Child 1 Age 12 (Male)
Program(s) focused in Adventure (multi), Dungeons and Dragons
(4.5) Overall experience
The PD Day camps were a valuable tool to see if he was interested enough to attend a full week summer camp. He loved it even though he had never played D&D before. As an avid reader of fantasy books, the camp allowed him to be creative, but also run around. The activity breaks at the church balanced the table top game play and the written character development sheets. There was also an opportunity to customize a character with paint and colours. He decided to go back for summer camp!
(4.5) Reason for choosing the camp
We chose this camp based on an accessible location with a topic that he might be interested in. Combining both the creative D&D elements with physical play elements are what made us choose the camp. Having opportunities to be active as well as be creative were important. There is also air conditioning. The experience was worth the investment.
(4.5) Program quality and activities
The activities were well described in the write-up and met expectations. They were clear in mentioning both active and non-active parts of the day. Taking home the paper and character to describe what he did during the day was great and allowed us to talk through his games with him. The packaging was also beautiful for his dice bag. The organization ensured the quality and effectiveness of the program through pre- and post- activity surveys. That was really nice.
(5) Social dynamics and experience
The pre-activity guidelines addressed bullying and inclusion. My child was comfortable with the leaders and had a good time with the other kids. The age group of 10-14 was appropriate. I did not hear about any bullying issues, but I know that he felt comfortable enough to ask to be registered for the summer camp. He did not make new friends over a one-day PD day camp, and that's okay.
(5) Skills and growth
He gained skills in painting and learned how to play D&D. Also his motor skills (writing) improved on the character sheet. I was happy that he was doing an in-person activity instead of only online Minecraft creative play. The physical, in-person interactions strengthened his socio-emotional skills. The activities in the gym pushed him to be able to task-switch from mental to physical tasks with kids of a variety of ages.
(5) Staff/Instructors/Counsellors
The staff is accommodating of neurodivergence and especially caters to kids who may have specific special interests, but also physical activity and quiet needs during the day. The staff communicated before and after the session. The management team was very responsive when I experienced registration issues. Overall, I was very happy
(4) Advice and tips
I would advise attending a PD day camp before committing to the full summer camp. I wish I had known that the summer camp location was different from the PD day camp location before I registered. It isn't a deal breaker, but it is a further drive away. I would advise packing a book for your kid to read if they need a break.
Both of my children were eager to attend DnD at Ravenwood. The program has not disappointed us in any way. Every week my kids are excited to get to their session. Often they are energetically discussi...
