In the charmingly diverse state of Maryland, sandwiched between the sparkling Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Appalachian Mountains, there resides a quirky little creature named Shelly the Snail. Shelly has quite the penchant for arts and crafts. She's what you might call a "crafty critter" and she enjoys weaving her magical creativity all around the state. Maryland, a state fondly known as America in Miniature for its varied geography, is teeming with kids who share Shelly’s love for arts and crafts. From the sandy shores of Ocean City to the bustling streets of Baltimore, Shelly has seen them all, leaving a trail of glitter and color behind her. Kids from Maryland are special. They aren't merely kids who wield brushes and crayons. No, no, no! They are wizards and witches, armed with magical wands, who can, with a simple flick of their wrist, transform a blank page into a masterpiece. Their imaginations are as vast as the Chesapeake Bay, creating fantastical worlds out of clay, and constructing castles with popsicle sticks and glue. One day, you might see Shelly helping a young artist in Annapolis sculpt a crab out of clay, its pincers raised in salute. The next day, she might be in Bethesda, helping another crafty kid string together a necklace of colorful beads, as vibrant as a sunrise on Chesapeake Bay. Shelly and the kids of Maryland make quite the team. Despite their wildly different sizes, Shelly the Snail and these pint-sized Picassos create the most magical, vibrant and wacky art this side of the Mississippi. With paper, glue, and a sprinkling of imagination, they make Maryland the most colorful state of all!
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Dear Families, Welcome to the wonderful world of Swift Nature Camp an overnight camp for boys and girls ages 6-15 located in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director, and I’m thrilled to share what makes SNC such a special place for kids and families alike. For nearly 30 years, our mission has been to create an environment where children can grow, discover, and make lifelong memories. Here at camp, we focus on friendship, personal development, and a deep connection to nature—all in a fun, supportive, and adventurous setting. All this without cell phones One of the things that sets Swift Nature Camp apart is our focus on fostering independence and confidence. Whether it’s trying a new activity like canoeing, taking on a leadership role in a group project, or simply navigating life away from home, camp provides endless opportunities for personal growth. We celebrate each camper’s unique personality and encourage them to step outside their comfort zone in a safe and nurturing way. Seeing kids gain new skills and pride in their accomplishments is one of the most rewarding parts of what we do. For our youngest campers, Discovery Camp is an especially magical experience. Designed only for first-time campers ages 6-12, this shorter program gives kids a chance to experience the joys of camp life in a way that’s just right for them. It’s amazing to watch these kids try new things—from learning about the natural world to singing campfire songs—and leave camp with big smiles and even bigger stories to tell. Discovery Camp is often the beginning of a long and cherished relationship with SNC, and we’re so proud to see those first-time campers grow into confident and capable young people. Another cornerstone of Swift Nature Camp is our connection to the environment. We believe that nature isn’t just a backdrop for camp; it’s a teacher, a playground, and a source of endless wonder. Through hands-on activities like pond studies, wildlife observation, and outdoor adventures, campers develop an appreciation for the natural world that stays with them long after camp ends. The Camp Zoo is always a favorite, campers can even adopt a pet while at camp.Our goal is to inspire kids to become curious, mindful stewards of the environment. At Swift Nature Camp, there’s never a dull day! With hundreds of land and water activities, campers are always engaged and excited. On land, some favorites include the Lego Cabin, Arts & Crafts, Archery, and exploring the Nature Center. On the water, campers learn Canoeing, Fishing, and Swimming, but the absolute favorites are Tubing behind the boat and jumping off the Water Trampoline. Never is there a dull day because every day is packed with fun, adventure, and opportunities to try something new. Of course, none of this would be possible without the amazing friendships that form here. SNC is a place where kids truly feel like they belong. Campers and counselors alike bring warmth, kindness, and enthusiasm to everything we do, creating a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cheering each other on during a game, collaborating on a creative project, or sharing laughs around the campfire, the bonds formed at Swift Nature Camp are something truly special. Thank you for entrusting us with your children. It’s an honor to be part of their journey and to help create memories that will last a lifetime. If you have any questions or just want to chat about camp, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can’t wait to see what the next camp season holds and to welcome your family to another amazing summer at Swift Nature Camp.
At Baltimore's Jewish Day Camp, we are dedicated to creating an unforgettable summer experience for every camper! We strive to push each and every child to their potential while maintaining a safe, fun, and healthy environment. Our creative and loving staff are committed to providing fun-filled days of adventure and excitement. We take pride in being part of the B'JDC family, and look forward to welcoming your child into our community!