Words are so powerful. Words have the power to build people up and bring them down. They can uplift and enlighten, or depress and destroy. We have complete control over the words we use, so we really must choose them carefully. The first step is awareness. Think before you speak. Focus on communicating positives: strengths, praise, encouragement. Handle negatives carefully. Stopping to consider your intention before you speak is a powerful tool. Why Speak with Good Purpose? One of our 8 Keys of Excellence principles to live by is Speak with Good Purpose. Let’s consider why we should strive to speak with good purpose. Communication is the bridge between people—it’s the glue that holds all relationships together. It’s what forms the links between teachers and students, parents and children, employer and employee, between friends, between siblings, etc. All our relationships thrive or fade depending on the quality of the communication between us and the other person. Speaking with good purpose can be a challenge—it takes courage, effort, and practice. But when you master this skill the quality of your relationships will change and you’ll find the satisfaction of deep, meaningful connections with others that you may not have had before. Words are powerful. A few cutting words let loose without thinking can wound someone for a lifetime. Maybe years ago your best friend said you had a “lame smile” . . . or your teacher discouraged your progress in math with “you’re no good at numbers”—and you still remember those words. Hurtful comments can stay with us a long time. Whoever came up with that rhyme about “sticks and stones” was wrong. Words can hurt.   Whatever you say—whether it’s negative or positive—has an impact. Look for those positive words, words that build up, words that heal. There are times when a few kind words make all the difference. Have you ever had someone tell you You got this! or You can do it! just when you needed to hear it the most? Words really do matter.  

Catch yourself — why was I going to say that? How can you make sure you’re speaking with good purpose? How do you make it happen? How do you direct your speech to build strong bonds and create safe environments?

Begin by building awareness, by actually thinking about your words . . . think before you speak. Ask yourself a few quick questions . . . Am I going to say something useful right now? Will my words be encouraging or damaging? Will my words build up or break down the person I’m speaking to? Will my words improve our relationship or might they damage it? Positive communication is a habit. It’s a matter of training yourself to monitor your thoughts before they become speech. With practice you’ll learn to focus on giving words to positive thoughts, recognizing people’s strengths in words as well as thoughts and offering praise and encouragement.  Don’t stop expressing negative thoughts, just be careful with them We don’t have to avoid expressing negative thoughts, feelings, and experiences, but it’s best to recognize them for what they are and decide whether or not we need to say them. Just stop and think about it for a few seconds. If it’s simply a random unpleasant thought—you don’t like a person’s whiny tone or wish someone wasn’t so pushy—acknowledge the thought and let it go. Choose not to give it the power of spoken words. But if it’s something that needs resolution, you may need to express it. Handle these times carefully. Think about the intention of your words. Are they meant to support the person and build a stronger relationship? Are they focused on finding a solution? Honesty in a relationship requires you to state your true thoughts and feelings, even when they’re not what the other person wants to hear. Honest speech is about revealing the true you, yet it can and should be done without the masks of sarcasm, condescension, or disdain. You simply make sure that you’re speaking kindly as well as honestly.  The power of speaking with good purpose Speaking with good purpose allows us to harness the awesome power of our words. When we speak positively, honestly, and directly, with the goal of keeping relationships strong, words cease to be a random force and begin to show their positive power in our relationships and in our lives.

I think before I speak and choose my words carefully.

The post Words are Powerful appeared first on SuperCamp.

Meet Kalani
Kalani is an undergrad student at New York University. The acceptance rate for NYU’s class of 2023 was an astonishing sixteen percent, so we say well done Kalani! Since his admission into NYU, Kalani has maintained an exceptional GPA and completed his first semester with a 4.0, placing him at the top of his class. As part of his NYU undergrad program, Kalani has been able to enjoy the experience of studying abroad at the University of York in England. Currently, he’s continuing his studies in York and cherishing his time in the UK, but is also excited to continue learning and growing stateside on NYU’s campus next fall.

Considering what’s important to Kalani, we can clearly see that he values his education and personal growth. Along with that Kalani deeply cherishes his friendships. He draws inspiration and motivation from those with whom he chooses to spend his time.

Prior to Attending SuperCamp
Kalani was curious to discover what kind of experience he would have at SuperCamp. Thinking about his thoughts before attending Junior Forum, Kalani remembered that “as a middle schooler, the appeal was really just being away from home with other people that I can talk to.” Like many of us attending summer camp for the first time, Kalani’s initial interest was gaining some independence away from home and creating new friendships.

From his first session in 2012 and the three summers that followed, Kalani has gained and maintained a community built from SuperCamp friendships and shared experiences.

The Shift
When asked to share more about the impactful moments from his time at camp, Kalani made a special note of the connections he made. He went on to say that participating in SuperCamp “introduced me to other like-minded people who are really focused on improving themselves and on their educational growth. I still keep in touch with a lot of them because we’ve made this journey together.” Having the support of others is truly priceless, especially when their support not only allows you to feel validated, but also encourages you to be your best self.

Along with gaining lifelong friendships and a community of support, Kalani was also impacted by his new-found confidence and still remembers the positive culture surrounding this. When introduced to Kalani, you wouldn’t guess that he ever struggled with goal setting or self-doubt. While thinking about his time at SuperCamp, Kalani remembered initially having trouble with feeling confident about his choices and goals, but that quickly changed because he was “surrounded by people who have that confidence for you. Even if it was wavering at first, you’re surrounded by all of this positivity, and you start to believe it yourself.” The people surrounding us often make the biggest impact.

Kalani always had personal goals in mind, but struggled with believing in his ability to achieve those goals. While learning in an environment enriched with positivity and team collaboration, Kalani felt empowered to work toward his goals . . . and he had big ones, some of which he’s already achieved!

The Impact
The friendships made at SuperCamp enable us to bring the fun, positivity, and momentum gained from camp into our lives at home, promoting positivity that spreads into all areas of our lives. Kalani believes that keeping in touch with friends from camp has added value to his life . . . “Quite frankly, this tight-knit community that SuperCamp gave me as a camper has really helped me today.”  His relationships from SuperCamp have created a much-needed support system and accountability check, empowering him to accomplish the goals he has set for himself.

One friend in particular is Faith. Kalani and Faith spent three summer sessions together at SuperCamp. They were brought together simply because they were both attending the same session and soon found out that they shared many beliefs and values. Both value friendship, collaboration, and striving toward academic excellence. Even when summers came and went, the two kept in touch virtually, sharing in each other’s successes and helping one another through difficult choices concerning school and relationships. Kalani is able to make responsible choices on his own, but having the support of a close friend, who has shared life-changing experiences with you, makes those choices that much easier.

Kalani’s Story and the Key of Ownership
Kalani’s story in relation to the 8 Keys of Excellence exemplifies the Key of Ownership. Ownership relates to being responsible for our thoughts, feelings, words, and actions, and owning the choices we make and the results that follow. Kalani consistently works toward being his best self and achieving his goals. In doing that, he expresses confidence and owns every choice along the way. He’s acquired high levels of confidence in his own abilities and in the people and community with whom he surrounds himself.

Kalani’s Future is Bright
Kalani’s short-term goals are very much driven by his academics. Ultimately, he would really “like to graduate college with a good GPA.”  As we already know, Kalani is definitely off to a successful start. For long-term goals, Kalani is envisioning his future “as an environmental policy analyst.” He hopes to devote his work to finding solutions and making a positive change in the world of environmental policy, thus making the world a better place for all. We are confident he’ll succeed!

The post SuperCamp Student Spotlight – Kalani’s Story appeared first on SuperCamp.

The line, which sits constantly on the horizon of our character, represents responsibility. Living above the line is a powerful life skill, a foundation for communication and personal interaction that highlights and puts into practice the concept of ownership, taking responsibility for our actions.

Living Above the Line is a Choice
Every one of us has a choice. We can choose to live either above the line or below the line. When we choose to live below the line, our lives become driven by circumstances. We are victims! We forgo ownership and send the message to the world that we are not in control of our lives. People who live below the line—choosing responses such as laying blame, justifying, denying, and quitting—are all showing the world that they struggle with personal responsibility.

Blame: Laying blame could quite possibly be the most common and damaging way to live below the line. To a student being called out by their parents for a low mark on a test, this could sound like “The teacher didn’t cover everything that was on the test! It’s not my fault!” While the student may think they’ve given their parents a viable excuse, it doesn’t change the test outcome (and the real reason for it) or promote responsibility, and it certainly doesn’t contribute to positive communication with their parents.

Justify: Another example of living below the line is justifying. Justification happens when we create reasons why we didn’t perform as we should have, reasons that avoid taking responsibility. “Everyone else was talking too!” This below-the-line response tries to provide reasons for failure, believing that the reason or excuse will make everything okay.

Deny: Denying is another below-the-line choice. “I wasn’t talking” doesn’t make the problem go away. This obviously ineffective response can cause others a lot of frustration, and make us seem unreliable or even dishonest.

Quit: Finally, the most disheartening form of below-the-line response is quitting. When we believe so strongly that we’ll fail that we don’t even bother to try, we sabotage our chances for success even before we’ve begun. Although this kind of negative thinking may give us an escape route for our possible failure, we deceive and diminish ourselves when we respond this way.

Living Above the Line is All About Respond-ability
When we live above the line, however, we are choosing responsibility and ownership. We don’t simply let things happen to us and justify, blame, or deny them. We make things happen for us. We have greater control because we stop blaming things outside ourselves for our current situation.

Living above the line means being accountable for our words and actions. It means looking at our options and finding ways to become more honest and sincere—with ourselves and with others. This above-the-line thinking leads to greater freedom as we take responsibility for all our actions—we take responsibility for our life. The choice is always ours.

The post Above the Line appeared first on SuperCamp.

Prior to Attending SuperCamp
Initially, Nia’s interest in SuperCamp was sparked because her older sister had attended years earlier. Although she was excited for the opportunity, she wasn’t expecting the experience to be as impactful as it was.

Nia had always valued personal growth, lifelong learning, kindness, and authenticity. Her expectation was that she would experience learning moments that aligned with those values. Being the learner that she is, she did experience that—and so much more.

The Shift
Midway through camp, Nia sat on the carpeted floor surrounded by people whom she’d just met a few days earlier. The air was cool. The lights were soft and dim. Her eyes were closed and she was listening intently. The exercise was to think about negative things in our life that we’re holding on to. As we focus on our thoughts, our fists tighten. Tightening our grasp, we hold it for as long we can. Then eventually we release and let go of whatever is holding us back.

Nia referred to this as the standout moment of her SuperCamp experience. Even after she was able to release, she admits that it was really hard. She kept her fists clenched. Nia explained that she had been holding on to these negative thoughts and emotions for so long, years in fact. Allowing herself to let go wasn’t a simple task. Moment after moment passed and Nia kept holding on for what she said felt like an eternity. Then she was finally able to let go.

Nia reflected, “When I finally let go, I just burst into tears. They were just flowing and I am not the type of person to cry in public . . . I cried in front of all of those kids and I didn’t even care. It was such a moment for me.” Many of us, like Nia, find that taking a moment like this for ourselves is rare and not always easy. However, when we choose to take the opportunity to experience these moments, they are impactful and unforgettable.

The Impact
Remembering her experience, Nia shared that “The biggest thing about SuperCamp was that it was a space where you could just let yourself dive into the little crevices of who you are and just keep going . . . I unpeeled layers that I probably wouldn’t have [unpeeled] for years. I was able to release certain experiences from my life because nothing was stopping my flow. I wasn’t interrupted by stress from school. I wasn’t interrupted by family matters. I was able to go through that process and complete it.”

Taking a glimpse into Nia’s experience, we instantly admired how present and inspired she is. She recognized that there was something holding her back from being her best self. Even though the choice wasn’t easy and pushed her out of her comfort zone, she chose to let go. Letting go of the things she’d been holding onto freed up more space and opportunity for positivity, which is what she truly values. Nia is someone who lives in the moment, and in those moments she is always looking for the positive outcome.

The 8 Keys of Excellence
Nia’s story in relation to the 8 Keys of Excellence truly embodies the Key of “This Is It!” This Key is all about making the most of every moment, focusing our attention on the present, and keeping a positive attitude.

Where is she now?
Since summer 2019, Nia has continued to make the most of every moment. She is taking four AP courses, acting as an officer of her school’s Black Student Union, and is working toward creating a student-led learning community, where students can connect online to provide tutoring and other academic resources. Nia was also invited to speak at an event for entrepreneurs within her community. During her speaking engagement, she shared valuable insight on what motivates her and pushes her to keep going under any circumstance.

Future Goals
Nia’s long-term goals are inspired by one meaningful focus—to create “a positive impact.” Nia will be participating in SuperCamp’s Mastermind with Mentors in October to gain new learning experiences, connect with others, and to continue receiving support from her SuperCamp community. Her intention and drive to make a positive impact will no doubt be at the forefront of her experience.

The post Nia’s Story appeared first on SuperCamp.

Choose a Winning Attitude!

When it comes to learning—and in fact, to your success in life—what’s your most valuable asset? Is it your intelligence? Your genes? How hard you work? These all have a role in your ability to learn and succeed, yet there is something else that can have a much greater effect than all of them.

When it comes to excelling in learning and life, your most valuable asset is a positive attitude. If you have high expectations for yourself, high self-esteem, and the belief that you will succeed, you will have high achievement. It’s an old saying, and it’s still true: What you think about, comes about . . . and as Henry Ford put it, “Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t—you’re right.”

Your thoughts are powerful! Think like a winner, and you will win! When you expect the best, you’re inviting the best to become reality. Expect the worst, and you’re inviting disaster.

Although you aren’t always in control of the circumstances, you’re totally and absolutely and always in control of how you react to them. If you have a tendency to walk into situations (such as a classroom, whether in person or virtual) and think This is going to be boring, try making a simple change. Instead of thinking I’m bored, say to yourself I choose to be engaged! You do choose your reactions, and the way you think and talk to yourself defines your attitude—it can make you high or make you low, make you productive or make you procrastinate, make you win or make you lose! Choose high, choose productive, choose win!

When you choose to have a positive attitude no matter what your endeavor, possibilities become probabilities, and limitations become opportunities. Positive emotions smooth the way toward success.

“The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future
by merely changing his attitude.”
                                                                   —Oprah Winfrey

Here are some ideas to help you cultivate that life-changing winning attitude! 

Think Like a Winner!

Throughout life, there are obstacles to overcome. How you handle those obstacles can often make the difference between success and failure. If you approach situations with a negative attitude, chances are you will live up to those low expectations and have a difficult time succeeding. But by developing positive self-talk, you can find the courage to handle almost anything—and win!

The next time you’re faced with a difficult situation, try some of the following positive messages or create your own that fit the situation:

• I know I can make this work.
• My mind is uniquely capable.
• I am committed to making this happen.
• Everything is supporting me in reaching my goal.
• The more I practice, the better I get.
• I get better every day.
• I am really proud of myself.

Act Like a Winner!

Your physiology—the way you hold your body—usually reflects how you feel and think. What’s interesting here is that you can actually control your frame of mind by controlling your physiology. For example, when you’re feeling good about yourself, you probably stand and sit tall, you hold your chin up and move with energy. Practice this physiology whenever you’re feeling down, and your positive attitude should kick in. Try the following and see how they influence the way you feel:

• Walk tall. Put a bounce in your step and swing your arms.
• Sit up straight, shoulders back.
• Use large gestures when you speak.
• Speak loud and clear.
• Smile!

Cultivating a winning attitude takes practice, but eventually it becomes second nature. You’ll be amazed at the things you can accomplish when you think and act like a winner. It’s a choice: change you attitude and you change your future! So choose that winning attitude—and win!

(Adapted from Quantum Learning by Bobbi DePorter)

The post Attitude is everything! appeared first on SuperCamp.

What is a mastermind?
Masterminds are small groups of peers who meet regularly to help each other succeed. Members share their successes, their stories, and their goals—what they want to achieve, and barriers that get in their way—and other members share ideas from their own experience.

Masterminds first began in 1925 when the concept was conceived by Napoleon Hill, author of The Law of Success and Think and Grow Rich. Hill believed that when two people got together, a third mind—the master mind—was created.

Bobbi DePorter, President of SuperCamp, has participated in several mastermind groups, one for more than three years. “I found the meetings kept me focused on my progress and overall growth. The support I experienced made me feel not so alone at times when I was stuck, needed fresh ideas, and was trying to break through my challenges. That mastermind group helped keep me moving forward. It was inspiring and motivating to be part of a safe group who knew me well, a group with whom I could share my challenges and my successes, and receive meaningful feedback!”

“Deliberately seek the company of people who influence you
to think and act on building the life you desire.”
—Napoleon Hill

Why for students?
Now more than ever students can use extra support navigating this most unusual school year where personal guidance is limited. Especially in the virtual setting, students are generally isolated and working alone.

Reports show that the number of students who are in need of mental, social, and emotional support is up 60% and the ability of schools to respond is down 25%.

College students are regularly coached by their academic advisors. We know that regular meetings can make a big difference in how supported students feel. It reduces anxiety and stress and refocuses students on what needs to get done to reach their goals.

SuperCamp has put students in small groups since its beginning forty years ago. “Team time” is one of the most valued parts of SuperCamp. Students get to know each other at a deep level. They feel comfortable to be who they are, to share their strengths as well as their insecurities, to express their opinions. They feel safe to share themselves authentically, to share experiences that might be helpful to another, and through this they learn about themselves at a deeper level. Team Time helps students to feel safe, supported, and valued for who they are.

SuperCamp Mastermind with Mentors
SuperCamp’s experience with students over the last nearly 40 years and their knowledge of what students need to propel them toward being their best self, has inspired them to create a new form of “Team Time”—a mastermind group! Now this team support is here for students! The SuperCamp Mastermind with Mentors program is for students ages 14 to 20 and will continue throughout the school year.

Mastermind with Mentors is led by our SuperCamp facilitators—facilitators who many say are some of the best in the world! They’re known for their ability to connect, inspire, and motivate students, and effectively lead impactful discussions and meaningful learning.

During 90-minute weekly meetings, a team of eight to twelve students discuss their highest goals, what is most important and brings the most meaning to their lives. They share what may be holding them back and what they need to break through barriers, and receive suggestions from other team members and from their SuperCamp facilitator/mentor. All participants get support in staying accountable and on track for success.

At each meeting, all team members will have an opportunity to speak and receive feedback. Part of the weekly process is where each student shares:

1. A personal success this week
2. Progress on last week’s challenge
3. This week’s goal  (on same challenge or new focus)

The same group of students stays together for at least a month, and ideally for longer—a half semester, a full semester, or for the full school year. This builds trust and a sense of belonging where students feel safe to be their authentic selves, which builds their confidence, courage, and motivation—all empowering them to excel.

PLUS . . . One-on-One Mentoring!

The same qualified and trained facilitators who lead the mastermind teams also connect one-on-one with each participant for a half-hour private mentoring session each week. They discuss goals and challenges, as well as suggested strategies and implementation, providing students with individual guidance and support. This connection builds rapport between the student and the facilitator, and with the focus on helping them succeed, students gain not only knowledge, but confidence.

Claude Mitchell, who has been with SuperCamp since 2013, is one of our lead facilitators, and here are his thoughts on the value of mentoring: “I have been blessed to have had mentors in every stage of my life, and whether they were by force or by choice, they all made an impact on my life. The knowledge and wisdom that was shared with me during those times, whether through words or actions, are priceless. The time and effort they sacrificed to guide and support me will never be forgotten. The lessons I learned from those mentors have stuck with me my entire life and will continue to be part of who I am for the rest of my days. My hope is that I can lead and guide others through mentoring, passing on the wisdom and knowledge I’ve acquired throughout my life. What is the purpose of gaining knowledge and wisdom if you’re just going to keep it to yourself?”

Our objective in offering the Mastermind with Mentors program is to provide ongoing support for students to inspire and empower them to excel during the coming school year. Click here to LEARN MORE

The post Mastermind Groups Help Students Excel appeared first on SuperCamp.

Captivate – Connect – Cultivate

How schools open for the new school year is being debated across the nation and much is at stake . . . the wellbeing of our students as well as their parents and their teachers. No matter what path is eventually taken, there is potential cost to our physical and emotional health as well as financial impact. There is also an opportunity for significant long-term benefits for our students.

With dramatic shifts in our lives comes opportunity for change and growth—evolution into a better version of our schools and ourselves, that would not have evolved otherwise.  As Albert Einstein said,

“In the midst of every crisis, lies great opportunity.”

Regarding our schools and education –

• What if . . . it could be a different experience—one that includes real learning and even joy?
• What if . . . it could be something students look forward to?
• What if . . . students felt empowered to be in control of their learning and motivated to excel?

We believe the opportunity in front of us is Quantum Live Virtual Learning* experiences where we Captivate – Connect – Cultivate creating positive learning for students for this new school year and beyond.

We are in an unprecedented time. School choices are limited—distance learning, in-classroom learning, or a hybrid approach—and all come with concerns. Most schools and districts are fluctuating between approaches, sometimes week by week, causing uncertainty and for some, anxiety.

Distance learning is the new norm for most schools and needs an upgrade! It’s a challenge for students to stay motivated and to put in the extra effort and focus that’s required. It’s a challenge for parents to keep encouraging their kids while also working from home, as well as the financial challenge for those who need to return to work. And it’s a challenge for teachers, as most have not been trained in how to teach effectively online. As a result of all these and many other challenges that we’re all aware of from their spring learning experience, far too many kids are bored and some don’t even show up!

Let’s take a look at some of the concerns and health issues that come with distance learning and in-classroom learning:

Here’s what’s at stake . . .

Mental Health—Mental health influences our thoughts and actions, and affects how well our mind processes and understands information and experiences. It also impacts our ability to reason through decisions and maintain focus.

“Distance learning has been in place for several months, starting last spring.School closures are intended to keep students physically safe, however, it’s ushered in anxiety, depression and other serious mental and emotional health conditions. Increasing numbers of students say they feel overwhelmed.”  —edsource.org

Social-Emotional Health—Social-emotional health relates to our ability to understand and manage our emotions, reactions and relationships. It’s all about how we interact with the world and the people in our lives, and affects our self-confidence, trust, and empathy.

“School is the only place where we get constant interaction with others  . . . As the lockdown extended, a majority of us felt the devastating effects of social distancing, which for many of us was more like social isolation.”       —Gael Aitor, student, age 17   (Comment in San Diego Union Tribune)

Learning Loss—Summer slide is a well-known concept.  One study of more than half a million students reported that students lost between 25 and 30 percent of their school-year learning over the summer—that’s two to three months of learning! And now we’re faced with COVID learning loss. The Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) projections suggest a major academic impact for most students from COVID closures. For many, if not most, that distance learning experience was nowhere near the level of learning they were used to from in-classroom learning.

Many students have trouble keeping motivated during distance learning, especially those who simply receive assignments to complete online with far too few check-ins with their teacher. This is not a positive learning experience. Missing is the daily interaction with their teacher along with the camaraderie and interaction with other students—the joy and laughter that are such an important part of learning!

 Physical Health—From constant news reports we’re all aware at some level of the number of COVID-19 cases and its impact. Along with this, recent reports of schools opening without taking the necessary precautions have been particularly disturbing.

No matter what protocols (including everything from masks to improved ventilation) may be placed on schools reopening, threats to the physical wellbeing of all involved—students, teachers and other school personnel, and families—are real. The key for opening is to avoid opening too early, and when opening, to implement strict precautions.

Emotional Health—Anxiety about return to classrooms: In addition to the physical health aspect, there is an emotional impact as well with the anxiety for parents about sending their children back to their classrooms. There is also anxiety for school administrators, teachers, and other school personnel about a possible outbreak.

Uncertainty can leave us feeling stressed and powerless: The options that school districts are considering and offering—whether distance learning or in-classroom learning or some combination of the two—seem to change on a daily basis. Deciding among those options and planning how to accommodate them becomes impossible, and that uncertainty and the fear it engenders results in a great deal of anxiety.

What’s the opportunity this crisis offers?

Instead of complaining about our school options of distance learning, in-classroom learning, and various combinations of the two . . . 

We believe the answer is highly engaging live virtual learning that

• ✓ Captivates students’ attention and builds their curiosity and interest, that
• ✓ Connects students in authentic conversations with peers and educators, connects them to the content, and
• ✓ Cultivates and deepens their learning.

This option is highly interactive and fun—something that students look forward to, versus something they are required to do. And what a difference that makes in their motivation!

The need for a positive culture has never been greater, and is central to our Quantum Learning System that focuses first on culture, then on cognition. It starts with a place that is safe, consistent, and reliable, and provides a sense of belonging and connection. It’s a place where students feel comfortable, where they find joy in learning, a place where they actually want to participate—a place where students learn, grow, and achieve.

Live virtual learning is greatly enhanced when it starts with students getting to know each other and sharing what’s important to them, including what they do for fun. Authentic connections are made and relationships are formed leading to a safe place with a sense of I belong here, I can be myself here, I’m accepted here.

There are no easy answers, and we’re here to support students, their teachers, and their parents—in whatever their coming school year brings—with captivating live virtual student programs and teacher training.

In fact, here’s some feedback from participants in recent SuperCamp virtual programs:

• I experienced some of the same close connections with other participants and learned really useful skills like I did when attending SuperCamp on-site last year. Really motivating!
• It was great finding ways to help our uncomfortable zones become more comfortable.
• I really loved it, and I was inspired to set my own learning goals. I feel more in control of my learning now.

#        #        #        #        #

Bobbi DePorter
President
Quantum Learning Network
SuperCamp Programs
Quantum Learning Education
www.qluniverse.com

SuperCamp FUTURE DAY is a captivating live virtual workshop like no other. It creates a shift in a students’ mindset, in their willingness to take responsibility for their learning, to be accountable for their own results, and to be committed to an effective system to stay organized. In a single transformative workshop, students experience a change in their attitude, they learn how to thrive in their new school year and beyond, and they’re motivated to excel. An interactive experience for students ages 13 to 18.   QLUniverse.com/for-students

For information on all of SuperCamp’s programs go to:  www.SuperCamp.com
SuperCamp Future Day
SuperCamp Mastermind with Mentors
SuperCamp Weekly Courses
SuperCamp Summer 2021 (Onsite)

Bobbi DePorter, co-founder and president of Quantum Learning Network (QLN), is an early pioneer in the field of accelerated learning. Through her study and application, Quantum Learning teaching and learning methods were developed.  Her SuperCamp learning and life skills youth program, now in its 40^th year, has over 85,000 students and is offered in fourteen countries. Her Quantum Learning Education division produces schoolwide programs for teachers, administrators, students and parents, in thousands of schools and districts in the U.S., as well as international programs. Through these programs and the 8 Keys of Excellence movement, her work has impacted millions of young people around the world. Bobbi is the author of more than a dozen books on teaching and learning.

Bobbi can be reached at: bdeporter@QLN.com

The post With Crisis Comes Opportunity— Quantum Live Virtual Learning appeared first on SuperCamp.

Brainwaves, from top: beta, gamma, alpha, theta, delta

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself any direction you choose.
You’re on your own. And you know what you know.
And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…” 
—Dr. Seuss

Did you know that our brains exhibit five different states of brainwave activity? Did you know that one of those states is ideal for learning, and that it’s possible to access that state through visualization?

Dr. Georgi Lozanov, a Bulgarian scientist, was a pioneer in accelerated learning and coached Bobbi DePorter, SuperCamp’s founder, in the early days of SuperCamp’s creation. In the mid-1970s, Dr. Lozanov conducted experiments on the best brainwave state for learning. He discovered that students in alpha state—a condition of relaxed concentration—learn at a much faster rate. They also remember information for longer periods of time. The other states of brainwave activity are beta (alert and active), theta (nearly asleep or dreaming), delta (deep, dreamless sleep), and gamma (higher mental activity, high energy, extreme focus).

Q-Up to Access Alpha State
The best part of Lozanov’s discovery is that it’s not only possible, but easy to access alpha state once the process is learned. This can be achieved in a number of ways, one of which we teach at SuperCamp. Q‑Up is a simple four-step technique to access alpha state. Here are the steps.

 

Step 1:	PULL UP Imagine a string attached to the top of your head pulling you up.
Step 2:	PICTURE what you want. It could be to complete an excellent essay in the next hour. It could be to read the next chapter in 30 minutes with understanding. It could be to feel joy while practicing your speech.
Step 3:	BREATHE deeply in through your nose and out through your mouth, and as you breathe out . . .
Step 4:	RELEASE your jaw and shoulders keeping the picture of what you want in mind.

Then begin. If you feel your mind wondering, stop and Q-Up again.

With practice, this process only takes a moment to quickly access the alert and calm state of alpha brainwaves, the optimum state for learning. Dr. Lozanov was well known for creating a remarkably effective method of teaching based on how the brain actually learns, and alpha state was an important part of that process.

 
Theta Scan to Learn While You Sleep!

There’s another brainwave state that facilitates learning. Brain researchers have learned that we process our thoughts and learnings during the night and that our brains focus on the thoughts we had closest to falling asleep. So, instead of TV, video games, etc., if students take a quick scan (just ten minutes or so) of their schoolwork just before falling asleep, it can make a big difference in what they remember and in their understanding of what they studied. At SuperCamp we call this a theta scan because it happens during theta brainwave activity while we’re asleep! What a bonus to let our brain keep on learning while we sleep!

 
So remember the importance of those alpha and theta brainwaves—they really can help you learn, even while you sleep!

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]]> https://www.supercamp.com/know-your-brainwaves-they-can-help-you-learn/feed/ 0 https://www.supercamp.com/theres-a-difference-in-virtual-learning/ https://www.supercamp.com/theres-a-difference-in-virtual-learning/#respond Fri, 03 Jul 2020 20:25:04 +0000 https://www.supercamp.com/?p=70533 SuperCamp’s learning skills are applicable to every subject and every level of learning, and to virtual learning as well as classroom learning. This has not been an easy school year for students. With no warning whatsoever—and therefore no preparation—virtual learning became the new normal for students and their parents. No one was ready for virtual […]

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SuperCamp’s learning skills are applicable to every subject and every level of learning, and to virtual learning as well as classroom learning.

This has not been an easy school year for students. With no warning whatsoever—and therefore no preparation—virtual learning became the new normal for students and their parents. No one was ready for virtual learning, not teachers, not students, and not their parents.

We recently came across an article in the Wall Street Journal declaring “The Results are in for Remote Learning: It Didn’t Work”! Then another article in the New York Times was brought to our attention by a parent: “What Students are Saying About Remote Learning.” It’s a sad and challenging situation.

While we have produced physical camps and trainings for decades, this spring we looked at how to create the same engagement, connection, and joy in learning online. It’s what students are missing and crave. With this is mind, we designed virtual programs based on our signature Quantum Learning System and the results are in—they work!

Have a look at some student reactions . . .

“What Students are Saying About Remote Learning” (extract from New York Times, 4/9/2020)

Peer-to-peer interaction is a really pivotal part of education . . . with Zoom we can see one another and our teacher, but everyone is always muted. I’ve noticed that staying on task gets harder as the week goes on. Away from school and classmates and teachers, it’s hard for me to focus. The lack of social interaction is a huge factor in me not enjoying online schooling. I have a significant lack of motivation and I miss the thought-provoking discussions I used to have with my classmates. Every day my motivation to do my work decreases and recently all my assignments have been turned in late causing my grades to drop. Overall, online school makes time management extremely difficult and I feel like I’m not even learning in some of my classes.

What Students are saying about SuperCamp Virtual Programs (feedback from QL Mentors virtual program participants)

I experienced some of the same close connections with other participants and learned really useful skills like I did when attending SuperCamp last year. Really motivating! I’m going into my first year of college next year and after this program I feel like I have what I need to be successful. The academic and life skills we learned in the QL Mentors program were really useful . . . made me feel more confident about my learning progress. It was great finding ways to help our uncomfortable zones become more comfortable. I really loved it, and I was inspired to set my own learning goals. I feel more in control of my learning now. My daughter loved the webinar yesterday . . . already learned how to focus to get more done . . . made me promise to sign her up for SuperCampU! She told us, It was so fun I didn’t want it to end.

“The Results are in for Remote Learning: It didn’t Work” (extract from Wall Street Journal, 6/5/2020) With the school year now winding down, the grade from students, teachers, parents and administrators is already in: It was a failure. Preliminary research suggests students nationwide will return to school in the fall with roughly 70% of learning gains in reading relative to a typical school year, and less than 50% in math. Many districts plan to offer remote summer school to help combat “Covid slide.” There are concerns that the same remote learning that wasn’t effective in the spring won’t have changed much for summer.

In addition to students connecting with content, peers, and facilitators at deep levels and looking forward to online sessions, we know that there is high need for students to gain effective learning-to-learn skills for both online and in-person learning. With learning loss a real challenge, keeping students engaged and motivated is paramount at this crucial time.

The virtual programs we developed have been hugely successful—they provided students with new skills and more positive perspectives to build their confidence and help them adapt to virtual learning. Participants have not only gained confidence, increased their motivation, and learned how to focus their attention to stay on task (even with the distractions and reduced discipline of home learning), they made real peer-to-peer connections with other participants.

And now as students and their parents consider what form school may take in the fall—and there are many options being considered out there—many are wondering how students are going to cope. If it’s more virtual, there’s a feeling of dread for most. If it’s back to school “as usual,” there are concerns about learning loss (Covid-19 as well as the usual summer learning loss). And if it’s a blend of virtual and in-person learning, there’s a combination of these anxieties.

To address these real concerns of parents, students, and educators—as well as requests from students who have done our two-week programs—we are now offering a four-week virtual program. SuperCampU (July 6 to 31 and July 20 to August 14) is an engaging and interactive program for students ages 9 to 18 (in groups by age: 9–13 and 14–18). Each week Monday to Friday for one hour students learn SuperCamp’s core content that has resulted in improved grades, confidence, and motivation over the last 39 years! The program consists of four one-week courses: Self-driven Motivation and Leadership Now, Quantum Reading, Quantum Writing, and Quantum Strategies. During all our virtual programs, participants interact with peers in live energetic learning experiences guided by a SuperCamp trained facilitator—and have fun while they learn!

In addition, we have recently partnered with GeniusU and can now offer participation in their Young Entrepreneur Academy at no additional cost. This partnership gives students the unique opportunity of including powerful entrepreneurial experiences with SuperCamp’s proven curriculum. From being a YouTuber to building an app or having an online store, participants in this program can learn how to launch their own fully functioning digital business.

Students really need an extra boost now to reduce the possible effects of learning loss from their virtual school challenges and prepare them for their return to school in the fall no matter what form that may take. SuperCampU has been created to meet those needs. Participants will experience joyful learning and real connections with other participants and with our super SuperCamp facilitators!

LEARN MORE here.

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]]> https://www.supercamp.com/theres-a-difference-in-virtual-learning/feed/ 0 https://www.supercamp.com/how-to-build-rapport-and-support-your-children-in-these-challenging-times/ https://www.supercamp.com/how-to-build-rapport-and-support-your-children-in-these-challenging-times/#comments Wed, 13 May 2020 00:33:27 +0000 https://www.supercamp.com/?p=70461 By Bobbi DePorter These are challenging times for all of us, and perhaps especially for families. Most parents are working from home, and students are being schooled at home—it’s a lot of togetherness!! Our children are also struggling. They’re away from their friends, they’re trying to do their schoolwork and learn at home. They’re feeling […]

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These are challenging times for all of us, and perhaps especially for families. Most parents are working from home, and students are being schooled at home—it’s a lot of togetherness!!

Our children are also struggling. They’re away from their friends, they’re trying to do their schoolwork and learn at home. They’re feeling isolated and unmotivated. And no one—not parents or their children—has a “social life” now. Everyone’s new “normal” day-to-day life is far removed from what they’re used to. Even in the best of family relationships, this can become trying for all.

Though you may have good communication with your children, these are challenging times and being more mindful of building rapport goes a long way. Rapport is defined as a close and harmonious relationship in which the people or groups concerned understand each other’s feelings or ideas and communicate well.

Rapport creates emotional engagement and gives us on-ramps into our children’s lives. It creates a way for us to enter their world, know their concerns, and share their successes. Rapport helps us understand our children’s feelings and ideas as well as their fears and challenges, leading to better communication and solid relationships.

Here are a few suggestions for building and maintaining rapport with your children.

• Tell me more. When asking teens about their day, many simply answer We want to know what they like, how they think, and how they feel about what’s happening in their lives. When you ask a question and you get a common teen one- or two-word reply, continue with tell me more. Then stay quiet and give them a chance to answer.
• What’s the worst that could happen? What’s the best? When you see signs of FEAR (what we refer to as false expectations appearing real) in your child, acknowledge it and show that you understand. Then ask What’s the worst that could happen? and What’s the best?Usually this will lead to more clarity about the perceived fear, and what they may be sensing from you about current challenges. Being honest and open goes a long way, and it’s reassuring for them to know you share their concerns.
• WIIFM: If your child is struggling with low motivation, as many are in this new virtual learning environment, help them find something of interest to them personally in what they’re learning. We call it WIIFM (pronounced wiffem), which stands for what’s in it for me? Help them find the WIIFM, no matter how farfetched it may seem, and with it they may find a new more positive attitude.
• Acknowledge every effort. To help children struggling with low self-esteem, acknowledge every effort. When your child makes an effort and completes a task, instead of simply saying great job, acknowledge the effort they put in and tell them what you noticed. At SuperCamp we include numerous “mini-success moments” and take a moment to acknowledge the effort that resulted in their success.
• How do you CHOOSE to feel? If you believe your child has been hurt by something someone said or did to them, try asking them How do you feel?Tell them that although we can’t control what happens to us, we can control how we react to it. Then ask How do you CHOOSE to feel?
• Failure leads to success. When your child feels like a failure because they failed at something, tell them about Failure Leads to Success (one of our 8 Keys of Excellence).Help them to change the way they think about failure. Instead of thinking that they are a failure, encourage them to think about failure as a valuable learning experience. When they learn from their mistakes rather than sending themselves negative messages, they are on the path to success. They can then ask themselves three questions:

        What happened?

        What did I learn?

        How will I apply what I learned?

• Speak with good purpose. Another one of our 8 Keys of Excellence is Speak with Good Purpose: Think before you speak and speak honestly and kindly. Talk to your child about this key and how it applies to what they say to themselves as well as what they say to others. Encourage them to pay attention to that “voice in their head,” especially when it tells them negative things about themselves, and assure them that positive thoughts about who they are can correct that voice.
• A few more tips. And finally, here are a few more things you can do on a continuing basis to maintain a positive relationship with your child.
• Imagine what they might say to themselves, about themselves.
• Speak the truth to them clearly, in a way that ensures they can hear it and understand it.
• Have fun with them.
• Treat them as equals.
• Trust them.
• Listen—really listen—to what your children say to you, and note their non-verbal communication as well.
• And last, but not least—allow and encourage your children to do all of the above with you.

Positive support, a nurturing environment, and good communication are essential for strong relationships with your children. Parents who make an effort to build rapport with their children will not only strengthen their relationships, but also build their children’s feelings of acceptance and trust. This in turn builds their self-confidence, a vital ingredient in their overall happiness.

Built on mutual trust and emotional comfort, rapport develops over time and must be nurtured. It is, however, well worth every minute that you—and your children—put into it. When children feel understood and supported, they feel safe and happy, at home and in themselves.

*      *      *      *      *

Bobbi DePorter
President, Quantum Learning Network

SuperCamp / QL Education
SuperCamp.com / QuantumLearning.com

Find out more about SuperCamp’s new virtual programs:
www.QLUniverse.com

QLUniverse.com/SuperCampU

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Quantum Learning is embraced by tens of thousands of schools, with significant positive results. QL methods orchestrate joyful, engaging, and meaningful learning, and are the foundation of our programs. SuperCamp, the leading learning and life skills summer residential leadership program for nearly 40 years, has more than 85,000 graduates.

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