Why Two Weeks?

Two weeks is long enough for:

  • Social hierarchies to dissolve

  • New habits to form

  • Homesickness to transform into pride

  • Friendships to deepen beyond surface level

Children need sustained immersion to grow. A weekend isn’t enough. A day program doesn’t create the same shift.

Two weeks allows children to step fully into camp life — and return home changed by it.

What Growth Truly Looks Like

Parents often ask: What changes in two weeks?

Here’s what we consistently see:

  • A child who was hesitant speaks up.

  • A child who struggled socially finds their people.

  • A child who avoided challenge tries again.

  • A child who doubted themselves returns home more grounded.

Research in child development confirms what camp directors have observed for generations: experiences that are emotionally meaningful, novel, and supported reshape confidence and emotional regulation.

Camp provides something many children are missing:

  • Play

  • Social connection

  • Downtime

  • Healthy risk

  • Real responsibility

It is a powerful combination.

Our Core Philosophies

Everything at JRC is built around five commitments:

Unconditional Belonging

Every child is known, guided, and supported. Expectations are clear. Accountability is real. So is compassion.

Celebrating the Individual

We intentionally build a diverse staff so children can find mentors who understand them. Shy children, bold children, anxious children, leaders, observers; all have a place here.

Working Through Fear

We teach children the difference between unsafe and uncomfortable. Growth lives in discomfort. With support, they try the new thing: speak in front of a group, ride a different horse, climb higher than they thought they could.

Simplicity

Nature creates presence. Without screens, comparison softens, and children become more themselves.

Creativity

Problem-solving, music, storytelling, and imagination are woven into daily life. Creativity builds resilience.

Safety and Structure

Intentional growth requires safety.

At JRC:

  • Campers are grouped by grade and developmental readiness.

  • Staff are present in sleeping areas and supervise evening routines.

  • Clear behavior expectations are established and upheld.

  • Activities with inherent risk (riflery, waterfront, etc.) require skill checks and supervision.

  • We maintain a gender-affirming, identity-respecting environment so every child feels safe being themselves.

Freedom exists inside structure.

Children are given choice, but never without guidance.