The chilly winds and holiday spirit brought a wave of excitement to Sanibel Sea School’s Winter Camp, welcoming young explorers for an unforgettable adventure filled with marine wonders.

Each day was brimming with creativity and exploration, featuring activities such as ocean artwork, journaling, beach outings, seining, and snorkeling. Campers attended daily surfing sessions that prepared them for the renowned Surf Paddle Race at the end of the week! We concluded each week with the heartwarming “Milk and Cookies Slideshow,” where parents were invited to savor delicious treats while witnessing their children’s camp journey.

The Winter Camp comprised two engaging weeks, each with its distinct theme, captivating young minds and fostering a love for the marine world.

Week 1: Jingle All the Way Week

Spanning from Dec. 27 to 29, this three-day camp focused on shimmering jingle shells, captivating campers with their iridescent hues. Through engaging activities, attendees delved into the lives of the mollusks that create these jingling shells. The week buzzed with festive shell art creations and the formation of the first-ever Sanibel Sea School Jingle Shell Band! Amidst macramé sessions and surfing ventures, the week overflowed with ocean love and the joyous sounds of “Jingle shells, jingle shells, jingle all the way…”

Week 2: Chiton Countdown

Running from Jan. 2 to 5, this four-day expedition delved into the mysteries of chitons, unveiling their fascinating attributes. Campers engaged in experiments to explore chiton vision, scoured the surroundings to find these elusive creatures, and culminated the week by showcasing their “Chiton Couture.” The week also featured traditional activities such as surfing, seining, and games, along with the cherished “Give Your Worries to the Sea” ceremony, marking the start of a promising New Year.

Additionally, our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program catered to teenagers, aiming to nurture leadership skills and foster future employment opportunities. CITs played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between younger campers and counselors, imparting valuable leadership qualities through hands-on experience.