Counselor in Training Program

The Counselor In Training program (known as our “TIC” Program) is currently open to any fifteen and sixteen year-olds who have been campers at CDW. The program aims to teach leadership skills in addition to exposing teens to working with children in a recreational setting.

Applications to the summer 2025 TIC Program are now open!

Click on this link to fill out and submit the application. We recommend you use a laptop or desktop computer to do this, and to type out your answers on a google or word document first, then copy and paste them into the form. Applications are due by Monday, January 13th, 2025.

What happens in the TIC Program?

We offer two TIC sessions per summer, one during the 1st-3rd sessions of camp, and the second during 4th and 5th sessions of camp. Both programs are split into two parts; the first of which consists of educational sessions and skill learning, while the second part provides a hands-on experience in the CDW program with campers and staff members.

During their time at camp, TICs learn about leadership styles, team collaboration, and communication skills.

During the second part of the program, we offer sessions that are more focused on childcare and development. Examples of these concepts are dealing with homesickness, conflict resolution between children, and navigating difficult conversations with kids. After these are discussed within the group, the TICs are integrated into the camp program as assistants in activities, in the cabins, and at meals. They are encouraged to use our more experienced staff members as resources to navigate their new roles as authority figures.

In the last week of the program, TICs are given the most autonomy and responsibility that they have had in their time at CDW. They lead activities with counselors, they run bedtime routines in the cabins, and make important announcements to all of camp in the dining hall. TICs gain tangible experience while they study leadership concepts. The experience, skills and confidence TICs gain in the TIC Program can be applied within CDW, and at home, school, and the community.