Some Facts about Beaver’s Exceptional CIT Program
Some details you probably already know about the CIT Program at Beaver:
- CITs are younger than counselors, between the ages of 13 and 15 (and entering grades 8, 9 or 10).
- CITs are the energetic young folks you see on campus proudly wearing the orange Beaver t-shirts.
- CITs are mature and love spending time with kids!
- CITs assist counselors in supporting the camper experience in a wide variety of ways.
- Most CITs are aspiring counselors, and many assume the role of junior counselor at Beaver as soon after their training is completed.
A few details you might not know about the CIT Program at Beaver:
- There are two CIT sessions each summer, both of which span four weeks.
- There are usually approximately 30 CITs in the program each session.
- CIT sessions usually begin with a day or more of orientation and bonding activities (a favorite and successful activity is the Trust Fall!)
- CITs have the opportunity to request the division or camp program with which they work, which changes every week or so to broaden their experience base.
- CITs receive ongoing feedback throughout their program, in the form of evaluations by their directors and commendations and recommendations by counselors.
- CITs set personal objectives and self-assess periodically.
- CITs usually depart from campus on excursions twice per session, often an overnight. Just this week their camping expedition to Black Rock State Park in Connecticut was followed by a day at Lake Compounce amusement Park.
- CITs must apply to be admitted to the program and spots are limited (so if you’re interested, check in early!)
- CITs learn and practice behavior management, team-building, communication, and activity leadership, among a host of other valuable and practical skills.
- Over the course of a session, CITs support and encourage one another and develop strong and long-lasting friendships.
Check out more information about the Counselor-in-Training program at Beaver, and take a look at a photo album featuring this summer’s CITs.