Day Camp Counselor (ages 6 - 11)

The Discovery School Day Camp is a special place for children to have fun, grow new friendships, discover nature, and have the freedom to be themselves! We strive to inspire a culture of kindness, curiosity, and connection to one another as well as the world around us. Our Discovery kids spend their days exploring our 7 acre nature campus - climbing in our nature playground, building forts in the woods, relaxing by the pond, creating art, playing group games, working in the garden, and having water fun!

PRIMARY PURPOSE: Woodland Wonders counselors guide, support, and inspire campers every day.

Your work helps create a safe, fun, and enriching camp experience. You’ll be responsible for overseeing

a group of campers throughout the daily schedule. You’ll help lead and facilitate programming including

group time, Discovery Stations, and gatherings at the Foxes’ FirePit.

Responsibilities & Expectations

Professionalism & Collaboration

● Report rested, on time, and with consistent attendance for the entire 8-week session.

● Communicate any necessary absences as early as possible.

● Build positive and professional relationships with campers, their families, and fellow staff.

● Support and uphold the mission and policies of The Discovery School Day Camp.

● Show initiative in problem solving, stay open to new ideas, and approach challenges with creativity

and a sense of humor.

● Respect individual differences, including learning styles, cultures, and points of view.

● Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information about children or families.

● Model healthy conflict resolution by directly and respectfully addressing issues with those involved

and working collaboratively toward solutions.

Camper Safety & Well-Being

● Ensure the physical and emotional safety of campers at all times.

● Document and report any incidents promptly; communicate with parents as required.

● Follow The Discovery School health, safety, and emergency protocols.

● Be prepared to lift or support children (~50 lbs or more) when needed.

● Regularly review camper information (names, approved pick-ups, allergies, lunches, etc.) and stay

informed about individual needs.

● Follow state regulations regarding incidents of abuse or neglect.

● Be able to remain calm and follow the Emergency Plan in the event of an emergency.

Program Delivery & Camp Operations

● Use the Jumbula app to access camper profiles and communicate with families.

● Keep camp spaces clean, organized, and safe.

● Build positive relationships with campers, fostering self-esteem, inclusion, and growth.

● Implement a positive discipline approach, consistent with our Code Of Conduct.

● Report any signs of illness, injury, or emotional distress to the camp director.

● Lead all scheduled programs: run Discovery Stations (setup & clean-up), guide group activities,

games, transitions (including meals and cleanup), and lead Foxes’ FirePit sessions (songs, skits,

activities).

● Greet families by name at drop-off/pick-up and share positive highlights about their child’s day (with respect for privacy and sensitivity when necessary).

● Support an inclusive environment for campers with diverse abilities by implementing the

accommodations and strategies specified in their individual camper plans.

● Facilitate activities indoors or outdoors in all weather conditions, across the camp’s 7-acre nature

campus.

● Be able to physically move, lift, squat, climb, sit, and fully participate in active camp routines.

Qualifications

● Must be 18+ years of age by June 1st.

● High school diploma required. A college degree (or coursework) in a child-related field (e.g., Early

Childhood or Elementary Education) is preferred.

● Genuine enthusiasm for working with children and their families.

● Willingness to secure all required clearances and certifications, valid through August 1, 2026:

• ○ PA Criminal Background Check *
• ○ PA Child Abuse Check *
• ○ FBI Criminal Background Check *
• ○ NSOR
• ○ Act 31 Online Training *

● Willing to obtain CPR and First Aid certification during paid staff training week.

● Strong organizational, time-management, and multitasking skills.

● Ability to stay positive, collaborative, and composed under pressure.

● Excellent communication skills to connect and collaborate with children, families, and camp staff.

What We Offer & Our Commitment

This is more than a summer job, it’s a chance to impact children’s lives, build meaningful

connections, and grow as a leader and educator.

● Competitive hourly pay ($18/hr).

● All required training and CPR / First Aid certification provided and paid for.

● Opportunity to work in a supportive, values-driven environment that prioritizes children’s growth,

safety, and inclusion.

● Hands-on experience leading programs, activities, and outdoor adventures.

● The satisfaction of helping children build confidence, friendships, and a love for nature and

community.

The Discovery School is fully committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and to attracting, retaining, developing and promoting the most qualified employees without regard to their race, gender, color, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, citizenship status, veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited by state or local law. We are dedicated to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment, and where employees are treated with respect and dignity.