A Chick-fil-A in Hammond, Louisiana, has launched a unique initiative this summer, offering a “Chick-fil-A Summer Camp” aimed at teaching children essential life skills. The camp, held from July 15-17, 2024 and July 22-24, 2024, is designed for kids aged 5 to 12 and costs $35 per session. The initiative has garnered both praise and criticism, sparking a debate over its approach to education.
The camp offers a behind-the-scenes look at Chick-fil-A’s operations, providing participants with hands-on experience in hospitality and customer service. Activities include learning to greet customers, taking and bagging orders, touring the kitchen, and making their own ice cream cones or cups. Additionally, campers will meet the Chick-fil-A mascot and interact with team leaders.
Mike Rowe’s Support
Beloved TV host of “Dirty Jobs,” Mike Rowe, defended the camp amid criticisms that it constitutes “child labor.” During an appearance on “Varney & Co.,” Rowe highlighted the camp’s role in filling the gap left by the removal of essential life skills courses from public schools.
“What did we think was going to happen when we took Home Ec, shop, and basic financial literacy out of the public schools?” Rowe questioned. “Sooner or later, somebody is going to step up and say, ‘we have to inculcate these ideas into the next generation.’ If Chick-fil-A is going to be part of leading that charge, God bless them.”
Rowe emphasized the importance of teaching “soft skills, basic common sense,” and other practical abilities that are often overlooked in modern education systems. He praised Chick-fil-A for stepping in to provide these valuable lessons, which he believes are still “for sale and, sadly, lacking” in today’s society.
Parental Reactions
The reaction from parents has been mixed. Some parents appreciate the opportunity for their children to learn practical skills in a real-world environment, seeing it as a beneficial supplement to traditional education. They argue that such experiences can foster a strong work ethic and provide children with a head start in understanding business operations and customer service.
“I think it’s a fantastic idea,” said one parent. “It’s a great way for kids to learn responsibility and the value of hard work in a fun and controlled environment.”