Sensory Gym Program Specialist - Special Needs Camp Counselor - Paid Summer Internship

Looking for a paid summer internship that empowers young people through sensory and physical activities?

If you have a passion for athletics and want to help children grow while working in a beautiful outdoor setting, this is the opportunity for you!

About Us:

Camp Starfish is dedicated to providing a transformative summer experience for children with emotional, learning, and behavioral challenges. As a Sensory Gym Program Specialist, or “Activate Specialist,” you’ll play a key role in helping campers develop physical skills, teamwork, and self-confidence while creating a positive and inclusive environment for all.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and facilitate sensory activities like stretching, yoga, gymnastics, obstacle courses, etc.,  ensuring all campers participate and learn the fundamentals of teamwork, sportsmanship, and fitness.
• Live alongside youth campers in a cabin, providing 24-hour supervision and helping them adjust to camp life and group living.
• Create a physically and emotionally safe environment that encourages patience, physical activity, and cooperation.
• Work to nurture each camper’s personal development, self-esteem, and individual goals through sport and recreation.
• Fully immerse yourself in camp life, learning valuable skills like group facilitation, behavior management, and effective communication.
• Participate in other outdoor camp activities (e.g., hiking, high ropes, boating, swimming, campfires), ensuring the campers experience a well-rounded camp experience.
• Collaborate with fellow counselors to implement safe, inclusive, and fun active programs tailored to the needs of each camper.

Qualifications:

• Ideal candidates include college students majoring in OT, PT, sports management, physical education, psychology, sociology, social work, or a related field.
• Strong passion for sports and physical activity, with the ability to inspire and motivate children to try new activities and move their bodies in ways they may not be used to.
• Willingness to work effectively with children with a variety of emotional, learning, and behavioral needs.
• Mental resilience and the ability to handle challenging situations with empathy and composure.
• Must be able to work the full summer season, including staff training dates.
• Must pass all required background and reference checks to work with vulnerable youth populations.
• At least one year of college, work, or life experience beyond high school.

Skills:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with campers and staff.
• Ability to design and facilitate athletic activities that promote physical health, teamwork, and inclusivity.
• Physical ability to engage in outdoor activities, including sports, under the summer heat and environmental conditions (humidity, wind, lake water, etc.).
• Comfort and capability to implement behavior management techniques and support campers in navigating emotional or crisis situations, fostering the development of their social and coping skills.
• Strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and creating an environment where every camper feels supported.

Development and Fellowship Opportunities:

• Course credit in physical education, sports management, psychology, social work, or related fields.
• 140+ hours of hands-on training for working with diverse children and supporting their development through physical activities.
• Paid internship with eligibility for a 15-month Fellowship to further your professional development.
• Weekly seminars on core values, self-regulation, restorative practices, and other professional growth topics.

Internship Includes:

• A beautiful, immersive nature experience, where you will lead and participate in athletic activities.
• Room and board included, as well as laundry services.
• Paid time off and travel stipend for staff traveling over 250 miles.
• Opportunities to forge lifelong friendships in a supportive, team-oriented community.

How to Apply:

Ready to inspire kids through staying active this summer? Apply now to join us for a transformative experience where you can help campers grow physically, emotionally, and socially.

Camp Starfish is an equal-opportunity employer. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Join us in making this summer unforgettable for campers who need it the most!