Learning More than the Ropes at Ramapo

Our sixth graders had a wonderful experience last week at Camp Ramapo where, over two days, they met a series of outdoor challenges in a beautiful setting.

Low ropes, high ropes, survival challenges, and hikes through the woods. You name it, the boys were there to encourage each other to reach new heights.

Team work and trust were the keys to success.

During a day in the woods, each group successfully problem solved to create a shelter and boil water. On the high ropes course they depended upon a belay system connected to their friends and teachers who supported, encouraged, and protected them during their climb. In the tire challenge, they collaborated with each other to reach the top of a vertical play pen. Then, when evening arrived, they hiked and enjoyed S'Mores and stories by the campfire.

Two days spent in the woods taught so many lessons in tangible ways: that each boy has different and important strengths to contribute to a given task; that facing a fear and overcoming it builds confidence; that teamwork, trust, and encouragement are essential for success.

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