Initial Thoughts Before the Initial Meeting

When I found out that I would be spending my summer with kids from a city over a thousand miles away, I really didn’t know what to think.  I knew it would be a great experience, because kids are pretty great in generally, but I didn’t know exactly how I would be able to relate. 

I figured that most of these campers would have absolutely no idea about where I was from, and if they did, it would probably be based on stereotypes.  However, I soon realized that we were in the exact same boat.  This would be my very first trip so far away from home and I knew very little about the area, other than the various things I had heard through the media.

A particular preconceived notion I had was that the kids would be very innocent.  Before, whenever I thought of kids in general, I pictured bright-eyed kids overflowing with happiness and curiosity.  My conception of childhood was a little too romanticized.  Although some children certainly fall in this category, many of the kids I talk to are very aware of their surroundings and the ‘real world’ for better or worse. 

I have interacted with kids who already have serious baggage because of outside influences, the most common being family.  It does distress me that some kids do have to experience such harsh realities at such a young age, but I do think Camp can provide somewhat of an escape from that.

Recently, I had another preconceived notion proven and then dis-proven.  At my young age, I figured I would be at least able to relate to the kids on certain aspects of pop culture.  So far, I was doing a pretty passable job.  One day in particular the campers were talking about their favorite Pokémon.  I watched the show as a kid so I jumped in the conversation.  I was quickly introduced to the wrong side of the ‘generation gap’ as they started using terminology that was well beyond my, apparent, basic understanding of the series.

Overall, I believe I kept an open mind as I entered into my position.  The kids of Baltimore are just like the kids of any other area.  Because this is my first time working with kids this age I continue to be impressed with their ability and knowledge. I am proud to serve such talented kids.