Registration is now open for Hearty Roots, a new summer camp program for girls ages 9-15. Founded by Haley Bezon, a school counselor at Edgecomb Eddy School, the camp will provide girls with a “growth-producing” summer camp experience utilizing the restorative powers of nature. In its pilot summer, there will be six sessions in three different locations for two age ranges; all but two will culminate in an overnight camping adventure.
Bezon brings a wealth of knowledge and perspective regarding the value of outdoor experiences for kids. In addition to her work at Edgecomb Eddy School, she has been a K-8 teacher, worked in a back-country program for at-risk youth, and is trained in ChildLight yoga and mindfulness. Bezon’s motivation for creating Hearty Roots stems from her belief that “our kids are inherently good and when provided with the proper tools, they will find their inner shine and lead happy, healthy lives.” With the lure of screens ever-present in kids’ daily lives, the need to share the power of time spent in nature becomes that much more important.
“The magic behind Hearty Roots is its simplicity,” Bezon said. “With the relationship-based approach at our core, children experience the joy of discovery in nature, build healthy connections, and develop a keen sense of transferable mindfulness, which supports their ability to face adversity both big and small.” Camp days will be spent hiking, practicing yoga, doing camp crafts, reflecting, acquiring outdoor skills, and, most importantly, having fun.
The six sessions begin June 26-30 and run through Aug. 7-11. Two will be held at the Deck House School in Edgecomb, two at Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson, and two at Great Salt Bay Community School in Damariscotta. To learn more, get specifics on each session, and to register, contact Bezon at rootshearty@gmail.com, or go to facebook.com/heartyrootsinc.
