It’s pretty clear by now that no one’s summer has probably gone how they planned it. At Lollypop Farm, our halls are usually filled with kids laughing and learning about the animals brought to the shelter. As news of the COVID-19 pandemic progressed, we knew that the safety of our campers had to be our first priority, and with heavy hearts we realized that it meant not holding our summer camp at the shelter. But we didn’t let it keep us down! Our Humane Education Department created a virtual experience unlike any other for young animal lovers at home. The kids are LOVING it and it’s only been one week! Here are some of the highlights from Summer Camp @ Home so far.
1. Lollypop Farm is reaching kids near and far.
Summer camp isn’t just about fun in the sun! Our goal every year is to help campers learn about having compassion and empathy for all living things. And this year that message is being sent out far and wide. We have campers registered from as far away as California, Texas, Washington State, and even Puerto Rico!
2. Interactive classrooms are fun with new learning opportunities every day.
Every day starts with an interactive Bitmoji classroom! Greeted by our Humane Education Manager, Kim Ferris-Church and other animal experts, campers are provided with everything they need for a fun day at camp. Every classroom is filled with fun and educational videos, interactive trivia games, activities, invites to virtual meet & greets, and more!
3. Campers can enjoy learning first-hand from Lollypop Farm experts.
Lollypop Farm has lots of staff members with individual expertise in animal care. Campers are able to still interact with these experts and learn more about caring for animals and different career paths in animal welfare. In Future Vet Camp @ Home campers get to meet Dr. McNamara and learn about life as a vet. They even have the opportunity to watch a vet perform a live surgery!
4. These campers aren’t sitting in front of a screen all day.
Campers aren’t stuck to the computer all day. Lollypop Farm also provides STEM learning activities to provide variety and hands-on learning experiences. From constructing a model heart to building clay pets to learning about animal body language, campers will have fun discovering on their own and sharing what they’ve learned. Campers can get even more activities by adding an optional camp kit when they register.
5. Campers get the chance to interact with each other while practicing safe social distancing.
Using ClassDojo campers will have the opportunity to meet and interact with other campers. They’ll be able to have great discussions and learn from peers with similar interests. It’s a great way for kids to stay engaged and social while staying safe.
6. Self-paced videos and activities mean campers can learn in their own time.
Not everyone learns at the same speed. Self-paced videos and activities means that campers can take their time learning. With less pressure to get the activity done on time, campers are free to absorb and process the information while having fun along the way.
7. There’s always something new to learn about the pets we love.
Lollypop Farm offers a variety of Summer Camp @ Home options so there is something for everyone. Whether they’re fascinated by farmyard friends, animal behavior, or a future career as a veterinarian, campers can take a deep dive into the topics that peak their interest.
8. Great partnerships with other Humane Education teams.
Lollypop Farm has teamed up with other animal welfare and humane education groups to bring the best of the best together for the ultimate virtual camp experience. Special thanks to partners like RedRover Readers, Farm Sanctuary, PEP! The Pet Education Project, Animal Farm Foundation, Who Chains You Publishing, and the Association of Professional Humane Educators for helping us make Summer Camp @ Home a huge success!
Interested in learning more about Summer Camp @ Home? There is still time to register your camper for a week of fun! Head to www.lollypop.org/summercamp for more details.
