How Parents Can Inspire Motivation in Children — Lessons from Swift Nature Camp

Helping kids stay motivated in today’s fast-paced world is a challenge many parents face. With screens, social media, and constant distractions, it’s easy for children to lose interest in tasks that build skills, confidence, and independence. At Swift Nature Camp, we’ve spent decades observing what truly sparks motivation in young people, and the patterns are clear: children thrive when they feel empowered, engaged, and supported — and when they see their efforts as meaningful.

Motivation doesn’t come from yelling, bribing, or forcing kids to check off tasks. It comes from creating an environment where children want to participate, explore, and grow. One of the most effective ways to do this is to make activities enjoyable first. For example, instead of insisting that your child practice an instrument or complete a reading assignment, let them choose what they’re curious about. Maybe they want to play their favorite song on the piano or dive into a comic series that sparks their imagination. When they experience the joy of learning first, discipline and follow-through naturally develop. At SNC, this principle guides every activity. Kids don’t just learn canoeing or archery; they learn because it’s engaging, exciting, and tied to their own sense of achievement.

Another powerful motivator is helping children connect their daily actions to a bigger picture — to who they want to be. Intrinsic motivation comes from within, from a child’s own desires and passions. For instance, a camper who loves science may take on a nature project with curiosity and energy, while another child might approach a drama activity with excitement because they envision themselves performing on stage. At home, you can encourage this by asking your child questions like, “What kind of person do you want to become?” and “What would a young scientist, athlete, or artist do in this situation?” This helps them link everyday behaviors to long-term goals in a way that feels natural and empowering.

Goal-setting is another key factor in cultivating motivation. Children are more engaged when they have clear, personally meaningful goals. Instead of abstract objectives like “be better at reading” or “practice basketball more,” encourage specific, achievable goals. For example, your child could aim to read a chapter of a favorite book each evening or practice three free throws a day. Breaking larger tasks into small, measurable steps provides both structure and a sense of accomplishment along the way. At camp, we see this every day: a camper learning archery starts by focusing on proper stance and aim, then gradually works toward hitting targets consistently, celebrating each small win on the way to mastery.

Motivation also thrives when children can see the purpose behind their efforts. Framing tasks as opportunities rather than chores makes a significant difference. A messy room isn’t just a job to complete — it can become a creative space where they organize belongings in ways that feel satisfying and enjoyable. Eating healthy isn’t just avoiding junk food; it’s fueling their bodies to play, explore, and feel strong. When kids understand the “why” behind what they’re doing, the tasks transform from obligations into meaningful achievements.

Setbacks and challenges are inevitable, but they offer invaluable lessons. Motivated children don’t see obstacles as dead ends; they see them as opportunities to learn and grow. At SNC, we encourage campers to experiment, fail safely, and try again. Whether it’s navigating a tricky rope course or struggling to tie a canoe knot, kids develop resilience when they’re supported and guided, not pressured. At home, praise their effort over the outcome. Saying, “I love how much focus you put into that project” goes further than simply praising talent, fostering persistence and a growth mindset.

Environment matters more than most parents realize. Children absorb the energy and attitudes of those around them. That’s why summer camp is so transformative. At SNC, campers are surrounded by peers and mentors who encourage curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving. This immersive environment naturally nurtures motivation. At home, you can mimic this by surrounding your child with positive influences — friends, family members, or even mentors who model perseverance, curiosity, and enthusiasm for learning.

Modeling motivation yourself is equally important. Kids notice how you tackle challenges, pursue goals, and respond to setbacks. Your actions often speak louder than words. If your child sees you trying new hobbies, tackling tasks with enthusiasm, or setting personal goals, they’ll learn to value these behaviors as well. Even small steps — finishing a home project, learning a new recipe, or training for a fitness goal — can demonstrate the rewards of persistence and effort.

Another tip is to help your child break down long projects or goals into smaller, manageable milestones. This keeps the journey from feeling overwhelming and provides opportunities to celebrate progress along the way. For instance, if your child is writing a story, encourage them to focus on completing one scene at a time rather than finishing the whole book at once. If they’re learning a new skill, starting with five minutes a day can often spark momentum that carries them further than expected. Sharing experiences with others — explaining how they solved a problem or learned something new — also reinforces motivation and helps them internalize their growth.

Ultimately, motivation isn’t about forcing kids to work harder; it’s about building an environment where they want to succeed. Fun, autonomy, goal-setting, positive role models, and encouragement all contribute to fostering natural drive and curiosity. At Swift Nature Camp, we provide these conditions daily, helping campers discover passions, develop skills, and gain confidence that lasts long after the summer ends. With intentional support at home and opportunities for exploration like those at SNC, children can learn to set goals, embrace challenges, and take the steps necessary to become the people they’re meant to be.

Every small step, every adventure, and every moment of discovery builds motivation that carries into life. How will you help your child find their spark today? We suggest you let your child new advetures at Swift Nature Camp

Happy Trails
Lonnie & Jeff
630-6548038
SNC.Camp

How Thoughtful Parenting Can Help Kids — and You — Avoid Regret

By Lonnie, Director of Swift Nature Camp for 30 Years
Below is picture of son Forrest with famed M. Brandwein

After 30 years at Swift Nature Camp, I’ve watched countless children grow, explore, and sometimes surprise themselves with what they can do. Over time, I’ve realized that parents, just like kids, often carry their own “what ifs” — the moments they wish they had said yes, encouraged a little more adventure, or let go of fear.

Intentional parenting is the key to turning those moments into memories instead of regrets. Here’s how families can create experiences that stick.

Prioritize Experiences Over Schedules

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to fill calendars with tasks and obligations. But experiences create memories, not checklists. Summer camp, family hikes, or outdoor projects give kids the chance to connect with nature, try new things, and learn resilience.

At SNC, we encourage parents to consider: Which moments will your child remember 10 years from now?

Learn more about our Summer Camp Programs

Encourage Exploration and Growth

Children grow when they step outside their comfort zones. Whether it’s climbing a tree, trying canoeing for the first time, or attempting a new craft, embracing challenges builds confidence.

At Swift Nature Camp, we create a safe environment where kids can test themselves — and succeed — in ways that make them proud.

Check out our First-Time Camper programs

Model Curiosity and Courage

Kids learn by watching. When parents show curiosity, courage, and a willingness to try new things, children absorb these values naturally. Intentional actions inspire intentional kids.

Even small acts — exploring a new trail or trying a new recipe — show your child that taking chances is rewarding.

Reflect Together

Reflection turns experiences into lessons. Ask your child:

• What was your favorite part of the day?

• What challenged you?

• What would you try differently next time?

This simple habit encourages self-awareness, gratitude, and lifelong learning.

Make Memories That Last

At Swift Nature Camp, we help families turn intentions into real, unforgettable adventures. Camp isn’t just about activities — it’s about creating moments that children and parents will remember for decades.

After 30 years, the lesson is clear: regret often comes from missed experiences, not failed attempts. Thoughtful parenting ensures those experiences happen — for your kids, and for you.

See our Dates & Rates | Learn About Camp Life

Comfort Is Holding Kids Back — Why Kids Need a Little Misogi at Camp

These days, kids are surrounded by comfort. They’ve got screens to keep them busy, parents who step in to fix problems, and food that’s ready at the push of a button. Comfort feels nice in the moment, but here’s the truth: too much of it makes kids soft. It can lead to boredom, complacency, and a fear of trying new things.

At Swift Nature Camp, we see the opposite happen when kids are allowed to stretch themselves. We lean into the idea of Misogi — taking on challenges that feel a little uncomfortable, maybe even hard, because that’s where the magic happens.

For some campers, a Misogi might be paddling a canoe in the rain, hiking a trail with a heavy pack, or spending that very first night away from home. For others, it’s simply learning how to cook over a fire or push through a little homesickness. These challenges don’t break kids — they build them.

Why It Matters

• A tough hike or soggy tent teaches a child that they can handle more than they thought.

• Without mom or dad nearby, kids discover independence and real confidence.

• Those moments of discomfort turn into stories, pride, and memories that stick.

• Most importantly, they learn that life isn’t always comfortable — and that’s okay.

From the Director

Lonnie, who’s been running Swift Nature Camp for over 30 years, puts it this way:

“Our kids need toughening. Life isn’t always comfortable, and camp is the perfect Misogi — a place where kids step into challenges, big and small, and come out stronger. At SNC, children learn resilience, independence, and how to be doers in life. Don’t let comfort trap them. Let camp set them free.”

The Takeaway for Parents

When kids come home from camp, parents often notice big changes: their children are more confident, more willing to help, and more eager to try new things. That’s the kind of growth that lasts far beyond the summer.

At Swift Nature Camp, we’re not afraid to make kids a little uncomfortable — because we know it’s the best way to help them grow.

✨ Comfort is easy. Growth takes work. But the reward is a stronger, happier, more resilient child.

Dear Camp Kupugani Families,

We’re Jeff and Lonnie, directors of Swift Nature Camp in Wisconsin—and friends of Kevin and Miss Natasha for nearly two decades. Like many of you, we were heartbroken to hear that Camp Kupugani is closing its doors. Kevin and Miss Natasha’s passion for helping children grow in identity, empathy, and confidence has been a beacon in the camp world, and their impact is truly unforgettable.

Over the years, we’ve connected deeply through our shared mission: using camp as a place where children not only have fun, but also to grow into their best, most authentic selves. In fact, we even welcomed Mico, one of Camp Kupugani’s own, as a camper at Swift Nature Camp years ago! Since then, we’ve felt like extended family, inspired by Kupugani’s beautiful legacy.

As Kevin and Miss Natasha turn the page, we’d like to warmly invite you to discover a new summer home that shares a similar heart. If you're searching for a camp where your child will be seen, celebrated, and supported, Swift Nature Camp may be just the right fit.

For over 30 years, SNC has welcomed children ages 6–15 to unplug from screens, connect with nature, and build confidence in a kind, creative, and diverse community. Like Camp Kupugani, we keep our sessions small and personal, with hands-on staff who help each camper grow emotionally and socially in a safe and inclusive environment.

We are a bit farther north, but trust us, the Northwoods are worth it. There’s something magical about swimming in a clear lake, hearing loons at night, spotting eagles overhead, or laughing with friends around a crackling campfire. To make things easy, we offer direct motor coach transportation from the Chicago area to camp.

At SNC, campers dive into a mix of classic outdoor fun and unique hands-on experiences. We offer canoeing, fishing, archery, nature hikes, science experiments, cuddling animals in our petting zoo, and even LEGO building! Our goal? Help kids grow independent, resilient, and full of wonder—all while having a blast.

As camp directors, we’re not just behind-the-scenes.  We're in it every day: leading songs, helping with crafts, playing games, and offering a listening ear. We're parents and educators ourselves, and we believe camp should be joyful, transformative, and full of heart.

We know how special Camp Kupugani was. We can never replace those memories, but we can offer a new adventure  filled with belonging, friendship, and self-discovery.

To learn more about what makes Swift Nature Camp a special place for kids to thrive, visit www.SwiftNatureCamp.com. Our Parent Information and Camper Information sections offer a full picture of daily life, activities, and the values we live by.

If you have any questions or just want to talk through whether SNC might be the right fit for your family, we’d love to connect. Call us at (630) 654-8036 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.—we’re always happy to chat about camp.

Swift Nature Camp
(630) 654-8036
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

With warmth and respect,

Jeff & Lonnie

BRUISES, NOT SCARS — A CULTURE WE’VE ALWAYS LIVED, NOW PUTTING INTO WORDS

Hi Swift Nature Camp Families,

Have you heard of The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt? It’s making the rounds right now—and for good reason. It takes a close look at why kids today are more anxious than ever and what we can do about it.

Spoiler alert: One of Haidt’s top solutions is... overnight summer camp. (We couldn’t agree more.)

But the part that really grabbed me was a quote from a camp director featured in the book:

“We want to see bruises, not scars.”

I read that and thought—yes! That’s it. That’s what we’ve always believed here at Swift Nature Camp. We just didn’t have the words for it.

We’ve Always Been a “Bruises, Not Scars” Camp

From the beginning, Swift has been a place where kids try new things, face healthy challenges, and grow stronger from them. We’ve never been about bubble-wrapping childhood. Instead, we’ve always been about giving kids the freedom to run, stumble, learn, and rise again—with plenty of encouragement (and a little dirt on their knees).

Whether it’s a scraped elbow from a hike, the nerves before a talent show, or the first big bunkmate disagreement, we’ve seen time and again how kids thrive when given safe, age-appropriate space to grow. These experiences help them build confidence, independence, and resilience — traits that screens and schedules rarely teach.

So when I read that quote in Haidt’s book, it felt like someone finally put into words what we’ve practiced all along.

Making It Official in 2025 Staff Training

This year, we’re doing something new: we’re bringing the “bruise, not scar” mindset into our staff training in a clear and intentional way.

We’ll be talking with counselors and staff about how to recognize the difference between a challenge that helps a camper grow—and a situation that might cross into harm. We’ll be defining the kind of emotional, social, and physical risk that’s developmentally beneficial, and giving staff tools to respond with empathy and wisdom.

Because let’s be honest: growth isn’t always smooth. Learning how to share a bunk, navigate group dynamics, or paddle a canoe for the first time comes with bumps—literal and metaphorical. Our job is to guide campers through those moments, not eliminate them.

We’ll be asking questions like:

• What does "healthy challenge" look like in a camp setting?

• How do we create clear boundaries to keep experiences safe?

• When do we step in, and when do we let kids work things out?

And most importantly: How do we communicate this to campers and their parents, so they know that the minor bruises of camp life are signs of real, meaningful growth?

Why It Matters More Than Ever

In a world where kids are often shielded from every discomfort but exposed to every online pressure, camp offers something radically different. Real relationships. Real responsibilities. Real fun. Real growth.

So as we head into the summer of 2025, know that your camper is stepping into a community that has always valued safety and growth — and now, we’re naming it more clearly than ever.

We’re proud to be a camp where your child can fall (safely), get back up, and feel even more confident the next time around.

Thanks for trusting us to be a part of their journey.

Here’s to a summer full of sunshine, adventure, and maybe a few well-earned bruises.

Lonnie
Camp Director
Swift Nature Camp
Where kids unplug, explore, and grow — naturally

As a parent, sending your child to overnight summer camp for the first time is a big step. You want them to build confidence, make friends, and have fun—but also feel safe, supported, and understood.

At Discovery Camp, part of Swift Nature Camp, we specialize in helping first-time campers (ages 6–12) have a positive, unforgettable first experience away from home. I’m Lonnie, the Camp Director here, and I’ve been helping kids just like yours thrive at camp for over 30 years.

🌿 Why Discovery Camp?
We’re not just another camp. We’re a sleepaway camp designed especially for first-time campers—with smaller sessions, extra personal attention, and a warm, encouraging environment that helps nervous campers (and parents!) feel ready and excited.

Here’s what makes Discovery Camp the right fit:

✅ Shorter sessions designed for first-timers
✅ Small group sizes with caring, trained staff
✅ Traditional outdoor fun—no screens, just nature
✅ Safe, ACA-accredited, with on-site medical care
✅ Located just a few hours from Illinois & the Chicago area

Most importantly, we’re all about connection—with our campers, and with parents. I personally speak with every new family to ensure your child’s experience starts on the right foot.

Take the First Step Today
If you’re wondering whether your child is ready for overnight camp, or want to learn what to expect as a first-time camp parent, start here:

 Visit our First-Time Campers Page

Have questions? I’d love to chat with you one-on-one.

Warm regards,
Lonnie
Camp Director 
Swift Nature Camp
630-654-8036
www.SNC.Camp

P.S. Our sessions fill fast—especially for first-time campers. If you think this might be the summer your child is ready, let’s talk!

How to Get Your Child Off Social Media This Summer — The Easy Way

By Jeff Lorenz, Director of Swift Nature Camp

Discovering the Best Summer Camps in Wisconsin: What Parents Should Know
By Lonnie, Camp Director at Swift Nature Camp

Choosing the right summer camp for your child is both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. As a camp director in Wisconsin for three decades, I’ve spoken with hundreds of parents asking the same big question: What are the best summer camps in Wisconsin, and how do I know which is right for my child?

Whether you're searching for overnight camps in Wisconsin, nature-based summer camps, or traditional sleepaway camps for kids, there are a few universal qualities that the best camps share. Here’s a helpful guide based on what I’ve seen work best for children — including what we aim to provide every summer at Swift Nature Camp. For my husband and I we appreciate when parents call or text their questions to us. Yes, we have much information on our website but this shows the parents that go that extra step to ensure their Childs experience will be the best.

Discovering the Best Summer Camps in Wisconsin: What Parents Should Know
By Lonnie, Camp Director at Swift Nature Camp

Choosing the right summer camp for your child is both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. As a camp director in Wisconsin for three decades, I’ve spoken with hundreds of parents asking the same big question: What are the best summer camps in Wisconsin, and how do I know which is right for my child?

Whether you're searching for overnight camps in Wisconsin, nature-based summer camps, or traditional sleepaway camps for kids, there are a few universal qualities that the best camps share. Here’s a helpful guide based on what I’ve seen work best for children — including what we aim to provide every summer at Swift Nature Camp. For my husband and I we appreciate when parents call or text their questions to us. Yes, we have much information on our website but this shows the parents that go that extra step to ensure their Childs experience will be the best.

Why Illinois Families Adore Swift Nature Camp – The Ultimate Sleepaway Experience for Chicagoland Kids
By Lonnie, Camp Director at Swift Nature Camp

As a dedicated Illinois parent and director of Swift Nature Camp, I truly understand how tough it can be to find the *perfect* summer camp ( I sent my child to another summer camp). Finding the camp that meets your child's needs while striking the right balance between fun, safety, and genuine personal growth. If you’re diving into the world of overnight summer camps in Illinois or on the lookout for sleepaway camps near Chicago for Summer 2025, I’m excited to share a hidden treasure that’s been delighting Illinois families for thirty years: Swift Nature Camp.

What Makes Swift Nature Camp So Unique? Swift Nature Camp isn’t just any camp. We’re a small, nurturing, overnight camp that truly believes in the magic of nature, friendships, and exploration. As the Director for 30 years our mission for being one of the top choices for Illinois kids summer camps for kids—especially for those first-time campers.
Our mission is to help kids:
- Build confidence and independence
- Forge new friendships in a screen-free, unplugged setting
- Discover nature, science, and animal care
- Develop responsibility, resilience, and leadership skills
- Simply be themselves and have fun while being kind to others

We cap our camper numbers to maintain a low staff-to-camper ratio, so no child gets lost in the crowd. Every counselor is carefully selected and trained for 2.5 weeks to create a kind, encouraging, and silly (yes, silly!) atmosphere where kids feel safe to be themselves.

The SNC Experience

Whether your child loves animals, nature, science, or just being active and outdoors, we’ve got something for them. Our campers can:

• Care for animals in our camp zoo

• Explore science through hands-on experiments

• Go on canoe trips, swim in the lake, and roast marshmallows

• Try archery, arts & crafts, Lego and silly camp games & songs
  

• With Over 55 land and water activities campers are never bored or miss their screens

• Discovery Camp is the perfect introduction to overnight camping for younger children, especially first-time campers aged 6–11. Designed with extra care and attention, Discovery Camp offers a shorter, more nurturing experience filled with hands-on learning, nature exploration, and age-appropriate activities. Kids build confidence as they make friends, try new things, and enjoy the outdoors in a safe and supportive environment. With smaller group sizes and highly trained counselors, campers receive personalized attention that helps ease them into the camp routine. It's a magical way to spark a lifelong love of nature, independence, and adventure! Plus it comes with a money back guarantee.

While we may not be physically be an Illinois Summer Camp, our hearts—Like us many of our campers—are rooted right here. Each summer, we provide a motor-coach from Chicago to summer camp, making it super convenient for families all over the USA and the world to send their kids off on a safe, thrilling adventure in the beautiful Wisconsin Northwoods.

Are you thinking about Summer Camps for 2025?
It’s time to get started! The most sought-after sleep-away camps near Chicago and beyond tend to fill up quickly, especially those like ours that offer a very limited number of spots. If you’re on the lookout for a camp that values a smaller community, personal connections, and genuine growth, now is the perfect moment to start your search.

We’d love for you to visit our website www.snc.camp, join our Meet & Greet April 27th, or drop us an email (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) we’re always here to help! And remember, our Chicago motor-coach makes getting to camp a breeze, so you can focus on having fun without the hassle.

Please Reach Out Anytime

Lonnie & Jeff

630-654-8036

www.snc.camp