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Monica Daniel Gil is owner and Director of Amazonia Day Camp, the first bilingual summer day camp, located in Rochester, NY, serving children 4 to 10 years old.
Share with us your journey to Rochester and the evolution of Amazonia Day Camp.
"I started my first camp in 2006 at home in my country of Venezuela while working as a lead teacher. After moving to the USA in 2014, I volunteered as a teacher at the University of Houston to practice my English and gain valuable teaching experience while I was a student."
"In 2017, we moved to Rochester and I had the experience to work in different daycares and schools as a lead teacher and Spanish teacher."
"It was after the pandemic that I began developing my camp project to provide a nurturing environment that embraces children of all abilities. While my camp officially started a few years ago, the vision and commitment to this idea have been growing since then, driven by my dedication to my children's well-being and a desire to support other families in similar situations."
Do you offer any fall or winter activities?
"Yes, we offer seasonal activities throughout the year. On days when the school district is off, we organize one-day camps, from 9:00am to 4:00pm. For the past two years, we have successfully hosted a Halloween day camp, which has become a popular tradition. Due to increasing requests from parents for more events, we are planning to expand our offerings and are currently preparing to launch an Easter camp next year. Our goal is to provide enriching experiences year-round for the kids."
Is it too early to register for next summer’s camp? When does registration open?
"It is not too early to start planning for next summer! We usually begin promoting our summer camp during Black Friday, but this year, we are planning to open registration in January, offering our biggest deal of the season. We will be sharing promotions during Black Friday and December so parents can prepare to register when the new year starts. Additionally, we offer flexible payment plans, making it easier for families to secure their spot early and manage costs over time."
What is your educational approach to children who have disabilities?
"Our educational approach focuses on fostering inclusivity, empathy, and acceptance. We believe it is important not only to support children with disabilities but also to teach all children and families to be more inclusive and understanding of each other’s differences. By encouraging kids to work together and celebrate diversity, we create an environment where everyone feels valued."
"We also focus on helping children develop social skills and emotional awareness, ensuring that they grow in their ability to relate to and support their peers. This holistic approach prepares children to be compassionate and respectful individuals both in camp and beyond."
As a teacher, you are accustomed to teaching children. But, from your experience, what do the children teach you?
“Children have taught me so much, both as a teacher and as a parent. My own kids, for example, have shown me that every child learns in their own unique way. They have taught me that even when they are frustrated, not doing something perfectly, or not wanting to participate in one activity, they do not give up on each other. Instead, they find ways to help one another through difficult moments, showing incredible empathy and understanding. Rather than fearing differences, they embrace them.”
For further information, please see https://amazoniadaycamp.com/
Location: Grand View Lodge (Powder Mills Park), 49 Woolston Road, Pittsford, NY 14534
Have questions? Call or text +1 (832) 799-7268, or email info@amazoniadaycamp.com.
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