Forest Lake Camp for Girls: Philosophy

As noted previously, Forest Lake Camp for Girls is both an entity of its own, as well as part of a greater whole.

Our philosophy is to create an atmosphere that is not socially pressured, and allows each camper to be her own unique self. An important part of the FLC experience is establish a supportive atmosphere where girls can bond together in ways that reinforce the best parts of being a girl. The size of Forest Lake allows the girls to form a relationship and bond with every camper and staff. We know that for girls the relationships and bonds they form are better if they are close. When everyone has a chance to get to know each other, a family atmosphere is easily created.

FLC for Girls is also about developing new skills for life. This includes a program and environment setup to help girls gain specific skills in our activites while also becoming a better friend. It includes learning a new song or playing an instrument, and learning how to live away from home and with a diverse set of friends, new and old.. It’s about trying everything our program has to offer whether they are already experienced or are trying something for the first time.

In the hectic schedule our children work within during the school year social pressures often make it difficult for girls to feel comfortable trying new things; particularly where one might feel like she could fail. A single-sex atmosphere is one of the only places that a girl has the freedom to try new things which often leads to the discovery of activities she learns to love and is very capable of. The freedom to take that step towards trying something outside her comfort zone is one of the most important parts of our camp.

One such example that is often discussed in the Girls Camp is the singing that takes place in the Mess Hall. On occasion we have visitors that eat with us, and unless they have been to camp before, are usually in for a unique experience. When our girls begin singing and cheering at the end of mealtime, a stunned look usually crosses their face. A smile and giggle escapes (whether a female or male, it doesn’t matter). It is not hard to see the joy that spreads across the room. They are a witness to a unique experience unlike anything they may have seen before. The unabashed joy heard in the girls’ voices clearly demonstrates the spirit of life that exists within all the girls and makes you wonder why we don’t do it more often at home!