Science of Fun Counselor in Training Program 2023
Ages 12 + (and rising 6th graders) may apply to this CIT program
Ages 10 & 11 should go to the Jr CIT program instead
application deadline May 1, 2023
Families,
We are thrilled that you are interested in the Science of Fun Counselor In Training (CIT) Program for students who are age 12 and above (rising 6th graders also qualify). Students who demonstrate maturity, patience, helpfulness, responsibility, and who enjoy working with younger kids are encouraged to pursue this opportunity. CITs help set up and complete labs plus they actively help the younger campers and staff members.
New for 2023, students who successfully complete the CIT program will be awarded a Science of Fun Counselor in Training Certificate at the end of the summer. The purpose of the CIT program is for tweens to have age-appropriate pre-work experience. This is a safe first step for them to learn job responsibility and accountability. Just like in a real job, applicants fill out a (simple) online application, complete a (friendly) interview, and request (teacher) recommendations. At camp, CITs wear a uniform (SOF T-shirt, name tag) and will be assigned age-appropriate tasks such as helping check-in campers, helping oversee an activity, setting up and breaking down labs. We’ll coach them to develop good work habits such as being punctual, completing tasks, wearing their uniform, and developing interpersonal skills. Our days are filled with fun experiments yet our CITs will find that interpersonal skills and working with kids takes a lot of patience and practice! It’s much harder to be a CIT than it was to be a camper!
Please see our camp schedule, locations, and details here. CITs may join us all summer or just for the sessions that fit their schedule. We have a minimum summer requirement of three weeks. (The Jr CIT program ages 10 & 11 does not have a minimum attendance requirement). CITs are required M-F 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. each day; they are welcome to stay more but not less (we are open 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., occasionally 5:30 p.m.) Families pay regular camp tuition minus a 20% CIT discount and free extended care, if applicable. Note: additional promotional rates and discounts cannot be used in addition to the 20% CIT discount.
We provide valuable mentorship and supervised training that will help participants continue to develop their leadership skills, personal responsibility, and pre-work experience. The deadline to apply for the summer is April 1,2023.
Here are the next steps:
Please scroll down and review the CIT expectations, below.
The program requires TWO current or recent teachers to fill out a brief, checklist-style questionnaire. Please have the teachers’ names and work email addresses ready for the CIT Interest Form, below. We will forward our checklist to them. Please let the teachers know to expect an email from us, the Science of Fun STEM Camp.
Please fill out this CIT Interest Form. The applicant should fill out this form as independently as possible). The Interest form must be submitted by April 1 for summer camp applicants.
Once the applicant is accepted into the program you will be given an event passcode so you can register for camp online. Use the promo code "CIT" at checkout for 20% off. Do not register for any extended care even if CITs will arrive early/stay late. Please also add "CIT" to the comments of the registration form.
Science of Fun guidelines for Counselors in Training
Bring lunch, 2+ snacks, and a labeled water bottle. Do not bring any technology: no phones, no smart watches, no computers, no devices. In case of an emergency you may communicate with your parents through the Supervisor’s phone. Please make your transportation arrangements before you arrive.
Pay attention to the lab instructions so you can help the younger kids. Be prepared to clearly re-explain what to do. Circulate and help.
Keep the bookbag, lunchbox, and coat area (if applicable) tidy.
Put things where they belong; help keep the camp organized.
Help the campers clean up after their labs. Sweep & pick-up trash.
During recess, please remind students to follow the playground rules.
Be a role model for friendly and courteous behavior. Notice who needs help; seek out lonely, confused, and overly-energetic kids.
Do the above things without being asked.
Best,
Kris Webb and the SOF Team thescienceoffun@gmail.com
Important note for parents: Please make sure to sign your CIT out at the end of the day so we always know where they are!
Ages 12 + (and rising 6th graders) may apply to this CIT program
Ages 10 & 11 please go to the Jr CIT program instead