Recently I had a chance to lead a group of campers in 9-Square. If you haven't played, you're missing out. For the purposes of this story you really just need to know that tall people have an advantage because it uses volleyball-esque mechanics.
In our game, played with 6th graders and their adult chaperones, one adult towered above the group. He was dominant. It was a sight to behold watching all of us (myself included) work to get him out and largely fail miserably. The main trouble is that he didn't even try very hard. We were jumping around, exerting considerable effort, while I think he could have easily had a cup of coffee in one hand or have been reading a book while playing.
It was a fascinating look at group dynamics. Presented with a clear problem (beating this adult), the group bonded together without direction and without hesitation. It was innate and natural. In a decidedly individual activity, a team formed.
This may seem small, but it's at the heart of social-emotional learning. Having a group bond and read each other in this way is a skill that kids are missing out on. Social-emotional learning is at the forefront of what we do in camp and retreat ministry, which is especially important because it's being edged out in schools and daily life (for a variety of reasons and to the detriment of youth, children, and even adults).
Making those connections at camp and forging the relationships is what we're all about. I'm thankful to know that there is a whole community of people that support this mission and vision. If you haven't yet, would you tell someone about NaCoMe? Tell them about summer camp for kids, tell them about bringing a group on a retreat, or maybe tell them about the importance of donating to our ministry. And next time you're around NaCoMe, I've got a round of 9-Square ready... especially if you're tall.
Ryan "Flash" Moore, Director