Another Summer at Camp Brodie
As a working mother of two children, I have come to rely on, and greatly appreciate, New Hartford's Camp Brodie. I still remember the first time I brought my kids to Brodie. I was looking for a summer program that would let me kids be outside and really experience summer - the way I remember it as a kid. I must admit, I was somewhat skeptical - after all, it was technically the town's Park & Rec summer program, and after years of encountering cement playgrounds, battered picnic tables, and town pools, I really had low expectations. Imagine my surprise when I saw grass fields, cabins, a main hall (Berkshire Hall), woods, the lake, and a beach! Just like a real camp, I thought.
Now, in our fifth year at the camp, my kids still look forward to Camp Brodie each summer. They've tried other camps, but their choice is still Camp Brodie. I'm not sure if it's the opportunity to be outside all day; the busy, yet relaxing atmosphere; or the friendly staff; but each spring I ask them what they want to do during the summer, and they continue to say, "I want to go to Camp Brodie." Their days at Camp Brodie are filled with games, arts and crafts, swimming, and just plain old fun being outdoors. What more could you want as a kid?
As I mentioned earlier, I work full-time. I'm not always able to get out of work in time, or make other arrangements, to pick my kids up at the end of the day. I really appreciate the Extended Day option, and the flexibility it gives. It really allows me to work as I need to, and still provide my kids with a true summer experience. The Extended Day is truly just that, more time at camp. Needless to say, my kids do not mind staying at camp a little longer when they have to!
As a parent, though, one of the things that impresses me the most about the camp is the staff. They are responsible, reliable, and according to my kids, fun! They really seem to enjoy working at the camp, and the fact that many of them return year after year says something very positive about the camp, too. My kids have already mentioned that they want to eventually be CIT's and then counselors at Camp Brodie when they are older. We'll see, but if they do get the opportunity, I know that they will be expected to be responsible, reliable counselors...and will continue to enjoy their summers at Camp Brodie.
--Holly K.