1
UNPLUGGING FROM AN
ONLINE WORLD
In the ‘70s and ‘80s, daytime television
was limited to soap operas and game shows, a
lineup that would make any kid bored enough
to turn off the TV and head outside.
There wasn’t the lure of limitless video
games and social media websites. Not to
mention, the word cyber-bullying didn’t
even exist. Simply put, it’s hard not to be
overwhelmed with electronics today. But a
camp provides kids with a temporary respite.
“We pride ourselves in being completely
unplugged,” said Yonko. “We’re surrounded
by 120 acres of nature, nestled in Fairview.
Our cell phone service is very limited.
So there is not a lot of ability to connect.
Philosophically we feel that’s a good thing.
We tell parents that campers should leave
their devices at home.”
2
GETTING A TASTE OF
INDEPENDENCE & ADVENTURE
Our culture of constant connectedness
through cell phones often makes it difficult
for parents to let their kids be inaccessible for
a whole week. But Yonko explains that this is
a chance for a child to write a letter and have
the excitement of receiving a letter or care
package at mail call.
It’s also a chance for kids to make a few of
their own choices and explore on their own.
“The counselors teach them how to build a
campfire and tell them stories. In the middle of
the week they put on a big scavenger hunt,” says
Yonko. “These are some of the creative parts of
camp that are so unique. It’s not something you
can buy or find in a video game.”
3
LEARNING HOW TO MAKE
NEW FRIENDS THE OLD
FASHIONED WAY
Yonko says that most campers come to
camp knowing at least one other kid, but by
the end of the week they inevitably have made
new friendships, some that last a lifetime.
“Bunking in a cabin with a dozen other kids
and a counselor for an entire week, they get
to know each other
quite well. During
the week they
spend time team
building, bonding
and working toward
common goals,” he
said. “They start off
not so sure about
it. But soon they
break down the
barriers.” He added
that things like
songs, skits and the
counselors acting
silly and crazy helps the campers to get more
comfortable and to not be afraid to act silly
themselves. This all contributes to the perfect
environment for new friendships to blossom.
4
GETTING DOWN RIGHT DIRTY
According to Yonko, a highlight every
week at Camp Notre Dame is what they refer
to as the “Amazon Hike.” Campers walk in
and along a stream until they arrive at Lake
Erie where they can play in clay pits and get
completely covered in mud. “After that their
clothes will never be the same again,” says
Yonko. “We advise parents not to send their
kids’ best stuff.” He adds with a laugh that
campers’ luggage doubles in weight over the
course of the week with the addition of dirt
and rocks.
Contrary to what you might think, getting
dirty does not come naturally to many
kids; some struggle with it because it is not
something they are normally allowed to do.
But Yonko says that getting messy shouldn’t
be thought of as a bad thing. “If you’re really
going to experience life, you have to get dirty
sometimes, and immerse yourself in it, and
enjoy it!”
5
EXPLORING NATURE OR
“TURNING A FERN”
A favorite saying at Camp Notre Dame,
which was coined by one of its counselors, is
“Turn a Fern.” What is meant by the phrase
is that when you take the time to turn