Achievers is designed for children who are ready for deeper engagement, meaningful challenges, and collaborative project work. If your child enjoys building, making, and seeing projects through from start to finish—even when they're challenging—Achievers will be a great fit. Our counselors coach children through the problem-solving process while encouraging persistence and reflection.

While Explorers focuses on curiosity-driven questions and trying new strategies, Achievers emphasizes sustained engagement with meaningful projects. Campers are expected to plan their work, test ideas, revise when needed, and reflect on outcomes. There's more collaborative accountability, deeper problem-solving, and greater independence in managing work and materials.

Rather than completing a series of separate activities, Achievers often work on extended projects that require planning, experimentation, revision, and reflection. For example, during "Architecture Week," campers might design and build scale models, test structural integrity, revise their designs based on what they learn, and present their final work to peers—all while learning about architectural principles and problem-solving strategies.

We teach children to take on specific roles, share responsibility, and work toward common goals. Counselors facilitate group dynamics, help campers navigate disagreements constructively, and encourage them to consider multiple perspectives. Our goal is for children to develop the skills to collaborate effectively and contribute meaningfully to team efforts.

 Frustration is a natural part of learning at this level, and our counselors are trained to support children through it. We help campers recognize that difficulty is not failure—it's an opportunity to adjust their approach, ask for help, or try something new. Learning to manage frustration and persist through challenges is a core part of the Achievers experience.

Dress for mess and movement! Campers should wear comfortable clothes (your DEAN t-shirt is perfect!) that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes, and sun-safe clothing. Projects at this level can be particularly hands-on and messy. Send your DEAN water bottle with your child's name and sunscreen daily.

While weekly themes provide structure, Achievers have significant choice within projects. They can decide what to build, how to approach problems, and which roles to take on in group work. This balance of structure and choice helps children develop agency while still benefiting from thoughtful curriculum design.

We're happy to discuss your child's specific developmental stage, work habits, and readiness for sustained project work. Contact us and we'll help you determine the best fit based on your child's needs and interests.