Many of our camp families are enjoying the last weekend of summer before the start of school. That normally involves a last couple of days of sleeping in, a short trip and some packing for school.

I remember my own experiences of that well – laying out the backpack, prepping the pens and pencils, the feel of a new notebook clean from my doodles and ineffectual notes, the nerves and the questions.

Who would be different after the summer? Would there be new kids my classroom? I’d heard about the teacher, but what would they really be like? Should I act any different than I had in the past?

Now, let’s be honest – I was not thinking too much about that last question. In lower and middle school, most of us are just who we are… that collection of habits and actions and thoughts that we’ve built up over time, mostly unconsciously. Once we get into late middle school and high school, we are a bit more aware and can make (some) intentional choices on our behaviors and words.

So, what are you going bring to school in terms of who you are? Are you going to be the kid you were at camp – thoughtful, fun, engaged… the one spending time with friends without a phone in your hand or in front of your face?

Or are you going to fall into the same pattern that everyone else does? Most kids don’t know any different. They just keep doing what they did this summer – screen time, listen to an adult, see other kids a little and more screen time.

You, however, had a different experience.

You got to be around counselors, program heads and DHs who showed you how to interact face to face, how to take risks and choose your attitude. You got to see how much fun and refreshing life can be without the demands of social media and apps. Whether you wanted it to or not, the summer experience made you different… in a very good way!

So… what would I suggest you pack for school?

A little courage – go make a new friend or two. Reach out to someone you can see having a hard time connecting. A little gratitude – your teachers deserve it… and so do your parents. (Plus, you had this past summer which is a LOT to be thankful for.) Finally, remember that you have the power to choose how you react… all the time. Make sure to tuck a few great memories and stories from camp, too. Those are always fun to share.

Good luck in school this year. Remember who you are. Let your GAC make the little spot of the world around you better.