Infrequently Asked Questions

 
Q. Does it really matter if my child is a good writer? She currently handles all of her communication needs quite effectively through a complex set of emojis, and she wants to be a computer programmer when she grows up (i.e., when she turns 15).

A. B4 we write off writing completely, let’s not forget that even the most talented computer scientist in training will need great writing skills. She will need writing to get good grades in high school, so she can be in position to apply for that college with the great computer science program. And of course she’ll need to WRITE the application essays. Early in her career she’ll need to write e-mails to her managers outlining project specs and providing project updates. Later, she’ll need to communicate effectively with her team in writing, and eventually, she’ll need to draft shareholder letters when she’s the CEO of a large tech company. So no, I don’t think she’ll need writing (insert sarcastic Emoji here).

Q. My son is in second grade. Will this summer’s session of Adventures in Writing Camp look good on his Stanford/Harvard/Yale applications?

A. Our understanding is that most top Universities don’t start seriously analyzing an applicant’s academic results and extracurricular activities until the second semester of 3rd grade. (kidding, kidding) What is likely to help, however, is the academic improvement that so often results when a child develops a love of writing and a confidence in his or her own abilities. Don’t overlook how important it is for a child to develop that academic self-confidence at an early age.

Q. I’m a parent. Can I come?

A. YES! You are invited to participate in the “pickup and drop-off” portions of the day at absolutely no additional charge! Perhaps even more interestingly, parents of campers in the elementary programs are also welcome to stay for the first few minutes of the morning assembly each day, and to come up to 15 minutes early to watch the closing assembly. You are also invited to the closing assembly on the final day of camp, and will receive more information about that after registration.