In this unprecedented and uncertain time, things have undoubtedly shifted and plans have needed to be altered, moving what's normally a live experience to computer screens and tablets.

Camp directors across the country are now wondering what a virtual or remote summer camp is—and how could they go about starting one. Thankfully, the American Camp Association, a nationwide leader in the camp industry for close to 25 years, has made available a step-by-step guide for creating a plan and operating a virtual summer camp.

The guide offers tips and goes into detail about these topics:

• What is a virtual summer camp and what does it even represent?
• Step 1: Time to set priorities and focus on how and where your valuable time should be spent.
• Step 2: Eliminate the tasks and responsibilities you no longer have to worry about.
• Step 3: Define your virtual camp model.
• Address the stereotypes.
• Redefine value and create more of it.
• Beware of surveying parents before you begin to plan your virtual camp.
• Set the proper expectations to families.
• Consider setting up a weekend orientation for parents and campers to join and practice using the video platform for virtual camp.
• Define your camper (customer). Try not to be everything to everyone.
• Create value with the three Cs: Connections, Culture and Communication.
• Exceed expectations. Add additional and included activities for campers and/or camper families.
• Hire for personality and energy. Yes, even for technology.
• Be very careful how you plan the camper day or session.
• Promote non-screen-time activities at the end of each session.
• Provide daily challenges for campers.

To view the guide in its entirety, click here.

Courtesy of NAA.