Unlocking Developmental Potential: Manistique's Skill Builder's Camp Empowers Young Minds

In the heart of Manistique, Michigan, a collaborative effort between Manistique Area Schools and Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital is offering a unique opportunity for children to unlock their full potential. The 'Skill Builder's Camp' is a summer program designed to nurture the social, motor, and behavioral skills of young participants, helping them meet their developmental goals in a fun and engaging environment.

Empowering Children to Thrive

Multisensory Approach to Learning

The Skill Builder's Camp takes a multisensory approach to learning, providing a diverse range of activities and environments to cater to the unique needs and preferences of each child. Led by Jennifer Carlson, a speech language pathologist, and Chelsee Larsen, an occupational therapist, the camp offers a dynamic and engaging experience. "One of our specialties that me and Jen offer is we try to take a multi-sensory approach," Larsen explains. "So, we have busy environments, quiet environments, indoor, outdoor with lots of different activities. We'll have relay games, teamwork games, cognitive tasks, movement and brain games."The camp's focus on multisensory learning ensures that children can explore and engage with the world around them in a way that resonates with their individual needs and preferences. "We do a lot of sand and integration play, so getting our hands dirty," Carlson shares. "Feeling different liquid textures, things like that, are some of the sensory ideas that we have." This hands-on, immersive approach to learning not only fosters skill development but also ignites the imagination and curiosity of the participants.

Fostering Social and Behavioral Growth

In addition to the multisensory activities, the Skill Builder's Camp places a strong emphasis on developing social and behavioral skills. Through team-building exercises, cooperative games, and cognitive tasks, children have the opportunity to practice communication, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. "We'll have relay games, teamwork games, cognitive tasks, movement and brain games," Larsen explains, highlighting the diverse range of activities designed to nurture these essential life skills.By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, the camp aims to help children build confidence, improve social interactions, and develop strategies for managing their emotions and behaviors. This holistic approach to development ensures that participants not only acquire new skills but also gain the tools to navigate the complexities of social and emotional landscapes.

Accessible to All U.P. Youth

The Skill Builder's Camp is open to all youth in the Upper Peninsula (U.P.) region, ages 3 to 12. This inclusive approach ensures that children from diverse backgrounds and with varying needs can benefit from the program. With limited space available, families are encouraged to register their children as soon as possible to secure a spot.The five-week camp runs on Thursdays from July 18 to August 15, providing a consistent and structured schedule for participants. This format allows children to build upon their skills and experiences over the course of the program, fostering a sense of continuity and progress.

Collaborative Effort for Holistic Development

The Skill Builder's Camp is a collaborative effort between Manistique Area Schools and Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, bringing together educational and healthcare professionals to create a comprehensive program. By combining their expertise and resources, the organizers are able to provide a well-rounded experience that addresses the multifaceted needs of young participants.This collaborative approach ensures that the camp's curriculum and activities are tailored to the specific developmental goals and challenges faced by children in the region. The partnership between the school district and the hospital also allows for seamless integration of the camp's services with the broader educational and healthcare systems, ensuring a holistic and supportive environment for the children.