Transitioning to overnight camp can be a big step for kids. ShaiVenture was born as a bridge from a day camp experience at Camp Shai to their first experience at Ranch Camp. The integration of day camp and overnight camp experiences provides a balanced approach, giving children the time they need to acclimate to the new environment while also making it easier for parents to ease their children into this next step. The goal is to provide campers with a seamless introduction to the overnight camp experience by fostering strong social connections and offering an emotionally supportive environment. For the first week of their two-week experience. ShaiVenture campers from the greater Denver area attend Camp Shai to connect with one another, play games, sing songs, and get into the overnight camp mindset. On the second week of their session, they head out to Ranch Camp for an unforgettable week full of challenge course, hiking, horseback riding, and sleeping under the stars.
Camp magic in action! A staff member having fun with campers, turning every moment into an unforgettable adventure.
By starting the journey together at Camp Shai, campers are able to form lasting bonds with their peers and go home each night to process their experience with their parents. The days at Camp Shai are peppered with team building activities and conversations about what “sleepover camp will be like.” The friendships campers start at Shai provide a sense of comfort and confidence when they move up to Ranch Camp away from their families and familiar routines the next week.
One other important component of the program is the presence of familiar staff for both weeks of the program. Katelyn Skeen, Director of Ranch Camp, emphasized the significance of having a Ranch Camp staff member visit Camp Shai during the week to meet with the campers and introduce them to what they can expect in the coming days. This familiarity creates a sense of security and trust, making the shift to overnight camp smoother for the children.
“We have been really pleased with the impact ShaiVenture has offered first-time campers at Ranch Camp,” remarked Katelyn. “While campers may still experience the typical struggles of missing home and experience some trepidation of what camp will be like, knowing a lot of new friends and bunkmates going into the experience is a gamechanger.” The program offers not only a chance to experience the magic of summer camp, but also a sense of belonging, emotional growth, and lasting memories.
Give your child the best of both worlds—secure your spot in ShaiVenture!
