In the charming state of Virginia, tucked between the grand Blue Ridge Mountains and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, a peculiar little bunch of children known as the Green Thumb Goblins were causing quite the stir. These kids were not your ordinary play-in-the-mud-and-eat-ice-cream-for-breakfast kind of kids. No, they were on a mission, a mission to turn every inch of Virginia into a blooming paradise! Each Green Thumb Goblin had a special gardening power, thanks to their magical gardening gloves. Little Benny could make the tallest sunflower in a minute, Suzie could create a rainbow of pansies with a simple wave of her hand, and Tommy, oh Tommy, he could grow a pumpkin the size of a car! The leader of the Goblin gang was Granny Gerty, a sweet old lady with twinkling eyes and a laugh that could scare away the hungriest of rabbits and the cheekiest of squirrels. Every day, they would dash out of their homes in towns like Richmond, Virginia Beach, and even the small town of Abingdon, to work their magic on gardens, parks, and any small patch of land they could find. As they worked, they would laugh, sing, and sometimes, they would even break into an impromptu mud fight, because, well, they were kids after all! Their passion for everything green and blooming was infectious. Before long, Virginia was sparkling with beautiful flowers and lush greenery. The Green Thumb Goblins had transformed the Old Dominion into the Bloom-inion, a paradise for everyone who loved nature. They reminded everyone that with a little bit of magic and a whole lot of love, even the tiniest seed could turn into the tallest tree.
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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.
And now, with the opening of our Ballston center, families have access to the same innovative, high-quality childcare and early education our company has been trusted for over 30 years. The Bright Horizons Ballston center offers full-day, full-year care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years old. Our creative and caring teachers provide the very best early education and nurturing environment, helping to ensure your child's development and success. Plus, families can take advantage of our convenient on-site amenities, such as our clean and modern playground and our spacious and welcoming classrooms. Our commitment to providing the best childcare and early education extends beyond the walls of our Ballston center. Bright Horizons also offers solutions for employers, such as back-up care and eldercare, as well as employee benefits like college savings plans and tuition discounts. With more than 30 years of experience, we remain a trusted partner for families and employers.