Director: Boy Scouts day camp in Sikeston provides engaging experience for attendees

SIKESTON — Boy Scouts of America Day Camp “Where the Wild Scouts Are” is just a month away and will provide engaging experiences for children in the community.

The Greater St. Louis Area Council is offering a scout camp at Sikeston Elks Lodge from noon to 4 p.m. July 27 and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 28-29.

Amber Scudder, the camp’s director, has been active with BSA Camp for five years and is in her third year as camp director.

Scudder said the three days of camp are all the same and consist of the same activities. There will be many stations set up, and the children will be divided into age groups. BB guns, archery, crafts, food, STEM and games will be among the stations.

Scudder said since this year’s theme is “Where the Wild Scouts Are,” they will create a safari costume. 

“One day they’ll make the binoculars; one day they’ll make the hat, and one day they’ll make the vest,” Scudder explained. 

Scudder noted for the STEM station, campers will make pipe cleaner snakes and little rafts. 

Scudder added since July is typically so hot, the games will mostly consist of water every day.

“We try to keep them in a little bit of water to keep them cooled off,” Scudder said. “They may do dodge ball with water sponges, and another day they may do a water balloon toss game to see who can throw the farthest without busting the water balloon.”

Scudder explained the benefits of camp and expressed her excitement for the program and its importance.

“BSA camp gives the kids in the Sikeston and surrounding area the opportunity to do activities such as shoot BB guns and learn about STEM in a fun and exciting way that they may not have the chance to do without scouting or the day camp,” Scudder said.

Scudder mentioned many individuals do not have access to a gun range, such as BB guns or archery, and other activities, which is why she believes it is necessary for children to participate. 

“First and foremost, we teach them the safety on how to be around the BB gun range or archery range so that they don’t injure themselves or anybody else,” Scudder said.

Scudder said children do not have to be scouts to attend the camp, and registration is available the day of, but in order to get a T-shirt, they must register prior.

Campers range in age from first grade to fifth grade. Children entering first grade must be accompanied by an adult companion. 

On July 28 and 29, lunch will be provided. The camp costs $75. Parents can learn more about day camp, complete the needed health paperwork ahead of time, and register for the program online at https://scoutingevent.com/312-64485-162827?fbclid=IwAR0tvcAqJKT6g5Uzn5ZTS5bxgGWU...