Machon (entering 10th grade) is our second oldest aidah (age division) in camp. Our Machon campers take on more responsibility in many areas of their summer. One of the highlights of the Machon summer is the partnership with Tikvah, our division for campers with learning, social and communication difficulties. Tikvah campers have almost the same schedule as Machon campers and Machon and Tikvah campers are paired up in a variety of activities, from sports to swimming to activity areas and more. Campers in both Machon and Tikvah learn and grow from their interactions with each other.
Machon campers start their day off with tarbut (cultural activities). For the first half of the summer, they participated in tarbut Intensives. They spent several periods each day in one activity area in order to create a project or further their skill. Campers in the nagarut (woodworking) intensive, for example, created a bench to go on the Garbage Trail (the track around camp). During the second part of the summer, they still only have one activity (as opposed to other campers who participate in several tarbut on a rotation basis) of their choosing, but only one period a day.
During perek bet (second period), Machon campers have swimming. They are offered a variety of elective swimming classes, based on their interests. Some of the electives include lifeguard training (they will become certified lifeguards by the end of the summer), Tikvah swim (where they are paired up with a camper in our Tikvah program) and water aerobics.
For perek gimel and daled (third and fourth periods) Machon campers participate in Jewish studies classes along with Bogrim (entering 9th grade) campers. They choose from a variety of elective courses, including classes about spirituality, prophets, leadership, Talmud and more.
After lunch and rest time, Machon campers go to sport during perek hay (fifth period). Campers choose their sports and participate in two different sports on a rotation basis. Over half of the Machon campers this summer have chosen to have one of their sports days be in Tikvah sport.
For perek vav (sixth period), Machon is in play practice. They have the last musical of the summer, so we’re expecting a great show!
Machon spends the rest of the day in various cabin and aidah activities and free time. After dinner they have peulat erev (evening activity), which is often a fun game or play activity. Campers take some responsibility in shaping their various cabin and aidah activities. They are divided into groups of 6-7 campers and a counselor. Each week these groups check in at “family meetings” and set goals for the week based on activities they’d like to see.
Our Machon campers are currently on their Trip around Wisconsin. We’ll post photos and updates as they check in with us on the road!
