More Than Summer Camp: The Power of Play at Casa Emilie
“¡Ganso, ganso, ganso… pato!”
With a burst of laughter, seven-year-old Harlen jumps to her feet and races around the circle, hoping she'll make it back to her spot before being tagged. Around her, dozens of children cheer, laugh, and sprint across the courtyard at Casa Emilie. For a few joyful moments, nothing matters except the game.
This simple childhood game—better known as Duck, Duck, Goose—was just one of many outdoor activities enjoyed by 40 children during the second week of summer camp at Casa Emilie, a program organized by Casa Emilie staff and made possible through the generosity of OYE donors.
But summer camp at Casa Emilie is about much more than keeping children busy during school break. It's a place where children build friendships, discover their culture, stay active, and experience the joy of learning through play.
This year's theme, "Explorers of the Past," invites children and teens to explore archaeology, history, and the rich cultural diversity of Mexico.
“We designed this year’s camp to spark curiosity,” shared Dolores Vargas, Casa Emilie’s Summer Camp Coordinator and the creative mind behind the program. “We want children and teens to discover the value of collective memory, traditions, and the cultural diversity of their community and Mexico.”
Each weekday, campers gather at Casa Emilie for breakfast before diving into a day filled with movement, creativity, and discovery. Between outdoor games and team activities, they participate in language classes, art workshops, and cooking lessons that celebrate the traditions and history of Oaxaca. Next week, campers will visit Monte Albán, the ancient Zapotec archaeological site overlooking Oaxaca City, bringing the stories they've been learning to life.
For sisters Marlene, 11, and Harlen, 7, summer camp has become the highlight of their summer.
“My favorite part of the day is playing ‘ganso, ganso, pato,’” Harlen said with a big smile. “Because you have to run a lot, and I love to run.”
Thanks to the generosity of OYE supporters, children like Harlen and Marlene have a safe place to learn, explore, and simply enjoy being kids. Every game played, every story discovered, and every shared meal helps create a summer filled with curiosity, connection, and memories that will last long after camp comes to an end.
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Every child deserves a summer filled with joy, discovery, and possibility.