The Isle of Skoo Summer Camp, hosted by Ben’s Lighthouse, wrapped up its first five-day session at Christ the King Lutheran Church on Friday, July 23.

The weeklong morning program featured elaborate puppet shows with beloved characters such as Skoo, Don the Clownfish, and Shelly the Clamshell, as well as music, outdoor playtime, a variety of arts and craft projects, and daily lessons to build social/emotional skills.

Fifteen mentors, ages 12 to 18, were individually partnered with one of the 15 campers, ages 5 to 7, for the week.

Francine Wheeler, creative and administrative director for Ben’s Lighthouse, said the children have had a “nice time connecting with the mentors” and that those interactions are part of “the joy of the program.”

Also, on site to lend a helping hand were two junior mentors, seven staff members, and three puppeteers.

On the last day of camp, there were outdoor carnival games where campers and their mentors made balloon animals, did hand and arm painting, and played ping pong games; there was even a temporary tattoo station.

At the end of the action-packed day, campers took home their crafts from the week and goody bags. Each camper received a framed picture of themselves and puppet Skoo to remember the fun they had at the Isle of Skoo Summer Camp.

A second session took place from July 26 to 30.

The camps were completely free to participants, thanks the generosity of donors.

For more information about Ben’s Lighthouse and the Isle of Skoo, visit benslighthouse.org.

Reporter Alissa Silber can be reached at alissa@thebee.com.