A week-long summer program bringing American history to life for children in Pocatello is expanding this year to mark the nation’s 250th anniversary. Constitution Camp will run June 15-19 at Calvary Chapel, offering hands-on historical education to 100 young participants.
Reconnect Southeast Idaho organizes the annual camp, which relies on more than 60 volunteers to create immersive learning experiences. Children rotate through stations where they participate in activities designed to connect them with the founding era and early American history.
Hands-On Historical Learning
Camp activities include marching through simulated Revolutionary War conditions with rags tied to their feet alongside a volunteer portraying George Washington. Participants also experience colonial daily life by feeding chickens, baking bread, and making root beer.
Michele Holyoak, the camp director, explained that this year’s program will cover a broader span of American history than in previous years. Rather than focusing solely on the Revolutionary period, campers will journey through events from the Mayflower landing through World War II.
Daily sessions run from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with children practicing for a community performance throughout the week. They memorize foundational texts including the preamble to the Constitution and work on craft projects such as sewing stars.
Community Performance Friday Evening
The camp week concludes with a free public performance at 6 p.m. on June 19. The entire Pocatello community is invited to attend as campers showcase what they’ve learned through the week’s activities.
Community members serve as volunteers, with some working as instructors and others donning period costumes to portray historical figures. Local teachers are among those who donate their time to make the experience meaningful for participating children.
Teaching Patriotism Through Experience
According to Holyoak, the program aims to create lasting emotional connections rather than focusing on rote memorization of dates and details. The goal is to instill feelings of patriotism, courage, and appreciation for freedom that children will carry into adulthood.
She said the camp strives to give participants “true heroes in their pockets” and a “spirit of freedom and spirit of patriotism and love of country” that will stay with them throughout their lives.
What Comes Next
Fewer than 30 spots remain available in the expanded 100-camper program. Families who register by April 30 will receive a T-shirt with their child’s enrollment. Additional information and registration details are available through Reconnect Southeast Idaho’s website at reconnectsoutheastidaho.org.
The organization continues to seek volunteers for the June program. Those interested in helping bring American history to life for Pocatello children can find more information through the same website.