Hailey Waldo
Reporter@greenepublishing.com
Madison County youth recently experienced a unique camp focused on self-care, movement and confidence building activities to help develop understanding of the importance of both physical and mental wellness.
A key highlight of the camp came from Chandra Smith, of Smith Therapy Services, an occupational therapist who instructed yoga sessions and spoke with campers about the importance of rest, recovery and daily movement. Many students were surprised to learn that growing bodies, such as theirs, need around 10 hours of sleep each night, a message Smith stressed the importance of, as it is essential for health and emotional regulation.
Another creative experience was led by Melissa Cherry, Chief Creator of Cherry Hill Farms Outfitters LLC. Kids designed custom hats by selecting patches and decorative chains such as pearls, gold, turquoise or simple classic styles. Participants watched as their designs were finished with heat-pressed patches, turning each hat into a personalized keepsake.
Pampering and wellness experiences were provided by Daylight Salon, where students enjoyed facials, hair braiding, nail care and relaxing massages. The spa experience helped introduce basic self-care journey in a fun and age-appropriate way.
Throughout the week, campers also engaged in a wide range of creative and sensory activities, including tie-dying socks and towels, making clay handprint bowls, creating homemade sugar scrubs and lip gloss, designing butterfly keychains, bead sun catchers, bandana bags, mosaic frames, sensory bottles and dandelion paintings. Students also enjoyed cooking-style activities such as making ice cream in a bag and decorating their own slices of cake.
The Madison 4-H Spa Camp gave students a one-of-a-kind experience and a deeper understanding of caring for the mind and body while making fun memories with friends.
