By: Eric Fisher

CONWAY, Mass. (abc40) -- Many kids go to summer camp, but Earthwork Programs are just a little bit different. Director Frank Grindrod says that's by design.

"By games and activities and all those things that are so much fun, we are able to seep some learning in there," says Grindrod.

When kids show up, there's an array of tools waiting for them. Sticks and flint to make fire with, straw to make rope with, animal skins, and an assortment of tracking tools.

For over a decade, Earthwork Programs have been trying to reconnect kids (and adults) with nature.

"The IPods and the IPhones and the Gameboys and all those different types of things are drawing people into being at home, on the computer," says Grindrod.

Here, the campers spend the entire day outside, rain or shine. If it rains, they build a shelther. If it's sunny, they may go for a walk through the woods and learn about beneficial uses of plants, or perhaps how to track animals. It's a unique expience and campers often come back looking for more.

"It's really changed what I do, even when I'm not at camp," says Andrew Row, a 13-year old camper and leader-in-training.

His father has watched his skills blossom over the past few years he's attended Earthwork.

"He just loves being outdoors, so this is the camp for him," says his father Peter Row. "As far as he's concerned, Frank walks on water."

Grindrod tells abc40 that he feels kids are too used to instant gratification and are disconnected to the natural world. He hopes to break those walls down and bring them closer to the earth, while encouraging learning and social skills at the same time.

"It's not important to learn how to make fire by rubbing sticks together, even though that's what they're doing," says Grindrod. "It's the process and thinking that matters."

Earthwork Programs run throughout the year in all seasons, and are available for adults as well. For more information, you can check out their website at www.earthworkprograms.com