We follow the American Red Cross progression of swim skills as the basis for our swim program. Approximately half of each 50-minute swim period is devoted to instruction under the direction of our Water Safety Instructors. The remainder of the period is enjoyed as "free swim." Our unique waterfront facility has the appearance of a natural pond but is actually fully lined, chlorinated and filtered. The shore slopes gently into the water, creating a safe and welcoming invitation for the beginning swimmer. A buoy line separates the shallow end from the deep end. As with everything we do at The Nature Place, our approach to our swim program is gentle and encouraging. The camp's Earth Art program offers the perfect opportunity to combine the beauty and wonder of our natural world with the creativity and imagination of children. Nature is the setting and inspiration for many of our art projects. Comfortable open-air studios are set up in various areas throughout the camp's 200 acres, perhaps near one of our streams or in a shady hemlock grove. These peaceful outdoor settings foster friendship and cooperation, as well as creativity. Campers are provided with the finest quality materials along with the artful guidance of an outstanding art staff. A mix of instructional and experiential activities helps campers explore various art mediums including sculpture, painting, hand-crafts and more. Read more about our Earth Art program in our newsletter archive. Adventure and fun should be a part of every child's summer. Each hike offers a bit of adventure, some challenges, plenty of rest stops, a new awareness of our environment and a chance to go places and see things most people do not experience. Our full-day hiking trips take us to places like mountain tops, Indian rock shelters, old iron mines and "hidden" ponds. All hikes are geared to the age and ability of the campers in terms of interest, mileage and terrain. Campers of all ages also learn outdoor living skills such as "lost proofing", tent set-up and campfire safety. Older campers (ages 8 and up) have the opportunity to participate in overnight camping trips where they learn minimal-trace camping skills, map reading, compass use, and canoeing. The camping program is progressive with trips becoming more challenging as campers grow older. The adventures are age-appropriate and are designed so campers complete each trip with a sense of accomplishment and a set of new outdoor skills. Read more about our hiking and camping program in our newsletter archive.