“We live in NYC so it was a dream to come to beautiful VT with lovely families adopting from China. It was safe, clean with inspired vision for collective community in a natural friendly environment.” Anne ~ New York
As we celebrate our 17th year, our family camp programs remain as popular as ever, drawing families from all over the United States and abroad. This summer we'll be offering three fabulous weeks of our Camp Common Ground programs in Starksboro, Vermont.
For general times and programs, please keep reading. More information about who exactly is teaching what which week will be updated at a later date.
Arrival and Departure: All of our programs this summer run from Saturday to Friday. Meals will begin with dinner on arrival day, and will end with breakfast on departure day. Your camper packet, received after registering, will contain more details including directions, packing lists, program information and more.
A Typical Day Might Look Like . . .
6:30 - 7:30 am - Yoga
The days at camp start with Yoga for those who wish to participate. Others may prefer to catch a little extra sleep before heading to the dining hall for breakfast.
7:30 - 8:30 am - Scrumptious Breakfast
8:45 - 12:00 - Morning Programs for Kids (a mid-morning snack will be served)
Children's programs meet at the Kid Barn. Three to five year olds are offered a variety of arts and music activities, with ample opportunity to explore the natural wonders of our site. Older children enjoy numerous outdoor activities - group games, sports, hiking and nature exploration, jumping rope, boat-building and boat-racing on the creek. The Kid Barn has a large indoor space with a basketball hoop, ping pong table, and a variety of arts and crafts materials, books, and board games. Our staff works to create an environment of caring and compassion each day. Click here for photos.
Childcare for children two and under can be arranged for an additional fee with advanced notice.
9:00 - 11:45 - Morning Adult Programs
Adults and older teens can pursue their own interests through exciting courses offered each morning. This time is split into two morning periods (9-10:15 and 10:30-11:45) , although some courses will run all morning. Our adult program teachers are professionals who have lots of experience teaching and practicing their craft. Typical classes offered include:
- Arts: Such as watercolors, pastels, pottery, print making, silk painting, floor cloths, glass bead making and writing. Click here for photos.
- Music: Such as singing, chanting, samba, chamber music, guitar, piano, and drumming. Click here for photos.
- Wellness: Physical and mental - Such as massage, meditation, Reiki I & II, and non-violent communicaiton. Click here for photos.
- Movement: Such as yoga, dance, hiking, sports, chi gung and tai chi have been offered. Click here for photos.
12:00 - Camper Circle - Kids & Adults meet together
12:30 - 1:15 - Scrumptious Lunch
1:15 - 2:15 - Quiet & Rest Hour
1:00 - 4:00 - Teen Program
Teen campers will be contacted by their group leader prior to camp to find out their goals for the week and set up a schedule of activities for the group. There will also be an SIT (Staff-In-Training) program offered. Teens in the past have chosen, among other things, jewelry making, videography, photography, guitar lessons and off-site adventures. Our location on the mountain offers wonderful possibilities for overnight adventure!
2:30 - 4:30 Afternoon Multi - Age Programming
Program offerings during the afternoons are not divided by age, but are geared to the whole family. Our first period after lunch is a quiet time, for napping and impromptu activities. Second period activities will include on-site exploration, multi-age classes and off-site trips. We are bringing back Camper Samplers this year where campers can teach about something they love. On Thursdays there are usually some special events such as a carnival or concert on the lawn.
2:30 - 5:00 - Swimming Excursions
Swimming is a big part of the afternoon with dips in our two-acre pond, the creek, and trips to local swimming spots!
5:15 - 6:00 - Music & Singing on the Porch
6:00 - 7:00 -Delicious Dinner
6:30 - 7:00 - Games for Fast Eaters
While adults may linger over their meal, children who have finished can choose to participate in group activities called "Games for Fast Eaters", organized by the children's staff. Adults are free to participate as well.
7:15 - 8:30 Evening Activities
Our evening program begins after dinner with an activity for everyone, such as African dance, group games, campfires, storytelling, live music, and popcorn eating. Of course there is the end of the week extravaganza, the Big Show on Thursday night where everyone is encouraged to strut their stuff.
9:00 - All Camp Quiet Time
The diehards may still play quiet games and chat until the wee hours. However, please respect our neighbors and other campers by refraining from any loud noises or activities. Our state and local permits prohibit us from making noise that can be heard past our boundaries (and noise carries quite well down the creek).