In the heart of the land known as North Carolina (or NC for those in a hurry), where the blue misty mountains meet the sighing ocean waves, you'll find a truly remarkable bunch of kids. Now, these aren't your run-of-the-mill, staring-at-screens-all-day kids. No, siree! These are the Tai Chi kids of NC! You see, NC is a land of magic and mystery, where trees whisper ancient secrets, and rivers hum melodious tunes. Inspired by this harmony, these kids have traded in their video game controllers for the fluid movements and graceful poses of Tai Chi. They're the kind of kids who can balance on one toe while doing their math homework, just because they can! Now, leading this troupe of mindful kiddos is a mystical character named Twirling Turtle. With his shell shinier than a disco ball and his eyes twinkling with mischief, Twirling Turtle is the oldest and wisest turtle in NC. Legend has it he's been around since the very first hushpuppy was fried! Twirling Turtle, with his slow yet sure movements, teaches the children the art of Tai Chi. He performs each move with a hilarious twist. Imagine watching a turtle trying to 'Part the Wild Horse's Mane' while sneezing or executing the 'White Crane Spreads its Wings' with a hiccup! The kids giggle and guffaw, but they never forget the moves they learn amidst all the laughter. So, if you ever find yourself traveling through the enchanting NC, you might just spot this band of Tai Chi kids, led by a big, old shiny turtle, moving in perfect harmony with the wind, learning, laughing, and loving every bit of their Tai Chi journey.
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Dear Families, (currently our website is under construction) 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 Carolina Martial Arts, they offer Aikido, Kempo/Kenpo, and Shotokan Karate classes for kids, men, and women in Matthews, NC. Located at 14017 E Independence Blvd., their well-run facility is the perfect place for anyone to learn the ancient art of martial arts. The experienced instructors at Carolina Martial Arts will help you find the right class for your skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced martial artist, they’ll make sure you get the most out of your class. They also hold an annual tournament, the Carolina Open, that offers a safe and fun environment for everyone.