Looking for a summer job that’s a whole lot more than just a paycheck? Working at Breezemont Day Camp might be exactly what you’re after! Nestled in the heart of Armonk, New York, Breezemont is a top-rated, co-ed day camp for kids aged 3-13. 

It’s one of the many incredible summer camps in AmeriCamp’s network, and we’d love to help you land your dream summer job as a camp counsellor there. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about Breezemont Day Camp, and how AmeriCamp helps international applicants with camp matching, visa support, orientation, and more. 

Don’t want to spend your summer restocking shelves or flipping burgers? Start your AmeriCamp application here!

Breezemont Day Camp: The Basics

Before you start packing your bags, it helps to get a clear picture of what makes this camp special. Here’s why campers and staff alike keep coming back to Breezemont year after year. 

Camp History

Breezemont Day Camp has been welcoming campers since 1936, making it one of the longest-running day camps in the region. With over 85 years of experience, the camp has built a rich tradition of summertime fun, learning, and personal growth. While the facilities and activities have evolved with the times, the heart of Breezemont remains unchanged: creating a safe and (seriously) fun space where kids can thrive.

Camp Values

At Breezemont, everything starts with a focus on character, community, and confidence. The camp’s core values include kindness, inclusion, integrity, and teamwork. Being a camp counsellor, you’re expected to model these values daily, whether you’re leading a soccer game, managing camper dynamics, or just hanging out over lunch. Breezemont fosters an environment where both campers and staff feel seen, supported, and encouraged to be their best selves.

Camp Location and Facilities

Located in the scenic town of Armonk, New York, Breezemont sits on a picturesque 18-acre property that feels like a hidden retreat, but is still easily accessible from nearby cities and suburbs. The grounds of this USA summer camp include shaded woods, open green spaces, and modern, well-maintained facilities designed specifically for camp use. 

Highlights include: 

• A private lake for boating and fishing
• Six heated swimming pools
• Sports fields and courts for soccer, volleyball, lacrosse, baseball, basketball, and more
• Adventure courses, including an aerial playground 
• An amphitheatre and art deck
• A nature centre

There’s also a huge dining hall, a mini-golf course, and so much more! 

Camp Programs and Activities

Because Breezemont caters to kids from 3 to 13, there are lots of different age-appropriate activities on offer. There are a few different programs, each based on age: 

• 3 years to Pre-K (Junior Camp)
• Grades 1-3 (Upper Camp)
• Grades 4-8 (Varsity Camp)

For the younger kids in Junior Camp, there’s a higher counsellor-to-camper ratio to keep everyone safe and supervised. The Upper Camp group is all about learning independence, and the Varsity Camp group gives kids more opportunities to choose their activities and explore their interests.

Why Be a Camp Counsellor at Breezemont Day Camp?

Any summer camp job in America is an incredible experience, but there’s a lot to love about Breezemont. You’ll have the chance to interact with kids of all ages, as well as counsellors and staff from all over the world. Plus, it’s stunning! From lakeside afternoons to team-building games and talent shows, each day offers something new. And, as you’re about to see, the benefits go beyond the campgrounds. 

Experience an Amazing American Tradition

Summer camp in America is one of the most iconic parts of the U.S. summer, and Breezemont brings this tradition to life with energy, spirit, and so many laughs. As a counsellor, you’ll be part of a close-knit team helping kids learn new skills, make friends, and build confidence in a screen-free, nature-rich setting. You’ll be having so much fun, you might even forget it’s a job!

Boost Your Resume

Employers value real-world experience, and guess what? American summer camp jobs offer loads of it. From leadership and teamwork to problem-solving and communication, you’ll gain critical soft skills that transfer well into nearly any career field. At Breezemont, counsellors often take on multiple roles: mentor, organiser, coach, and motivator. 

You’ll learn how to manage group dynamics, think on your feet, and lead with empathy. It’s the kind of hands-on experience that stands out on a resume and proves you can rise to any challenge. Breezemont even runs a resume building session for counsellors to explain the best ways to wow employers with all your incredible camp experience!

Travel the U.S. After Camp

Did somebody say road trip? All J-1 camp counsellors have a 30-day grace period on their visa after camp wraps up. That means that once you’re finished working at camp, you can travel anywhere within the U.S. for 30 days until you must return to your home country. 

That’s plenty of time to see the bright lights of New York City, the beaches of Southern California, or even the bears of Yellowstone! Many counsellors choose to travel together after camp; the hardest part is deciding where to go! 

What Do Camp Counsellors Do at Breezemont Day Camp?

A summer camp job abroad at Breezemont Day Camp means stepping into a role that’s action-packed, rewarding, and full of purpose. Here’s what to expect when it comes to day-to-day life, staff culture, and the different counsellor roles available at Breezemont.

What a Normal Day Looks Like

Let’s be real, there’s no such thing as a “normal” day at summer camp! Every day is packed with new adventures, challenges, and so many laughs. There is some structure though; a typical day at Breezemont starts with a morning meeting and staff check-in before the campers arrive. Once the buses roll in, you’ll jump into a schedule of activities, which might include: 

• Swimming
• Sports
• Arts and crafts
• Nature exploration
• STEM workshops
• Themed events

You’ll be assigned to a specific group of campers, and you’ll follow them from activity to activity throughout the day. When you work at a USA summer camp, you’re part big sibling, part hype-person, and part friend. It’s your job to make sure everyone is safe, participating, and having a great time. 

Lunch is enjoyed together picnic-style or in shaded areas, and there’s always something special going on, like talent shows, scavenger hunts, or water games. The day ends with a wrap-up, high-fives, and sending campers home with a smile until you do it all again the next day. 

Staff Culture and Community

Breezemont is known for its positive, inclusive staff culture. From day one, you’ll be welcomed into a close-knit community of counsellors, specialists, and leadership staff who are passionate about creating the best possible experience for campers, and for each other. 

Pre-camp orientation and training help set the tone for teamwork, respect, and communication. Throughout the summer, staff enjoy bonding events, themed dress-up days, and a shared sense of purpose. Even when the days are long, the camaraderie among staff makes the experience feel like being part of one big family. 

Different Camp Counsellor Roles Available

There are several different types of counsellor roles at Breezemont, each suited to those with different camp counsellor qualities and interests:

• Group Counsellors stay with a single group of 12-15 campers all day, providing consistency, supervision, and support as they move through their schedule of around 10 different activities.
• Activity Specialists lead specific age-appropriate areas such as sports, swimming, arts, nature, or adventure courses. These roles are great if you are experienced in or passionate about a particular subject. You don’t always need prior experience, as resources and training are provided.
• Lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors are always in high demand to keep campers safe around the water. First Aid and CPR certification is required, and you must be comfortable teaching swim lessons to non-swimmers.

Regardless of which skills of a camp counsellor you possess and where you slot in, each position plays an essential part in creating a smooth, safe, and spirited summer for Breezemont campers.

What Breezemont Day Camp Looks for in Its Camp Counsellors

Breezemont Day Camp takes pride in hiring counsellors who are not only responsible and reliable, but also genuinely enthusiastic about working with kids. The camp environment is fast-paced, fun, and full of energy, so Breezemont looks for young adults who thrive in this kind of setting and can help foster a safe, positive experience for every camper. Here’s how to make your camp counsellor resume stand out and shine during your interviews.

Core Qualities They Value

At Breezemont, who you are matters just as much as what you’ve done. The camp prioritises personality traits and character over prior experience, especially when hiring younger or first-time counsellors. Here are some of the core qualities they look for:

• Enthusiasm: A great counsellor brings high energy and a positive attitude to every day, even when things get a little messy or unpredictable. Make sure you’re ready to explain why you want to be a camp counsellor, and what you’re passionate about. 
• Patience: Working with kids requires calmness, empathy, and the ability to keep your cool in challenging moments. Try to think of examples when you’ve had to stay patient and share these during your interview.
• Responsibility: Counsellors are trusted with campers’ safety and well-being, so dependability and sound judgment are non-negotiable. On your application, try to add examples of leadership roles or responsibilities you’ve had, like babysitting or tutoring.
• Team spirit: Breezemont values collaboration, and being a great coworker is just as important as being great with kids. Be prepared to answer camp counsellor interview questions about times when you’ve worked as part of a team, and what your strengths were.
• Kindness: Modelling respect, inclusion, and compassion is essential to building the supportive camp culture Breezemont is known for. 

These traits help create an environment where campers feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. Showing that you have these qualities goes a long way to helping you secure a summer job at Breezemont. 

Skills That Make You Stand Out

While personality is key, having certain skills can give your application an edge, especially for activity specialist roles. Make sure you list any unique camp counsellor resume skills, like:

• Sports coaching (e.g., soccer, basketball, tennis)
• Creative arts (e.g., painting, theatre, music)
• STEM (e.g., science experiments, robotics, coding)
• Outdoor adventure (e.g., ropes courses, boating, survival skills)
• Swimming instruction (especially those with lifeguard certification)
• Childcare or teaching experience

Even if you don’t have formal qualifications that might be listed on a summer camp counsellor job description, a passion for any of these areas, and a willingness to share it with kids, can set you apart. 

How to Become a Breezemont Day Camp Counsellor

If you’re excited about spending your summer making a difference, gaining valuable experience, and enjoying everything Breezemont Day Camp has to offer, it’s time to start your application! Here’s what you need to know to prepare for a successful application and become a camp counsellor in America, and how AmeriCamp can help you make it happen.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements

Both Breezemont and AmeriCamp have a few key criteria you must meet:

• Minimum age: You need to be at least 18 years old by June 1st of the year you’re applying for. You can apply when you’re 17, provided you turn 18 before June 1st. 
• Availability: Counsellors are expected to commit to the full camp season, including training/orientation, which generally runs from mid-June through mid-August.
• A passion for working with kids: More than experience or qualifications, Breezemont (and AmeriCamp!) values counsellors who are enthusiastic, patient, and committed to making a difference in children’s lives.
• Background check: All applicants must undergo a background check, which AmeriCamp helps you organise. 

Prior camp or childcare experience is a bonus, but not always required to work at a summer camp in America, as long as you’re passionate and willing to learn! 

Visa Requirements

All international applicants need a J-1 cultural exchange visa to work at Breezemont Day Camp. The visa process can be a bit daunting, but our AmeriCamp team handles most of it for you. Once you’ve accepted a camp placement, we’ll issue your DS-2019 form, which allows you to apply for the visa itself. 

You’ll need to attend an in-person interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country, but overall it’s a straightforward process and we’ll walk you through the steps. After your interview, the embassy will take your passport and mail it back to you (usually within a couple of weeks) with your approved visa inside. 

Our Application Process

Ready to start planning an unforgettable summer? Whether you’re interested in working at Breezemont or one of our other amazing camp partners, here’s how to get a job as a summer camp counsellor: 

1. Complete your AmeriCamp application
2. Chat with our team to learn more about the program
3. Sit tight as we circulate your application among our camp partners
4. Interview with camp directors who think you may be a good fit 
5. Accept your offer to work at a U.S. summer camp (yay!)
6. Apply for your visa (with our help)
7. Check off this AmeriCamp packing list and book your flight!

Remember, we’re with you every step of the way. We’re here to answer any questions or concerns you have about the application process, offer pre-departure support, and make sure you get to camp safely. 

Breezemont Day Camp FAQs

Still have a few questions before you apply to be a counsellor at one of the best summer camps in the U.S.? Below are some of the most frequently asked questions from prospective staff, answered to help you feel more confident and prepared for the adventure ahead.

Do I Need Experience? Is Training Provided?

No prior camp experience? No problem! While any experience working with children (babysitting, coaching, tutoring, etc.) is helpful, it’s not required to apply. Breezemont values your attitude, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn above all else. 

All staff participate in a comprehensive 3-day pre-camp training, which covers child safety, behaviour management, activity planning, and camp procedures. As well as learning the basics of how to be a good camp counsellor, additional training is provided for activity specialists. You'll feel fully supported before campers even arrive, and continue to receive guidance and feedback throughout the summer.

What Should I Pack? Is There a Uniform?

Breezemont provides counsellors with a camp t-shirt (as does AmeriCamp!) and requires staff to wear it each day during camp. Other than that, wear clothes you’re comfortable in, keeping in mind that you’ll be quite active and camp can get messy from time to time! 

For packing tips, you can check out our guide on things to bring to camp as a counsellor. Generally, once you accept a position with a camp, they’ll send you a detailed list of what you need to bring. It usually includes athletic shorts, swimwear, rain gear, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, a hat, and a good pair of sneakers!

What Happens if I Get Homesick?

It’s completely normal to feel a little homesick, especially if this is your first time away from home or travelling internationally. The Breezemont staff community is incredibly supportive, and you’ll have lots of opportunities to connect with fellow counsellors, make friends, and settle into the routine. 

Staff are encouraged to reach out if they’re struggling, and leadership is always available to check in and help. Most counsellors find that once the summer is underway, the fun, friendships, and fast pace help ease homesickness quickly.

Do I Get Time Off?

Yes! While the days are busy and full of activity at this summer adventure camp, Breezemont makes sure staff get time to recharge. Counsellors typically have evenings off, since Breezemont is a day camp and children return home each afternoon. You’ll also have weekends to relax or hang out with fellow staff, and New York City is only 40 minutes away! 

What Is the Food Like?

Since Breezemont is a day camp, lunch and snacks are provided during the camp day, but counsellors are usually responsible for their own meals outside of camp hours, especially if they are living off-site (international counsellors live off-site in Breezemont’s camp-arranged housing). 

During camp hours, food is kid-friendly, nutritious, and varied, with options that cater to common dietary restrictions. Think sandwiches, salads, fruit, and occasional treats (hello, pizza and ice cream!) on special days.

Enjoy the Summer of a Lifetime at Breezemont Day Camp!

Working at one of the best summer camps in the USA, like Breezemont Day Camp, is an incredible opportunity. With its beautiful location, rich camp traditions, and inclusive, supportive staff community, you’ll be so glad you decided to take the leap and do something incredible. 

Spending a summer overseas requires a lot of planning and coordination, but with AmeriCamp on your side, it’s never been easier. We’ll help you land the perfect camp job, make sure your visa is all set, and provide all the support you need throughout your adventure. 

What are you waiting for? Start your AmeriCamp application today!