. I also thought they used stereotypes of young girls being indecisive and just following the group. I know some of these concepts may be common, but I know a lot of strong willed, opinionated elementary, middle, and high schoolers! As much as the media and our society can be male dominated, I feel as though parents are teaching their girls to be strong and independent as well.
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\nI think one of the great things about Rockbrook is that it is an all girl camp, which makes the pressure to conform for boys less of an issue because they are not surrounded by them. Girls are able to bond and create meaningful friendships without the stress of impressing boys. I love that Rockbrook promotes girls being their “true selves,” and this is what helps bond everyone together. By having counselors who can be positive, fun role models, young girls can learn that it’s ok to be your goofy self, even if it takes a little while to come out of your shell. I’m so looking forward to meeting my campers and being at camp! -
Ladies, these posts are wonderful!
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\nI love GRAYSON’S mention of all the pressures our girls feel at home and how we can create a camp environment where girls feel safe and relaxed. It is important to remember that our campers come to camp with a variety of experiences and influences from home that assist in shaping who they are. We must be mindful and respectful of all of these experiences.
\nWe can create a positive environment for all of our girls by encouraging, praising, and modeling positive behaviors on a daily basis.
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\nBRITTANY brilliantly mentioned the “go with the flow” attitude many girls develop in their early teens. This is so accurate! I think every female has experience with this. During camp we can praise girls as they make confident and definite decisions. Also, we can strive to help girls by transforming the decision-making process into one where they are not constrained by the fear of rejection.
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\nCHASE eloquently described Rockbrook’s vision to nurture every single girl for all she is! At Rockbrook girls have an opportunity to let loose and get a little silly in a variety of settings. As a counselor it is important to remember that when a camper sees you relaxing and acting goofy (wearing a crazy costume, smearing yourself during a sharing cream fight, singing out proudly in the dining hall….) you not only positively influence your camper’s self esteem (“My counselor is so cool and look how silly she’s acting! I can to that too!” ) it will also encourage a camper who is a bit shy or unsure of herself to come out of her shell.
\nOn the flip side to all of that, if a camper is still a little shy to fully participate in all of our camp events that’s okay too! At Rockbrook we never pressure our girls to do anything they are not comfortable with.
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\nMALLORY described many girl’s tendency to apologize excessively. This is so true! At times this indicates a girl’s hesitation in her own voice. She may devalue what she says or feels or may use this tactic as a coping mechanism to reject herself before she gives her peers the same opportunity. As counselors we must remain hypersensitive to this inclination. Identify a camper as engaging in this and role model more affirmative behaviors.
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\nAshely also made a wonderful point by addressing some of the stereotypes seen in the film. Many girls who come to camp have already created positive, authentic voices for themselves and we love this! As counselors it is our duty to encourage these girls to continue in this path of self assurance in a way that supports and follows them into womanhood.
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\nGirl Power! -
Bonjour
\nThis was a very informative video in every way. The interactions between the campers in different situations is very helpful to keep in mind. I remember the age where we were too “cool” to participate in group activities, or when we were afraid to voice our own opinions to our peers. This “phenomenon” is extremely important to be mindful of when it comes to encouraging campers to interact. I also liked how the video highlighted the impact that the presence of the opposite sex has on a camper, and how to compliment based on inner and skill-focused qualities. The diversity shown in this video segment is also key; I feel like a lot of different personalities were successfully displayed, along with the interaction between them. -
I do agree with most of you when it comes to using the male narrator. It is an interesting choice, but I do semi-understand his purpose. They show those girls questioning their all male staff. I know I’ve felt pressures of that. The fact that Rockbrook is an all girl camp will help girls realize they don’t have to impress anyone. All they have to worry about is if they themselves are impressed with the way things are going in their lives. That’s still a problem I face today. I still try to please everyone. I try to be flexible with everyones’ schedule, which I don’t mind, but it is exhausting, especially if you don’t get to do anything for yourself. I’ve learned that it’s okay to be selfish every once in a while. You have to take care of yourself before you can help others.
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\nOne of the most important things I noticed in this video was the importance of allowing girls to make their own decisions. As children, we grow up with our parents and authority figures giving us their opinion on how we are supposed to be. You have to remember that at the end of the day, your family and everyone that’s important to you, will be proud of you. They may not agree, but they will ultimately realize that it is your life. All the while encouraging safe, smart choices, offering advice when it’s needed, but not being overwhelming. From high school until about Freshman year of college, I was probably one of the more indecisive people on the planet (True statement. Ask my friends, family, etc. they will all tell you…I really did/still do want to please people). I was definitely in that circle of friends from the video that spent five minutes trying to decide what they wanted to do, or even when they’d stop for water. There are many females that still have problems with that. I won’t lie, I still from time to time say “It doesn’t matter to me. What do y’all wanna do? I’m up for anything!” But, then we waste 10 minutes making our decision. That’s what happens in a circle of insanely flexible friends! Not a bad way to be, just won’t make things easier. If you spend your life holding everything inside, it can really be draining. It’ll get to the point where you will erupt at people you care about. And that hurts everyone involved. There’s a way to get around all of that if you start young and make decisions for yourself…friends, college major, career. Girls coming from all over to meet with girls who are all going through the same thing. It truly is awesome, and I can’t wait to see them all and help them in whatever way I can. -
I really liked the way that the video actually demonstrated the “positive” and “negative” situations, because a lot of times we might think that we are making girls feel as if they have more of a voice by giving them an important role but that may not be what that specific girl is most comfortable doing. The difference between assigning choices and actually allowing the girls to make choices is really important to notice! I also appreciated the mention of the difference in the ways interact in group situations depending on age. I have seen a lot of the girls I babysit or work with at day camps go through that transition, but never knew that there were studies about how girls are more likely to speak for themselves when they are younger! This video was definitely helpful in pointing out things that we should do, and explaining the WHY.
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First of all, I almost died while watching this video because the kayaking instructor in the Denison shirt is in one of my political science classes at school. I literally had just talked to her two minutes before watching this video— too funny.
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\nI agree with Grayson that it’s a little weird that the narrator of the video is a man– isn’t this entire video about giving young girls and women a voice? Still, I think the video was very accurate and helpful in many ways. I especially identified with the “passivity” they discussed in adolescent girls. This kind of attitude is especially prevalent at camp on the Senior Line. Essentially, the older campers are frequently in that awkward stage where they don’t feel comfortable with themselves either physically or emotionally. This means that they will often seem bored or disinterested, but this is actually rarely the case— they’re just scared to show enthusiasm out of fear of looking “uncool.” This is why it is so important for us as counselors to be as enthusiastic as possible: by showing these girls that we have fun being ourselves and letting down some of our social guards and just being goofy, they will be able to follow our example and have a great time. Camp is the perfect outlet for them to do this because they aren’t surrounded by friends from home or boys. -
I agree with Grayson about the narrator being a man. I also think that as a whole Rockbrook does well with letting girls decide, and encouraging everyone to participate. I do agree with Grayson though that I need to work on using “guys” and not directing campers as much.
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\nI found this video extremely helpful, and I think that the examples of the situations helped me a lot. I found the video very accurate about the younger girls having more of a voice.
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\nCamp should be a place where there are no pressures, and I think we need to find a way to make sure that there are not the pressures of back home. -
I really enjoyed this video and think that empowering our campers is of the utmost importance! I love that Rockbrook is all girls because I believe that developmentally it is extremely beneficial for girls to have time with just girls. It gives them a self confidence that will stick with them for a long time. I was really glad that this video showed examples of what not to do (as has been stated before) because personally its hard when someone is telling you how to act but does not explain how not to act and it would be easy to just do some of those negative things without thinking about it.
\nI also thought the part about letting the girls be themselves and not censor what they want to say was very important. I feel like this is a major problem with young girls today and I want everyone to feel free to speak up at camp this summer! -
Hi Ladies!
\nVery powerful comments.
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\nI love that KRISTEN described a girlhood memory in her post (an age where we were too cool to participate.) Often times counselors feel far removed from the age of the campers that they are working with. At times, this leads to difficulty in relating to the developmental issues that their girls may be dealing with throughout the summer. It is wonderful to remain mindful that we were once the same age as our campers. Sometimes this simple fact really helps put things into perspective!
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\nEMILY admitted that she struggles with some of these issues today (I think that if we are honest we have all found ourselves engaging in some of these behaviors at some point or another.) What is so wonderful about camp is that it is an environment where it is so easy to “rise to the occasion.” What I mean by this is, for example, if a counselor is a nervous about acting as the authoritative figure at camp (ie enforcing rules, setting boundaries) it becomes very easy to step into that role at camp. During staff training we discuss effective ways to act in this capacity. When you perform a difficult task because it’s the best thing for your girls it becomes totally worth it. Even if we’re not all completely comfortable with all of the concepts demonstrated in the video it’s ok. Your girls will love and respect you and you’ll want to be the best role model you can be for them!
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\nKIM spoke to the difference between assigning girls roles and delegating the decision making process onto the campers themselves. Rockbrook is all about this! The girls chose their activities at camp every three days, cabins are responsible for making their own decisions about skits and special events- the list goes on and on. As counselors we must work to elevate this process. During times when the decision making process may cause “drama” (cabin skits, CAs planning banquet) counselors can act as mediators and the experience will become productive and informative rather than detrimental to the girls.
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\nHAYLEY is practically a celebrity now! (I can’t believe you know someone in the video!) What she said about camper’s actions often times getting misinterpreted is very true and a wonderful point. Although it may be easy to get frustrated when you see a camper acting out or not participating, we must try to understand the deeper issues at play. Like Hayley mentioned it may be out of fear of disappointing her peers. Patience and understanding is the key!
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\nMACKENZIE’S point about creating a space where campers can escape the pressures from home is great. Our goal is to strive to make each and every camper feel fantastic and wonderful and loved!
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\nELIZABETH spoke to following directions up with explanations. Sometimes our campers have difficulty complying with the rules when they have can’t conceptualize the motives behind the rule. For example, rather than barking at a camper to “pick up that banana peel that’s on the floor” a counselor might say “there’s a banana peel on the floor” (allow the camper to notice the peel and come to a conclusion about the next logical step in the scene) “if we leave it on the floor someone could slip on it and get hurt.” (Ridiculous example- I know. )
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\nGirl Power! -
Hello! I found that the video was very interesting and pointed out what was important when talking to campers.
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\nAlso, the narrator pointed out how staff members can empower girls and make them feel more comfortable. Girls need to be able to their own decisions and in my opinion camp is the best place to do this. Growing up, I learned so much from going to camp every year. At camp I was able to make my own decisions even branch out from what my friends were doing.
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\nCamp does so much for girls and I am so lucky to have had that experience. At camp we are there to be role models for the girls and support them in what activities they choose. -
I really enjoyed the video.
It made me SO pumped for camp.(basically any little thing does. 
) I have never been to Rockbrook, but from what I’ve heard from my friend who was a counselor in 2007 (Kelsie Rae Johnson, if any of you know her!) and just from the impressions I get from talking with Sofie and looking at the website, it seems that the Rockbrook staff is doing a great job of this already! I know there are definitely ways I can contribute! Probably 90% of my friends are guys, so I’ve never really given a second thought to a lot of concepts in the video, so I know I’ll definitely need to be VERY conscious of how I respond to the girls. I really like the idea of saying “ladies” and “girls” I know that when people address me that way, without using male or androgynous pronouns, I feel more respected, and I want to convey that to the girls.
\nAlso, I think helping girls nurture their authentic voices is so important! We are all wonderful because of our differences, not in spite of them, and we need to all speak up so those differences can be known! If everyone stifles their voice, we’ll have an awfully monotonous summer, and I for one will definitely not let that happen. -
Aside from making me super excited to be back at camp, this video made me realize what an amazing place Rockbrook is, because we already do follow a lot of these principals. As an all girls camp, we take away the pressure of impressing the opposite sex (which I think is a silly thing to worry about in the summer time when all anybody should be doing is relaxing and having fun!). The point about the magazines made me think, because we allow pretty much any magazines that the girls bring with them. In my experience, it’s mostly about looking at the pictures of male celebrities and pinning them up all over the cabin as decorations haha! My CAs last year had a picture of J. Biebs that we drew a mustache on
They generally don’t have any problem saying which guys they like and which ones they think are not so hot. The same goes for the female celebrities, but I’ve definitely noticed that they tend to focus on the guys. I hadn’t thought too much on the female images in these magazines, and in the advertisements particularly. If my campers this summer have any magazines, I’d like to make a point to ask them what they think about the ads and what kind of message they’re getting from them. -
Even though some of the points that were made do not apply to Rockbrook because we are not a co-ed camp, it was awesome to see that all the ones that did apply we have implemented! I do think we have strong female role models and provide girls with so many opportunities to try new things, build character and friendship, as well as make their own decisions. Having so much free time during the day allows the campers to decide for themselves how they will spend their day. However, after seeing how girls older than 11 are less likely to make their own decisions, it’s important to recognize that they may be influenced to do what everyone else in their cabin or friend group is doing. It is important to stress to them that there are plenty of options and make sure that they know exactly what they entail. It would even be powering to tell your girls that you’re going swimming when no one else has decided to go. They will see that it’s OK to make decisions on your own and perhaps even join you! Working with juniors, I definitely see how they make their feelings well-known, and after watching this video I have a better understanding of how to watch out for a lack of communication in older girls!
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Hello Ladies!
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\nBECKY’S firsthand account of how camp transformed her into a positive female role model is a perfect example of one of Rockbrook’s main objectives. As counselors it’s almost scary how big of an impact we have on our campers. They pick up on everything! As the summer rolls along it’s important to remember that even if you think you’re alone a camper- some where- is most likely watching you and noticing everything you do. Challenge yourself to act in the capacity of a true role model at all times.
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\nI love that STEPHANIE highlighted the fact that individual differences are what make life exciting. This is so true! If there is any point in the summer when you have trouble relating to a specific camper (or staff member) just think how boring the summer would be if everyone was like you. (Although you are all fantastic people, we want some spice!)
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\nCHRISTINE analyzed an old time Rockbrook policy. We rarely, if ever, restrict what magazines the girls bring to camp. (We can all use our imaginations as to what types of magazines are confiscated upon arrival.) It may be even more dangerous to the self-image of our girls that the magazines they read don’t have these big, bold, overt horrific statements about women and sex. It’s the subtleties that permeate through society and send a quiet message to girls about who they are and how they should act, look, and feel. When the message is subtle it’s rare that anyone will stand up against it.
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\nSAVANNAH articulated Rockbrook’s goals for our girls at “free time.” Free swim does not imply free time for counselors. In fact, this point of the day holds the most potential to really get to know our campers. “Free” time is a very useful tool for counselors. We can discover any occurring issues with our girls, impose “life lessons”, but most of all we can just “be” with our campers and enjoy their company. To actively assist your girls in developing a creative use for their time is one of the most rewarding experience when you see what they some up with!
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\nGIRL POWER! -
This video got me really pumped for camp! I think the video focused on a lot of great things!
\nThe emphasis on saying “ladies” or “girls” really stuck out to me because I don’t always think about how important this is. I often say “hey guys” without even thinking about it, so this video will definitely help me to be aware of this from now on.
\nI really liked the emphasis on strong female role models. I think that plays such a big impact on girls as they’re growing up. I can remember how much I looked up to older girls and counselors around me when I was a young camper. Now that I am older, I realize just how important that is to the success and development of young girls.
\nAfter watching this video, I am already starting to feel more prepared and better aware of how to best empower our girls this summer! -
This video got me really excited… and made me realize we only have 44 days til camp! Time flies and I cannot wait to be there
This video really interested me because as crazy as it sounds, even as a college student I’m faced with this! I am in a discussion class and I am the only girl out of about 25 people. It’s really hard to get a word in and it’s not a good feeling! I love that we get to learn ways to help the campers never feel that way, and I never realized how simply using ”Ladies” instead of ”guys” would make a difference! I think we are going to have so many strong female role models as counselors, so I’m excited to see how the campers will become more confident girls throughout their stay at camp -
I definitely agree with all of the empowering strategies suggested in the video, but I still do not understand why the narrator was a man. If anything I thought it was ironic; encouraging female leadership and independence while having a male teach us about it…but besides that I found many of the topics consistent with what I have experienced with Rockbrook over the years.
\nThe aspect I think Rockbrook really excels at is giving girls a voice to express their opinions through creative outlets and leadership opportunities. Every night there is a skit where a cabin has to come up with ideas and then work together to implement them. Accomplishing goals within a group creates confidence. Also, I think Rockbrook definitely provides some strong female leaders, considering all of the cabin counselors and activity leaders are girls.
\nThe one highlight of the video that really made me think was the part about the use of media today. Gosh, last year my campers plastered the cabin walls with pictures and tear out posters from every teen-bop magazine imaginable (most were of justin beiber and taylor lautner). I think it would be interesting to implement some of the strategies in the video and explain what the media is exactly trying to sell. -
After watching the video, I think Rockbrook does a great job of empowering girls. For instance, as a camper, our counselors always encouraged all the girls participate in the skits (even if you were just a tree in the background). Each of the girls got to speak up and decide which role they wanted to be. Of course, there are always those that emerge as leaders, and those that would rather sit back and let others plan a skit, but I think letting the girls decide these roles empowers them! Another way in which Rockbrook does a great job of empowering girls is letting them choose their own activities. The only thing that could inhibit their empowerment is when the girls choose activities based solely on what their friends choose because they want to make sure they have activities with friends. I don’t necessarily think this is a bad really thing, though, because it’s natural for girls who have bonded (year after year possibly) at camp will want to spend as much time with their friends as possible. However, I do think it’s a great idea to encourage girls to choose activities based on what activity attracts them. After all, it’s good for girls to branch out and meet new people!
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Hey girls!
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\nWhile I was watching the video I kept finding myself nodding my head and agreeing with so many points the video made. I’m SO EXCITED to meet all of the Rockbrook girls, both campers and counselors!
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\nI took a Gender, Women’s, Sexuality Studies course last semester, and one of the activities we had to do was analyzing a magazine ad that portrayed women in a degrading way. Seeing this activity done in the video further enforced the persuasive power the media can have over women of all ages. Recognizing these issues and talking about them is the only way we can hope to change the representation of women in the media, and having young girls who are prone to self-degradation is even more important.
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\nThere was also mention in the video of recognizing certain “teachable moments” and taking advantage of opportunities when girls may put themselves down, instead of ignoring them. This seems like one of the best ways to counteract put-downs and encourage self-confidence. The sooner we try to fix a problem, the better.
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\nThe entire section about letting girls have influence in the activities they do and the execution of those activities just screamed ROCKBROOK. Yeahhhhh for letting girls be independent!
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\nI, too, thought it was interesting that the narrator was male, but I agree with Mallory that having a male recognize female power is an important aspect of making the issue known; it encourages other men to question how they act towards women.
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\nI’m pumped to put all of this girl power into action! -
Hi Ladies-
\nAll these comments demonstrate that you are true Rockbrook girls and wonderful role models for our campers!
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\nSARA’S comment describing how much she looked up to older girls is so important. As I mentioned before it’s almost scary how big of an impact we have on our campers. As most of us are coming from an environment where we can pretty go, do, and say what we please it is important to stay mindful of “the little things.” Even something as simple as expressing your regret for eating that extra piece of chocolate cake in the dining hall (and trust me- there will be many times at camp where you will feel stuffed full of sugar) can negatively affect a camper’s self image.
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\nKELLY mentioned a camper’s emotion growth while a camp (SPOILER ALERT: next week’s video may discuss parent’s expectations of counselors and emotional development is HUGE!) Parents send their children to camp because they place value on the experience. Obviously, parents love when their child comes home with a new tangible skill (“I made this cup for you in pottery”, “This is called a T-grip on the paddle”, “Check out my target- I got three bulls eyes in archery!”), but it is often the emotional growth and development that impacts parents and campers the most in the long run. One parent described her child after camp as seeming “a bit more grown up.” Counselors play a powerful role in this process.
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\nGABBY’S experience as both a camper and a counselor helps her describe some of the instances where Rockbrook excels in demonstrating the concepts described in the video. In the places where perhaps we fall short it is our job to pick it up! The counselors set the tone of camp. Ghandi famously stated that, “we need to be the change we wish to see in the world.”
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\nAs another long time camper, DEBORAH’S comment is based on the experience of a camper turned counselor. I love that Deborah described the situation where a camper may sign up for a particular activity based on what her friends are doing. Like Deborah said, this is not necessarily a bad thing. Rockbrook has a large focus on friendship and community building. We encourage campers to put themselves out there and as a result they may meet their “BFF” at camp. However, it is important to remind campers to keep that balance of exploring their own interests and meeting new people.
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\nCHRISSY brought up many great points. I love that she highlighted “teachable moments.” These occur almost constantly at camp. For example when you hear a camper complain, “the bracelet I’m making is ugly”, “I’m bad at this”, or “I wish I could look like these girls in the magazine” address the issue. Talk through the comment with the camper. Why does she feel this way? What can you teach her in this moment? -
I found this video really interesting, and something specifically that I found interesting was the praise portion. Too often, women are praised on a physical aspect of themselves, instead of an accomplishment or good deed that they did. I too am guilty of this, although I make a conscious effort to praise my friends for something other than having very cute shoes. (Although the shoe thing happens often, I am in love with shoes!) But this just reinforces the stereotype that women are only valuable for their appearance, when really they can do so much more.
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\nAlso, I really enjoyed reading through the responses, I didn’t even realize that the narrator being male was kind of odd, until I started thinking about it. -
Hey y’all! I thought this video was really informative. I agree with Grayson, the male narrator thing was a little weird, but maybe it sends the message that men and women should be involved in empowering girls. I never really thought about the types of compliments we give to other girls, actually, and I realized that I’m totally guilty. When I can’t find anything else to say to a girl, usually I’ll find something I like about what they’re wearing and compliment them. Granted, usually they’re wearing something that’s totally precious, but still. Now I’m definitely going to be more conscious about that sort of things I complimentother girls on. I definitely agree that girls start to lose their voice as they get older, and, again, I’m definitely guilty of this one. It’s pretty sad, really, that just as girls transition from being a kid to an adult they lose their voice and inidividuality as part of a herd mentality that values apathy. I never thought of this specifically as a gender thing though, so much as an age thing, but it makes a lot of sense. I’m so glad that good old RBC is really good about making sure girls can be themselves though!
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I thought it was really eye opening and really informative on the topic. It really gives me a full circle sort of feel to fully understand our campers. It also helps us to discover something within ourselves as well.
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hey girls!
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\nI thought it was very interesting that they had a male talking about female empowerment, I don’t know, it just didn’t really make sense to me! I feel like he was kind of “mocking it” if that makes any sense. I know that he had some really good points that i never though of, like making the girls feel more in charge and giving them a voice, but I think it would have stuck with me better with a female telling me these things. I tend to really have a “take charge attitude” with is great in leadership roles but I can see how letting these girls decide for themselves who would do best doing what could improve their self esteem and also make them a closer group. I also love that he pointed out that many girls in the middle age group have trouble displaying their “voice”. My baby sister is 12 and she is a lot like that, for as long as I can remember she has always taken a back seat to everything I say, since I am her older sister. And I can honestly say that since watching this video I have tried to not take charge so much with her and to let her tell me her opinion before I open my big mouth and tell her mine. It has worked wonders
\nI really can’t wait to incorporate these lessons into camp life!
\nSo excited! -
I liked the first videos focus on empowering young girls. As most have mentioned… I did find it strange that there was a male narrator. I did find myself agreeing with a lot of the statements, especially letting the campers form their own ideas and plans instead of dictating what they should do. I feel that at several of the camps that I have attended, we were told what to do rather than given time to discuss options and decide for ourselves. I am so excited to see how the girls will do with so many choices of activities this summer!
\nI am also really excited that this camp is all girls… I feel that it will be a great place for the girls to grow and be themselves (even if only for a few weeks). I’m excited to be a part of their camp experience! -
Hey everyone!
\nI think one of the things I was most moved by in the video was realizing some of the things I tend to do when I’m around other women/girls. For instance, I compliment people’s looks, etc. a lot and don’t even realize it, as well as choosing things for people rather than letting them construct their own path. I think this video was great because it helped me to realize some crucial habits I can break before getting to camp!!! -
Hey friends. Going to an all-girl school for my entire life, this video definitely resonated with me. In middle school, we were all, perhaps naturally, catty and fights ensued, but my small 30 people class is closer than ever now. Just like the video highlights, I think the reason we have become so close is that we have realized that little things we do unconsciously can directly affect one another in a negative or positive way. Being self-aware, especially around younger girls, is a skill that hopefully I can work at in camp because small shifts in tone and subject can strike particular chords with them, though we may not realize it.
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I’m so late! I’m backpacking through Austria right now, so I’m running behind on a few things at the moment (class registration? Who needs it!). BUT I’m so excited to get in on this discussion! One of the things that resonated most with me was when they pointed out how girls’ sense of self changes as they get older. Last summer, I did the first session with the Juniors, who are just 100% fine with who they are. They’ll be weird, they’ll be hyper, they’ll strut around the cabin naked after their showers (yeah. It’s awkward.), with no qualms and no apologies. But then I switched to Middlers who are just at the stage when they begin to try to shape themselves to fit what they see in everyone else around them. They begin to do that thing that we ALL do, where we find the loudest, most confident girl in the room and compare ourselves to her–try to be more like her. The best way to combat this newfound self-consciousness, I think, is a strategy they talked about in the video: when there’s something to put together, like a skit, just making sure that every girl gets a chance to talk and contribute can help them to see that they have something unique to offer to the group. It’s amazing to see how, in the space of just three weeks, girls’ confidence can grow in group situations like this. And it’s completely within our power to facilitate that process… that’s kind of awesome.
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\nAlso, long live girls only camps, because anyone who has witnessed the transformation between regular camper, and camper-who’s-just-found-out-there’s-a-dance-tonight knows that it’s way easier for girls to be themselves when there aren’t any guys in the picture. -
Hi all!
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\nI know this is a delayed response BUT – What I immediately noticed about this video was how it highlighted some of the strengths of Rockbrook (being an all girls camp) thankfully, our girls won’t have to deal with image and behavior issues associated with co-ed camping. I thought to myself, “well jeeze…it’s great that our girls won’t have those types of problems!”
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\nSomething else I took away from this video was how important OUR behavior is for these girls. They will model what they see, and our interactions with them truly help shape their self-perceptions. ONE eyeroll or scoff from us can dissuade a girl from being herself or saying something silly ever again. To them, we’re like Superman! Or Wonderwoman? We’re the ones they look up to, so it’s important for us not to fall prey to the types of behaviors discussed in the video. A lot of people have mentioned that so far.
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\nI feel this way because I remember what it was like when I was young girl. I remember how easily my spirit could be broken by just one word or look from an adult (sometimes I still feel that way!) someone else mentioned adopting this kind of perspective…and I agree, it’s so important!
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Lindsey -
Sorry this is so late!
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\nAnyway, I really liked the video. It was informative and helpful, and I’m going to try and change some of my habits, such as using ‘ladies’ or ‘girls’ instead of ‘guys’. I can see how things like that can make girls feel less empowered, and that’s the last thing that I would want my campers to deal with.
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\nIt really helped me to realize what an impact we make on our campers. Especially with juniors; I can remember some of my time as a junior and how my counselor’s attitude affected my experience. Younger campers are very impressionable, so it’s important to watch what you say and do.
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\nOne more thing: I’m really glad that Rockbrook is an all girls camp. Girls are always trying to impress guys, and I’m glad we don’t have to deal with that. It encourages girls to be themselves, and not what guys want them to be. -
Heyyy Everyone!
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\nFirst off, let me say how wonderful it is to hear from you all. I’ve had so much fun reading everyone’s comments and its hysterical because I can honestly hear your voices as I’m reading them. This video is awesome and now I’m hyped up on all this girl power I’m feeling. Were they watching these videos when I was a camper because Rockbrook has always done a phenomenal job of being role models for girls. This video really placed an emphasis on the impact and impression we made on our campers. I adore seeing campers come back year after year slightly wiser and more mature. It really gives you and outlook on what being a camp counselor really is. Camp counselor = best job in the World. -
I have to say, the only thing that didn’t really apply to RBC was the “co-ed” section of the video, because most everything else really resonates with what Rockbrook Camp seems to provide.
\nI do think the section encouraging girls to speak up instead of settling with an unfortunately common “Oh I don’t care” attitude was very important as well as pertinent. At least in my school, it seems to be a common spectacle for slightly younger girls to not say exactly what they feel in order to fit in or avoid being called out.
\nEvery year that I’ve been at RBC, though, I’ve always felt encouragement from my counselors- you all do such a good job at positively reinforcing those kinds of things. -
I really thought this video was important regarding the empowerment of girls. I think that a lot of what the video talked about can be applied to women in society as a whole, not just in a camp setting. Though the use of mainly male leadership positions, male vocal, and discussion about co-ed camps didn’t necessarily apply to rockbrook, i thought that it was really important for girls to feel as if they have an important role in society. The part about letting girls decide for themselves and having a voice is really important to remember when counseling because it aids their growth into independent women.
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Sorry this is so late!!! But I definitely thought that the most interesting thing about this video was when it discussed the passive nature of adolescent girls. Working with the youth at my church, I have seen this idea in practice. The young girls are willing to dance around and act silly, and they are always suggesting things to do and stepping forward as leaders. But the older girls don’t want to embarrass themselves and are therefore less likely to participate in activities or to be willing to be leaders. I know, therefore, how hard it can be to get them active, and I think that this video did a good job of showing how we as counselors should work to empower those girls especially.
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The bit about different age groups acting in different ways struck a chord with me. Adolescent girls definitely have differen social issues than the younger set, and that’s a major thing that counselors have to be aware of. I was also interested in the whole media-portrayal thing. I know that other campers in my cabin have had those fashion magazines and whatnot to read, and I never really gave that a thought before. Maybe we could make that into a teaching experience and talk about it a little. I’m glad that Rockbrook minimizes those issues that you would get with a coed camp and gives the girls time to be girls and not worry about impressing the boys– though when dance time rolls around, we should probably remind ourselves to emphasize that who the girls are is more important than how they look and act that one night.
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This video really encompassed what Rockbrook is all about. Having an all girls camp allows the campers to feel important and empowered, without being overshadowed by more boisterous, active boys. Although the coed bit ddin’t really apply to rockbrook, I thought the video was really insightful, especially the bit about older girls being more passive. The older campers tend to be scared of embarrassing themselves, so they need a push to participate in activites and let their true selves shine.
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This video really encompassed what Rockbrook is all about. Having an all girls camp allows the campers to feel empowered and to give them an opportunity to be themselves, without having to impress the opposite sex. Although the coed bit ddin’t really apply to rockbrook, I thought the video was really insightful, especially the bit about older girls being more passive. The older campers tend to be scared of embarrassing themselves, so they need a push to participate in activites and let their true selves shine.
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Hey everyone,
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\nSorry I’m a little late to the discussion. Computer issues. Ughhh!
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\nI liked watching this video, although I would have loved to see one catered to an all girls camp. I think we have some of these issues on a daily basis, but things really get hyped up when the Camp Carolina dance is announced. It’s important for us to stay involved as counselors, especially with our senior line girls. Creating a good relationship is important because it opens up a comfortable way of communicating and modeling. I was also really excited that the creators of the video threw in a psychology reference! It is really important to understand where our girls fall in their own development. For the campers who haven’t yet hit the point where they start being passive, we need to encourage and praise their active nature. The campers who are older can be a little more difficult because counselors sometimes have to work harder to get them to be active participants. Overall this video had some insightful information, but I think RBC staff already does a great job empowering campers as girls. -
Sorry this is late y’all! Had some problems with the training site, but I’m here now. I though that this video was really insightful, especially in its treatment of the psychology of the different age groups of girls. There is a marked difference between the confidence of a nine-year-old and a twelve-year-old. As girls transition into maturity, they do lose at times their ability to speak their minds due to social pressures and a desire to be well-liked. However, at Rockbrook there definitely is more freedom to be yourself thanks to the all-girl atmosphere. Especially during the tween and young teenage years, wanting to impress boys can hinder self-expression and individuality. Rockbrook is all about shedding those barriers and defenses and embracing who we really are. There’s a lot of freedom to be yourself.
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\nI also think that the part about media was pretty spot on too. There are so many negative images of women on TV and in magazines. Young girls are taught that they must live up to these impossible standards, both in their appearance and their demeanor. These images are destructive to self-confidence and put impossible pressure on girls to fit the mold. It is our responsibility to constantly be positive role models for these girls to show them the potential that young women have to be happy confident individuals.
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