Six children smiling and leaning on the edge of a swimming pool, with a lifeguard sitting in a chair in the background, all enjoying a sunny day at the pool.

counselor in training
junior Camp

For campers who have completed grades 6 - 8

The Counselor-in-Training Junior (CIT Jr.) Program is designed specifically for middle school students who are ready to begin developing leadership skills while still enjoying a traditional camp experience. This program blends the excitement of camp activities with age-appropriate training, mentorship, and opportunities to assist with select camp responsibilities.

CIT Jr. participants grow in confidence, teamwork, and communication through guided leadership experiences, hands-on learning, and mentorship from camp staff and older CITs. The program allows students to begin discovering their leadership potential in a fun, supportive environment while continuing to enjoy field trips, special events, and the friendships that make camp so memorable.

Program Overview

Day In the Life

Camp Ridgedale’s Summer hours of operation are 8:00am - 3:00pm for Standard Camp, and 7:30am - 5:30pm for Extended Care.

7:30a - 8:00a

8:00a - 8:45a

8:45a - 9:30a

9:30a - 10:00a

10:00a - 11:00a

11:00a - 11:45a

11:45a - 12:30p

12:00p - 12:30p

12:30p - 1:30p

1:30p - 2:00p

2:00p - 2:30p

2:30p - 3:00p

3:00p - 3:30p

3:30p - 5:30p

Extended Care Morning Drop Off

Drop Off & Morning Free Time

Morning Connection Point & Training

Morning Assembly: Music, Games & Teaching

Rotation 1

Rotation 2 (With CIT Buddies)

CIT Junior Swim

Mid Day Connection Point

Lunch *Campers bring packed lunch from home*

Rotation 3

Rotation 4

Popsicles & End of Day Connection Point

Dismissal / Pickup

Extended Care Afternoon Activities / Pickup

The above schedule is an example and is subject to change.
Each week there will be a field trip / special event that adjusts the schedule.

CIT Jr. participants are introduced to leadership through age-appropriate training that blends skill development with the fun and energy of traditional camp. Students take part in daily leadership sessions where they begin learning communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving, and positive role modeling. CIT Jrs receive mentorship from camp staff and older CIT participants while gaining hands-on experience assisting with activities, helping with simple leadership tasks, and occasionally supporting younger campers. This structured but encouraging environment allows students to explore leadership while still fully enjoying camp traditions like field trips, swim time, and themed events.

Mentorship and reflection help CIT Jrs grow in confidence and responsibility as they begin discovering their leadership potential. Participants have opportunities to track their growth, celebrate accomplishments, and learn how to serve others in meaningful ways. CIT Jr. campers also earn documented volunteer service hours that can be used for school or community requirements, along with recognition of their leadership development. The program serves as a fun and supportive first step toward future leadership opportunities within camp and beyond.

Grow

Practice

Play

Build

Learn

Prepare

Grow • Practice • Play • Build • Learn • Prepare •

Four children playing on grass near a colorful parachute in a park.
Two children playing catch outside on a grassy field; one is swinging a bat, and the other stands in the background.
Three kids sitting outside on a sunny day, with colorful banners hanging on a wooden fence in the background. They are smiling and posing for the photo, wearing white T-shirts and sunglasses.
A woman is placing a paper plate over a girl's face in front of an audience, with the girl wearing a brown t-shirt and curly hair. The woman holds the plate with both hands and the girl is standing still. The scene appears to be indoors with several children and adults watching.
Two young women smiling outdoors on a sunny day with green trees and a playground in the background.

Tuition

  • $135 / Week
    $1,310 / Full Summer

    Our Standard CIT Junior Camp covers a Monday-Friday week of 8a-3p programming for campers who have completed grades 6 - 8 by May 2026

  • $150 / Week
    $1,480 / Full Summer

    Our Standard CIT Junior Camp covers a Monday-Friday week of 7:30a-5:30p programming for campers who have completed grades 6 - 8 by May 2026