Activities

Camp Activities

Each morning as campers get off the bus, they run to the “bowl” (a central grassy area shaped like a bowl) to play games and “TEKO ball,” a time-honored tradition. Beginning with flag raising and songs, campers embark on a day filled with chugim (activities) ranging from waterfront and sports to teva (nature), omanut (arts and crafts) and drama.  Chugim are structured for kids to try something new or develop more skills and have fun in their favorite activities. Campers bring their lunch from home and eat picnic-style in the bowl. Every Friday is Yom Yafeh, a special day when the Temple Israel clergy join us at camp for unique Jewish programming. 

Waterfront

One of the many great assets of the Camp TEKO facility is our access to Lake Minnetonka. Our lifeguard-certified staff supervise a swimming beach and a boating area where kids safely enjoy a variety of water activities. Waterfront rules are carefully explained and enforced. 

Swimming

We have first-time lake swimmers and kids who are pros at swimming in Lake Minnetonka. All children take a swim test to determine the swimming area that matches their ability. All campers are encouraged to swim and participate in swimming activities. Our staff teach “TEKO-Style” swimming lessons and provide appropriate games and fun on the waterfront for all skill levels. Our most advanced swimmers are placed on the “TEKO Swim Team,” where they practice and refine their strokes all session for the big swim meet during the last week of camp. 

Boating

Boating at TEKO is one of our most popular activities. As your child progresses through the program, skill and age-appropriate activities may include speedboat rides, paddling funyaks, canoeing, pontoon swims, paddle boating, tubing, and waterskiing. Groups are scheduled to go boating one or two times each week.

Omanut (Arts & Crafts)

Omanut projects at TEKO range from clay sculptures to lanyards and nature crafts, resulting in works of art suitable for any refrigerator door or display in your home. Campers will develop their creativity using a variety of media.

Teva (Nature)

What better way to learn about the great outdoors than to spend time at summer camp. Campers will gain an appreciation for their natural surroundings and learn the Jewish value of Ba’al Tashchit, keeping the earth. Through nature walks, practicing survival techniques and campfire cooking, campers safely learn age-appropriate outdoor skills.

Sports

During the sports chug, campers develop their motor skills and practice teamwork and sportsmanship while playing kickball, TEKO ball, soccer, maneuvering through obstacle courses, playing cooperative games, and much more. Roofball and GaGa are camp favorites!

Drama & Dance

Theater games, movement, Israeli and modern dance, one-act plays and performing in front of the entire camp are just some of the things that make these chugim exciting and fun.

Israeli Culture

This is a unique opportunity to learn from our Israeli staff who create interactive programs to teach about the history of Israel, Jewish art, Israeli children’s games, Israeli food and much more.

Music

“OHHHH…we’re the kids from TEKO camp you hear so much about…!” The music chug gives campers the opportunity to learn new Jewish camp songs and sing the ones they are already familiar with. Exciting games and dancing make the music chug a hit