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Insights from our summer camp

Return to our posts for more heartwarming tales, insightful reflections, and exciting adventures of our campers and staff in our blog section.

Writer's pictureKate Dadourian

Cruise Control: The Power of Adaptability and Magic

I just returned from a amazing Disney Cruise on the Wish with some of my family, and what was supposed to be a 4-night adventure quickly turned into something unexpected. Due to Hurricane Milton, our cruise turned into a 6-night journey, as Port Canaveral remained closed for an extra two days. With over 4,000 passengers and more than 1,500 crew members, this could have been a logistical disaster. But, in true Disney fashion, they turned what could have been a stressful situation into something magical.


In the midst of uncertainty, I witnessed Disney’s legendary attention to detail and commitment to its guests. From the extra activities planned to keep everyone entertained, to the constant communication and updates, Disney made sure the "magic" didn't falter. There was no shortage of smiles, and the crew went above and beyond to maintain a sense of joy and calm. From the Captain on down through the crew, they all continued to embody Disney’s spirit of service and positivity. It got me thinking about the parallels to camp life.


Adaptability in the Face of the Unexpected


At Camp Rippling Brook, much like on our extended cruise, adaptability is one of the most important skills we foster in both campers and staff. Whether it’s a sudden storm that forces us to move our campfire indoors or a scheduling change that requires us to think on our feet, being flexible and maintaining a positive attitude are key to ensuring a great camp experience. Just as Disney turned a potential disaster into an extended magical adventure, we at camp, work to create memorable moments, even when plans go awry.


Camp teaches kids how to handle the unexpected with resilience and creativity. We show them that when things don’t go as planned, there’s always an opportunity for new adventures. Whether we’re navigating a change in weather or a shift in activities, we approach challenges with the same spirit of fun and excitement that Disney does so well.


Creating Magic in the Everyday


Disney is known for its “pixie dust” – those small, magical details that turn an ordinary experience into something extraordinary. This trip reminded me of how we strive to do the same at Camp Rippling Brook. Whether it’s a counselor adding a surprise twist to a familiar game, or creating a special camp tradition that campers will remember for years to come, it’s those little things that make camp feel like more than just a summer program. It’s about creating a space where kids feel special, supported, and encouraged to be their best selves.


Just like on our cruise, where the crew continuously went out of their way to make every guest feel taken care of, camp counselors do the same for their campers. From taking that The bond between a counselor and camper, built on trust and care, is what makes the camp experience truly magical. Camp is about more than just the activities we plan – it’s about creating an environment where campers can grow, thrive, and have fun, no matter the circumstances.


Bringing Home the Lessons


Returning from this Disney trip, I’m reminded of how valuable these lessons are not just for big events, but for everyday life. Whether we’re on a Disney cruise, at camp, or simply navigating our daily routines, we are constantly faced with moments that require flexibility, patience, and a positive outlook. Disney's handling of our extended cruise taught me that with the right attitude and a bit of extra effort, any challenge can become an opportunity for something even better.


As we move into our next camp season, I’m excited to continue with these lessons of adaptability and magic at Camp Rippling Brook. Whether it’s creating surprise moments of joy or helping campers navigate the unexpected, we’ll continue to sprinkle our own version of “pixie dust” over everything we do. Because in the end, it’s not about what happens to us, but how we respond – with a little creativity, a lot of heart, and the belief that we can turn any challenge into an unforgettable experience.


Here’s to another summer of magic at Camp Rippling Brook!

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