Child Development Tips

How to Win Arguments Without Losing Your Cool

Arguments can be stressful, especially when dealing with loved ones. Eric Barker’s article on “How to Win Arguments” offers valuable insights that intentional parents can use. Below are some key strategies from the article and how they can foster healthy communication in your family. (Full article here at: Barking Up The Wrong Tree) Keep Your Cool If someone is throwing a tantrum, remember to be the cool cucumber. Label your emotions internally and focus on their left eye. It sounds weird, but it works! Focus on Facts, Not Feelings When […]

Simple Ways to Experience Other Cultures: A Guide for Intentional Parents

As parents, we all want to raise well-rounded children who understand and appreciate the world beyond their immediate surroundings. One way to do this is by exposing them to different cultures, fostering empathy, tolerance, and curiosity. Here are some simple ways to do just that, many of which you can incorporate into your everyday routine. Benefits of Exposure to Other Cultures for Your Child’s Personal Development As intentional parents, it’s essential to provide opportunities for our children to grow emotionally and socially by exposing them to different cultures. These experiences […]

The Power of Rituals: Helping Your Child Thrive

In a world full of distractions, finding meaningful ways to connect can feel like a challenge. But there is power in rituals—simple, repeated actions—to offer a powerful solution. This blog explores how they can transform your family dynamic and support your child’s development. What Are Rituals, Anyway? Rituals are those quirky, repetitive actions we perform that don’t seem to accomplish anything tangible. Yet, they’re a universal part of human culture. From birthday parties to bedtime routines, rituals are everywhere in our lives. Why Rituals Matter Rituals are more than habits. […]

The Power of Gratitude: A Parent’s Secret to Raising Resilient Kids

Gratitude isn’t just a feel-good habit; it’s a proven game-changer. Studies suggest that practicing gratitude can enhance happiness, improve relationships, and even boost health. As intentional parents, teaching gratitude can set your child on a path toward personal and social success. Inspired by a blog post from Eric Barker, here’s a practical guide for intentional parents to nurture the quality in their children. The Power of Gratitude The story of renowned author Stephen King is a testament to the power of gratitude. After surviving a horrific accident, he focused on […]

Raising Resilient Kids: A Parent’s Guide

Because life throws challenges at all of us, helping your child build resilience is one of the greatest gifts you can offer. Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about bouncing forward, growing stronger with each setback. Inspired by a blog post from Eric Barker, here’s a practical guide for intentional parents to nurture resilience in their children. Why Resilience Matters Resilience is the foundation for success, happiness, and well-being. Resilient kids handle disappointments, manage stress, and thrive in the face of uncertainty. Think about the long-term: a resilient child grows […]

Happy Holidays from Camp!

Happy holidays! The holiday season is here—a time for family, reflection, and those little moments that make life special. At Camp Kupugani, this time of year always reminds us of the joy that comes from connection and community. While the campfires are out for now, the lessons and memories from summer still shine bright. Let’s explore how you can keep the camp spirit alive during the holidays. Spread Kindness, Camp Style At camp, acts of kindness are woven into daily life. From sharing a laugh with a new friend to […]

Coping with Summer Camp Deprivation in December

Oh, summer camp deprivation! It was mid-December, and the snow outside had turned the world into a frosty wonderland. But inside, my daughter was sulking. “I miss camp,” she said, her voice heavy with nostalgia. The late-night cabin talks, the thrill of conquering the rock climbing wall, and even the soggy socks from lake adventures were all on her mind. As an intentional parent, I felt her pain—and I knew we needed to find a way to bring a bit of camp magic into our winter routine. Understanding Camp Deprivation […]

How to Host Your Own Campfire at Home

There’s something magical about gathering around a campfire. The flicker of flames, the crackle of wood, and the cozy warmth bring people together like nothing else. Even if you’re not in the woods at camp, you can recreate this experience at home. Hosting a campfire is a fantastic way for intentional parents to create lasting memories while teaching valuable life skills. So, if you’re looking for a fun and meaningful way to bond with your kids, why not bring the magic of summer camp right to your backyard with a […]

The Importance of Cultural Competence in Summer Camps: Why It Matters for Your Child’s Growth

As parents, we want our children to grow up with an understanding and appreciation of different cultures. We hope they develop empathy, respect, and the ability to navigate a diverse world. One way to help them develop these important traits is by choosing the right summer camp. However, not all camps are created equal when it comes to cultural competence. Did you know that by 2050, according to the US Census Bureau, an estimated 1 in 3 Americans will be African American, Hispanic, Native American, or Asian? Yet, many summer […]

Why Being a Parent is Scary (And How to Embrace It)

Parenting is one of the most rewarding yet terrifying experiences we can go through. The stakes are high because we care so deeply about our children. We want the best for them, but it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the responsibility. If you’re a parent who’s ever had sleepless nights worrying about your kiddo(s), you’re not alone. The Reality of Modern Parenting It’s no secret that being a parent today comes with challenges. According to a Pew Research Center survey, 60% of parents say parenting is harder now than it […]

Life Lessons from Summer Camp: What Your Child Can Learn

Camp experiences can shape a child’s development in profound ways. As intentional parents, it’s essential to understand the benefits of these environments. Here, we’ll explore key life lessons that summer camps, like Camp Kupugani, teach kids and how these lessons can support your parenting goals. Independence and Self-Reliance One of the most significant benefits of camp is fostering independence. According to a study by the American Camp Association (ACA), 70% of campers reported feeling more self-reliant after their time at camp. When kids navigate new challenges without their parents, they […]

An End-of-Summer Letter from the Camp Director

Reflecting on a Summer of Growth As the end of summer approaches, I reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared with your children at Camp Kupugani. It’s been a season full of adventure, learning, and growth—both for the campers and for us as staff. Summer camp is more than just fun and games. Camp provides a unique opportunity for personal development that isn’t found in other environments. The Power of Community and Connection One of the most remarkable aspects of camp is the sense of community. Campers learn to build […]