Why This Matters #
Every session at Adventure Camps is a chance to create magic. Whether it’s football, drama, crafts, or drone racing, the way you deliver the session is as important as the activity itself. Children remember the energy, the fun, and how they felt more than the details of the game or project.
That means your job is bigger than just running an activity. You are creating an experience. This guide shows you exactly how.
The 6 Steps to a Great Session #
1. Prepare Before Children Arrive #
- Know your activity plan — what, where, how long.
- Check and set up equipment in advance. Safety comes first.
- Walk the space: remove hazards, check boundaries.
- Have a back-up plan (always know a quick game if things change).
2. Set the Scene #
- Greet children with a smile, enthusiasm, and confidence.
- Gather the group together and explain the session in simple, exciting terms.
- Use your voice and body language like a performer — big energy, clear instructions.
- Make the activity sound fun: “Today we’re not just playing dodgeball — we’re entering the ultimate dodgeball arena!”
3. Demo & Check Understanding #
- Show how the game/activity works, don’t just explain.
- Use a couple of children to demonstrate.
- Keep demos short, visual, and engaging.
- Ask quick check questions: “What do we do when we’re tagged?”
4. Run the Session #
- Start with high energy and keep momentum going.
- Position yourself so you can see everyone.
- Encourage, praise, and keep the atmosphere fun.
- Adapt on the fly: if children are restless, switch it up; if it’s too easy, add a challenge.
5. Keep It Safe #
- Supervise actively: eyes on, scanning constantly.
- Stop immediately if something looks unsafe.
- Do regular headcounts, especially in open spaces or pool sessions.
- Make sure children are hydrated, especially in hot weather.
6. Close with Impact #
- End while energy is high — don’t let activities fizzle out.
- Celebrate effort and achievements: “Big round of applause for everyone!”
- Reflect quickly: “What was the best part of today’s session?”
- Pack away safely and hand over smoothly to the next activity.
Staff Roles in a Session #
- Activity Leader → Plans and delivers the activity, ensures safety and engagement.
- Assistant/Group Leader → Supports supervision, encourages children, manages behaviour, helps transitions.
- Zone Leader → Oversees the overall flow, ensures the activity fits the timetable, and supports leaders.
Example Scenarios #
Scenario 1: Children lose focus
Instead of repeating rules endlessly, restart the game with a fun twist: “Freeze! This round, you can only hop!” Energy comes back instantly.
Scenario 2: Activity is too difficult
Simplify the rules: reduce the playing area, lower the skill level, and rebuild confidence before adding complexity again.
Scenario 3: A child feels left out
Give them a role — referee, scorekeeper, or helper. They stay engaged while building confidence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid #
- Talking too long at the start — children lose focus quickly.
- Ignoring behaviour issues until they escalate.
- Only praising the “best” children instead of the effort of all.
- Ending too late and rushing transitions.
The Adventure Camps Magic Touch #
- Always add imagination: make ordinary activities feel extraordinary.
- Use names constantly — nothing builds connection faster.
- Create moments of surprise (bonus round, secret challenge, staff vs children).
- Remember: your energy sets the tone. If you’re buzzing, they’ll buzz too.
Quick Tip #
Think of every session as a mini performance. Plan it, deliver it with energy, adapt as needed, and always end on a high.
