Peer group ages and general needs: Kindergarten - 2nd graders: This age group tends to need more “parental” type care (i.e. they need help making their beds, following directions for self care, help with reading and writing letters). They are generally energetic and playful, are able to engage their imagination, and can get worn out easily from camp activity. These campers leave the evening activity at 8:30 and have lights out at 9:00 PM. 3rd - 5th graders: These upper elementary aged children are becoming more independent, but still need a “parental” type guidance at times. They are beginning to develop and “try on” social skills and personalities. Bullying and exclusion can begin to occur at this age. They are active and love to be busy and have fun, can be rowdy at times, and are still imaginative and creative. 6th - 7th graders: Middle schoolers are transitioning to teenagers and seem to go back and forth across the line between childhood and teenager-dom. They can be emotional and attention seeking at times, and understanding and eager to seek mentorship from their counselors and others, at other times. The physical and emotional maturity level of campers in this age group varies widely. 8th - 9th graders: Young high schoolers like to relate to their counselors as friends, even though their counselors are much older and have had much more life experience than they have. They tend to want to be “cool” but also enjoy being able to be kids while at camp. Social dynamics are important to them. Counselors for this age group need to relate to their campers as capable young adults who can be held to high standards.