Do you have a solution to the Race to Nowhere?

Reel Link Films has made a new documentary directed by Vicki Abelels. The film is "Race to Nowhere" and will likely cause some controversy, especially among our colleagues in the field of education. The film might even clearly draw battle lines between parents and teachers. Watch the trailer here (it's only 3 minutes long)

Where do you find yourself in this debate? 

Well...here's the deal. Whether you agree or not as a parent or a teacher, put on your camp director hat for just a moment. There's a girl at the 1:40 mark of the trailer who says this, "I can't really remember the last time I just went out in the back yard and just ran around." Sounds to me like language camps should be listening very carefully to.

Here's what I think. I think this documentary is speaking mom's language. Loud and clear. I think she sees her kids in distress and will completely agree with the message of this film. I think she feels as trapped in the system as the kids interviewed in this clip.

Here's what else I know. When you start to write copy and deliver messages to your tribe that sounds like this film...you'll resonate with mom. When you are able to offer an alternative to the vicious cycle talked about in Race to Nowhere, moms will flock to your front gate.

Never forget...you are NOT marketing summer camp. You are marketing changed lives. And chances are, you've got a long history of success in making a difference. You know it's not just a paddle boat or a zip line or a horseback ride. These are powerful tools in the hands of well-trained professionals changing their world one kid's life at a time. 

As a camp person, you KNOW this is true. So why aren't you telling these stories?

Comments

[Byron Hill]

Definitely a thought provoking trailer. I like the way you connected the dots to Christian camping. Camps provide a place where kids can just be kids, without the pressure of competition. That's a story we must do a better job of telling!

Thanks for an excellent post Mike!

[Yoyojoer]

I can't wait to see the movie. I can't wait to get a showing going on at camp, in local communities. As a Camp Director married to a teacher, this is something we talk about all the time - our kids need to play. Kids need to play everyday.

[Philam]

Yeah, this movie is great. I'm sure many people around the globe will love it.