May 14, 2004

Kids can learns basics of starting a business

by Yolanda Shelton

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- If your child has a head for business, you'll want to be sure to sign them up for the upcoming, weeklong Camp CEO at Southern Illinois University Carbondale.

Geared to kids in grades six through eight, the camp will meet June 13-18 and will teach campers about starting their own small businesses.

The all-inclusive fee for residential campers is $420 and commuters may attend for $350. Adults will provide supervision throughout the action-packed week.

Campers will be introduced to business concepts and will meet a variety of entrepreneurs.

They'll also learn about negotiations, sales, customer service, leadership, problem solving, networking, time management, record keeping and public speaking.

In addition to leadership training sessions, campers will make business site visits, attend networking receptions, hear from guest speakers and will attend a professional etiquette dinner.

Leisure time will be spent at the SIUC Student Recreation Center and in outdoor activities.

For more information contact the SIUC Division of Continuing Education at 618/536-7751 or visit its Web site athttp://www.dce.siu.edu and click on youth programs.

The Southern Illinois Entrepreneurship Center is organizing the camp.