Advocates restoring vision of early outdoor education leaders for the welfare of children and the strengthening of society through enlightened policy of recruitment, sensitive appraisal of camp activities, and realistic staff training programs. Details purposes and activities to include in 15-25 hour staff field training model. (NEC)

Research suggests eight universal features that should be present in all youth development programs. Each feature is named and described, opposite poles are noted, and camp-specific actions to incorporate the feature are listed. A flow chart presents a series of questions to help camp administrators determine whether these features are present in…

The features of positive youth development settings, identified in recent research, are applied to camp program planning, staff selection, and comprehensive program evaluation. A web-like model of positive features of the program's organizational and social environment provides a systemic viewpoint. (TD)

Reviews child developmental stages proposed by Piaget and Erikson. Suggests camping can provide a relief valve for children pressured by society to grow up too quickly. Recommends evaluation of three program areas--readiness of child for camp, appropriateness of camp activities for age group; design of camp schedule to reduce stress. (LFL)

Provides selected 14-item outdoor-environmental education bibliography and 20-item checklist of factors weekend/summer camp directors should consider when pondering entry into the outdoor education market. Covers issues of camp philosophy, staff, facilities additions/alterations, equipment, food service, competition, environmental impact,…