Parent Handbook Camp Si-La-Meo Summer 2015 - The campus of Alaska Pacific University provides the per- fect environment for campers to experience ...
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Parent Handbook
Camp Si-La-Meo
Summer 2015
The campus of Alaska Pacific University provides the per-
fect environment for campers to experience nature, partici-
pate in outdoor activities and discover new interests.
Since 1978
Dear Family,
Welcome! We are pleased to serve you and your Camp Fire Alaska
child in our outdoor programs. 161 Klevin Street, Suite 100
Anchorage, AK 99508
This handbook is full of helpful details and infor-
mation. Please keep it in an accessible place for Phone: 907-279-3551
reference throughout the year. Fax: 907-278-9829
www.campfireak.org
Camp Fire Alaska occasionally makes changes
in program policies. Families receive notifica- Tax ID: 92-0029613
tion of changes through the updated program
handbook at the beginning of the season. When Office Hours:
we must change policy or substantially change Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm
program operations mid-season, we will notify
families in writing.
In the event you cannot find the information you
need in this handbook, we encourage you to visit Questions? Concerns?
our website at www.campfireak.org, talk to the
Director at your program site or call our office at All suggestions for improving our program are
279-3551. welcome and valued. Please contact
Katie Adrian, Program Manager at 257-8825
Creating a program experience for your child that
You may contact the Director of Program
is nurturing, fun and enriching is a priority for all Services with any unresolved issues.
of us. We welcome your input, and look forward
to working with you and your family.
Our Office Staff:
Chief Executive Officer Barbara Dubovich
Director of Administration & Finance Carla Oliver
Director of Development & Marketing Joanne Phillips-Nutter
Director of Human Resources & Risk Management Nandita Lal
Director of Program Services Nicole Lebo
Manager of School Age Programs Aimee Wedemeier
Family Services Program Manager Cassie Hutchings
Professional Development Manager Carrie Hackett
Camp Si-La-Meo and School Age Program Manager Katie Adrian
Camp K, Rural and School Age Program Manager Melanie Hill
School Age Program Manager Kate Maxwell
Administrative Manager Annette Candley
Accounting Manager Debra Burroughs
Customer Services Representative Patricia Hamilton
Customer Services Representative Krystal Eastman
1Who is Camp Fire?
Our Promise
Young people want to shape the world.
Camp Fire provides the opportunity to find their
spark, lift their voice, and discover who they are.
In Camp Fire, it begins now.
Light the fire within
Camp Fire Alaska
Core Values:
• Caring relationships
Camp Fire Alaska • Positive experiences promoting healthy life
Mission Statement: choices
Every child will have an opportunity to discover • Diversity and inclusiveness in all endeavors
the best in themselves and others in a fun and • Outdoor programs fostering competence,
safe learning environment. stewardship and joy with the natural world
• Excellence through innovation
• Quality programs - best practices
• Tustworthy - ensuring safe, secure, and de-
pendable experiences
• Fiscally responsible/financially sustainable
Civil Rights Law:
Camp Fire Alaska does not discriminate in the regis- Commitment to our
tering of children due to race, religion, color, creed,
economic status, national origin, physical and mental customers:
handicap, or gender as per A.S. 18.80.230 and AMC • We will value our relationship with you.
5.20.50 and Camp Fire Alaska by-laws. • We will seek to understand and meet your
needs.
• We will communicate clearly and thoughtfully.
Inclusiveness Statement:
• We will provide quality programs and
Camp Fire Alaska realizes the dignity and worth of
services.
each individual and works to eliminate human barri-
ers based on all assumptions which prejudge indi-
viduals.
• All Camp Fire program locations and offices are smoke-free, alcohol-free and
drug-free environments.
2 • Camp Fire is an equal opportunity employer and provider.Why choose an
ACA-Accredited
Camp?
ACA Accreditation means that your child’s camp How do ACA standards exceed state licens-
cares enough to undergo a thorough (up to 300 ing requirements?
standards) review of its operation — from staff ACA goes beyond basic requirements for health,
qualifications and training to emergency man- cleanliness, and food service into specific areas
agement. American Camp Association collabo- of programming, including camp staff from direc-
rates with experts from the American Academy tor through counselors, emergency management
of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other plans, health care, and management. ACA ap-
youth-serving agencies to assure that current plies separate standards for activities such as
practices at your child’s camp reflect the most waterfront, horseback riding, and adventure and
up-to-date, research-based standards in camp travel.
operation. Camps and ACA form a partnership
that promotes growth and fun in an environment What are some of the ACA standards that
committed to safety. camps rely on?
• Staff to camper ratios are appropriate for differ-
ACA helps member camps provide: ent age groups
• Healthy, developmentally appropriate activities • Goals for camp activities are developmentally
and learning experiences based
• Discovery through experiential education • Emergency transportation available at all times
• Caring, competent role models • First-aid facilities and trained staff available
• Service to the community and the environment when campers are present
• Opportunities for leadership and personal
growth Does ACA accreditation require criminal
background checks?
What’s the difference between state licensing ACA accreditation standards require a staff
of camps and accreditation by ACA? screening system which may include criminal
Accreditation is voluntary and ACA accreditation background checks where permitted by law.
assures families that camps have made the com- When talking to a camp director as you consider
mitment to a safe, nurturing environment for their enrolling your child, ask what the screening pro-
children. If a state requires licensing, it is manda- cess for that camp includes.
tory; licensing requirements vary from state to
state. ACA standards are recognized by courts of How can I verify that my child’s camp is ACA
law and government regulators as the standards accredited?
of the camp community. Visit the ACA’s Web site at www.ACAcamps.
org or call 1-800-428-CAMP.
3Camp Fire Alaska
General Policies
Registration Registration and Deposit Fees
Camp Fire accepts children into our outdoor Camp Fire requires a $50 per child annual
programs on a first come, first served basis. The registration fee upon registration for all 2015
registering parent/adult must register their child programs. This fee is non-refundable and non-
for each session desired every year. Camp Fire transferable. Camp Fire requires a $25 per child,
holds the registering parent/adult responsible for per session non-refundable and non-transferable
all fees unless another adult notes in writing their deposit.
responsibility for all or part of the program fees.
All registering parents/adults establish a contract
Online registration is available on the Camp with Camp Fire Alaska. To change enrollment the
Fire website at www.campfireak.org. registering parent/adult must provide written no-
tice one week prior to the 1st day of the month.
A copy of current immunization record, that Without this written notice, Camp Fire holds the
includes the date of most recent tetanus shot, registering parent/adult financially responsible for
is required for all participants, due prior to at- the contracted enrollment fees.
tendance. For more information visit the website
at www.campfireak.org or contact the office at
279-3551.
General Fee Information
• There are no refunds or credits for non-atten-
dance on any contracted day.
Records • No pro-rated enrollment plans, hourly or daily
Completed registration, medical and immuniza- rates are available.
tion records are due at the time of registration for • Third-Party authorizations, contracts or paper-
all participants. work must accompany the registration packet to
avoid paying the full amount of the registration
Two current telephone numbers where staff fee and deposit at the time of registration.
members can reach the registering parent/adult,
as well as two local emergency contact numbers Fee Payment
(not registering parent/adult) are required. Camp Fire mails statements on the 20th of each
month with a return envelope for your mailing
If Camp Fire staff cannot reach the registering convenience. All fees are due on the 1st of the
parent/adult, they will call the emergency contact month and no later than 5:00pm on the 10th of
numbers. Emergency contacts are limited to the the month. If a statement does not arrive, contact
Anchorage and Eagle River area. our Customer Service Department at 279-3551.
Failure to receive a statement does not relieve
you of payment responsibility.
Confidentiality
Camp Fire staff will maintain confidentiality in
Camp Fire accepts cash, checks, credit cards
regard to all children and their family information.
and money orders. Please do not send cash
through the mail. Payments may be brought to or
mailed to: Camp Fire Alaska,161 Klevin Street,
4 Suite 100, Anchorage, AK 99508.Camp Fire Alaska
General Policies
Credit Card Payments Information Changes
Camp Fire accepts VISA, Master Card, and Dis- Camp Fire requires registering parents/adults to
cover. Camp Fire offers automatic monthly credit provide current information on record. Changes
card processing. Registering parents/adults of information such as address, phone numbers,
interested in credit card payment or automatic emergency contact information and employment
processing may call our Accounts Receivable must be made online through your registration
department at 279-3551. These payments are account.
charged to credit cards on the first business day
of the month. Change of Enrollment
Camp Fire understands families may need to
change enrollment during the season. We re-
Third-Party Payments/ quire advanced written notice to manage staffing
Financial Assistance and accounting needs.
Camp Fire holds the registering parent/adult 1: Contact our main office 279-3551
responsible for submitting any contracts, autho- 2: All changes must be made in writ-
rizations or paperwork from a third-party agency ing via fax or email. FAX: 278-9829
which covers part or all of your fees. Camp Fire EMAIL: campfire@campfireak.org
will bill the agency on a monthly basis. The regis- 3: Change requests need to be submit-
tering parent/adult is responsible for all fees the ted in writing 1 week prior to the begin-
agency does not cover. ning of the month to be changed.
Please consider the following when changing
Delinquent Accounts enrollment plans:
Camp Fire charges a $25 late payment fee on • Camp Fire accepts changes of enrollment for
the 11th of the month on all accounts that have the contracting party only.
a balance of $100.00 or more. Services may be • Camp Fire holds registering parent/adult fi-
terminated due to delinquent accounts. This ter- nancially responsible for the original contracted
mination may prohibit program services through amount without written notice.
Camp Fire in the future. Families may lose child- • There are no refunds or credits for absences.
care assistance benefits. Camp Fire may turn
over the account to Cornerstone Credit Services,
L.L.C. for formal collection.
Tax Information
Keep the bottom portion of your monthly state-
ment for your records. Registering parents/adults
Collection Agency are responsible for records of payments. Camp
Camp Fire Alaska has a collection agreement Fire does not provide year-end statements for
with Cornerstone Credit Services for all dishon- tax return purposes. There is a $16 charge to
ored checks and delinquent accounts.: generate a statement.
1835 South Bragaw Street, Suite 700, Camp Fire’s Tax I.D. number is 92-0029613.
Anchorage, AK, 99508
Phone: 907-770-8100
5Camp Fire Alaska
General Policies
Photographs Injuries & Illnesses
Occasionally Camp Fire takes photos or videos Camp Fire staff will inform the registering parent/
of program activities for news releases, bro- adult of any injuries or illnesses that occur during
chures, reports, etc. Photos are not used without program. Staff will contact the registering parent/
parental permission, as indicated on the regis- adult in the event of a non-serious injury or ill-
tration form. If you need to modify this release, ness that requires medical care. Staff will appro-
please notify site leadership or the main office, in priately care for the child until an adult can pick
writing. them up. The registering parent/adult is respon-
sible for submitting all bills for injuries sustained
Release to an Authorized at program to the Administrative Manager at the
Pickup/Emergency Contact main Camp Fire office.
Camp Fire releases youth to the registering
parent/adult or other persons designated on the Insurance
registration form by the registering parent/adult. Camp Fire Alaska carries Limited Accident Insur-
Additions to the authorized list can be made at ance which covers all participants in Outdoor
any time by the registering parent. Camp Fire Programs with a limit of $7,500 per incident.
requires that person to show photo identification Treatment must begin within 30 days of the
prior to the child’s release. Individuals under the incident. The insurance covers claims received
age of 16 are not authorized to sign out a child within 52 weeks from the date of the incident.
from program. If an individual under the age of Send all requests for reimbursement to the
16 attempts to do so, staff will notify the register- Administration Manager at the Camp Fire office.
ing parent/adult who will need to make other ar- Camp Fire Alaska also carries General Liability
rangements for another qualified person to pick Insurance with a $1,000,000 limit.
up the child. If an authorized or emergency con-
tact appears to be under the influence of drugs Goals & Outcomes of
and/or alcohol, Camp Fire staff will not release Outdoor Programs
the child until another authorized adult assumes Camp Fire Alaska Outdoor Programs embrace
responsibility for the child. Camp Fire Alaska’s guiding statements by pro-
viding opportunities for youth to discover the best
Custody Arrangements in themselves and others in a fun, safe, learning
Camp Fire recognizes many families have environment. We do that by providing collabora-
unique custody arrangements. Specific court tive relationships with caring adults, nurturing
orders will be necessary in order for Camp Fire youth’s social and emotional growth/learning
to deny access to any legal parent/adult. and promoting healthy life choices. Whether the
We encourage families to find solutions to cus- outdoor program is a day or resident camp, it is
tody issues without putting children and/or staff consistent with the Camp Fire Alaska value of
in a difficult position. When a difficult position fostering competence, stewardship, and joy with
presents itself, staff will discuss the issue with the natural world.
both parties to find a solution which minimizes
the stress for the child.
6Camp Fire Alaska
General Policies
Camp Fire Alaska Youth Increased Knowledge of and Apprecia-
Development Outcomes of tion for the Natural Environment
1.Participate in activities which develop com-
the Outdoor Programs petencies necessary to feel comfortable in the
While the specific outcomes may differ to some
Alaska outdoors
degree depending on the type of outdoor pro-
2.Learn and practice Leave no Trace and mini-
gram, there are several that are key to all Camp
mum impact camping skills
Fire Alaska outdoor experiences:
3.Participate in investigations/activities that make
• Greater self-awareness and positive values
use of all of the senses
• Increased social skills and sense of belonging
4.Participate in planning and carrying out inves-
• Increased knowledge and appreciation for the
tigations/activities that enhance environmental
natural environment
conservation and appreciation of nature.
• Increased sense of competency and empower-
5.Become familiar with Alaskan plants, animals
ment
and ecosystems and issues affecting them
Achieving Outcomes 6.Learn and practice environmental stewardship
These youth development outcomes are the skills
benefits young people receive or the changes
in their behavior, skills, knowledge, attitudes,
Increased Sense of Competency
values, condition or other attributes following the & Empowerment
program. Outcomes are best achieved through 1.Participate in progressive activities for their
purposeful design, structure, and implementation age and skill ability
of the whole program in a positive environment. 2.Have opportunities to successfully plan, imple-
ment and complete an activity
Greater Self Awareness & 3.Be listened to and heard by staff and other
Positive Values campers
1.Set and achieve goals 4.Develop ability to set and meet goals and to
2.Learn to reflect and to make positive changes reflect on the process
based on those reflections 5.Receive praise and recognition
3.Make healthy choices in food, activities, and
relationships Achieving Outcomes Through
4.Find value in themselves and in others Kid-Sized Values
In order to achieve the outcomes, Camp Fire will
Increased Social Skills & provide values-based programming. This pro-
Sense of Belonging gramming will use youth-appropriate language to
1.Respect the ideas and opinions of each other relate Camp Fire Alaska’s core values, the 6 Cs
2.Learn and practice democratic, group decision of Thriving from the Thrive Foundation for Youth,
making processes and specific, observable actions. The values that
3.Learn and practice peaceful conflict resolution will be focused on are:
skills • Caring – positive relationships, clear sense of
4.Be a productive, participating member of a right and wrong
team • Striving – confidence, perseverance, healthy
7Camp Fire Alaska
General Policies
life choices focuses on the needs of the child and contributes
• Thriving – passionate interest, resourcefulness, positively to the child’s overall development. Staff
clear vision, contribution members teach children about managing their
behaviors and emotions as well as about conflict
Guidance, Discipline & Rules management techniques, to support them as
they become responsible for resolving conflicts
Philosophy among themselves.
Camp Fire is dedicated to improving lives for
youth through developing high quality youth
Note: There are times when restrictions may be
programming. Outdoor Program Staff play a key
necessary, and will most likely be directly linked
role in building and implementing a program that
to the health, safety, or well-being of that youth
aligns with the Goals and Outcomes of Outdoor
or others. Camp Fire Staff does not use corpo-
Programs outlined in the previous section.
ral punishment under any circumstance. In the
event of a child harming themselves, another
An essential key to “building caring, confident
child, or an adult, staff may physically restrain
youth and future leaders” at Camp Fire is to cre-
the child in order to ensure safety.
ate an environment where youth feel safe, cared
for, and engaged. Outdoor Program Staff have
a direct responsibility to ensure that Camp Fire
is safe not only physically, but emotionally, and Inappropriate Behavior
to create an open environment where youth can Camp Fire does not tolerate behavior that threat-
fine-tune their skills and learn about themselves ens the physical or emotional safety of self or
and how to navigate and function in the world. others; destructive behavior; behavior that is of
The core element to promoting this safe and a habitual nature to the degree that it is a detri-
supportive environment is for staff to be aware ment to the quality of the program or impedes
of youth’s developmental needs and then guide other participants from engaging in program to
and support them to getting their needs met in a the full extent; or behavior that is of a sexual
healthy and positive way. nature.
Camp Fire promotes behavior guidance and Should a child display these behaviors, Camp
discipline through creating a supportive environ- Fire Leadership will contact the registering par-
ment, developing structure and clear limits, pro- ent/adult in a timely manner. For some types of
moting social and emotional learning, implement- behaviors, daily reports will be made to address
ing skillful discipline, and addressing challenging undesired or unsafe behaviors and allows the
behaviors. family and Camp to partner to improve the be-
havior; due to the nature of Day Camp, this is
Camp Fire uses positive discipline, which means more likely at Camp Si-La-Meo and less likely at
staff promote desired behaviors through teaching Camp K.
and reinforcement. Staff will redirect or problem-
solve with youth when they are not displaying If the child’s behavior is out of control and/or
desired behaviors, rather than restrict behaviors harmful, Camp Fire Leadership may request im-
by taking away opportunities or controlling youth mediate pick up and/or a suspension from pro-
by fear of punishment. We believe this approach gram. If a suspension occurs, Camp Fire Leader-
8Camp Fire Alaska
General Policies
ship may require a Behavior Intervention Plan further accommodations fall outside Camp Fire’s
(BIP) before the child re-enters program, which level of expertise; whether our inability to provide
is a plan to outline the supports and response accommodation is based on the level of required
necessary to eliminate unsafe behaviors. Camp care or the extended period of time working
Fire may also refer to and require information with an unsuccessful (though progressive) set
from a professional resource in the community of interventions, Camp Fire reserves the right to
for support and guidance. Open communication decline service. As a result, it is determined that
and full cooperation is required from the register- the program is not an appropriate placement for
ing parent/adult when creating this BIP. Follow- the child and attempts will be made to refer the
up meetings may occur to monitor progress and/ family to alternative care.
or concerns. Dismissal from the program may
occur depending on the severity and frequency
of the behavior. No-Tolerance Policy
Camp Fire has a no-tolerance policy for
Individual Needs physical violence, use of cigarettes, alco-
Camp Fire seeks to make possible the participa-
hol, controlled substances, sexual activ-
tion of every child in its programs. When working
ity, and firearms that places self, other
with a family whose child has a medical or be-
children, or staff at risk. This applies to all
havioral condition, Camp Fire provides services
staff, children, visitors, and parents while
to assess the program’s capability to provide
present at Camp Fire sites.
necessary accommodations. Families have
the right to request an accommodation for their
Camp Fire, at times, provides structured
youth at any time. This can be done through
activities involving archery and riflery, with
updating the child’s registration online. It is the
trained and qualified staff supervising. At no
families’ responsibility to answer all the questions
other time is any person permitted to carry
on the registration page honestly and to the best
any type of firearm, ammunitions and/or
of their ability, which is the first way Camp Fire
weapon in Camp Fire programs for any rea-
can learn about a youth’s needs. Camp Fire will
son unless they are law enforcement officers
work with the family to develop a Plan of Care,
required to carry these weapons as part of
which outlines the youth’s strengths, abilities,
their uniform/job, and disclose this informa-
challenges, and requested supports or resources
tion to the Camp Leadership team. Violation
required to meet their unique needs. Should a
of this policy will result in immediate dismiss-
child acquire a new need, or experience a life
al from the program. As a general rule, Camp
change that may affect their needs in the pro-
Fire Alaska will follow the Anchorage school
gram, the registering parent/adult will be required
district guidelines when a child violates no-
to complete and/ or update a Plan of Care so we
tolerance rules. Immediate suspension and/
may continue to provide quality care.
or dismissal from the program may occur.
We are an inclusive agency and work hard to
Camp Fire will act expediently as possible in
partner with families and local agencies to find
responding to any claims. Suspension may
solutions allowing for youth with varied challeng-
occur even while an incident is being investi-
es and abilities to access our programs. Unfor-
gated.
tunately, there are times when it is found that
9Camp Fire Alaska
General Policies
Abuse and Neglect items should not be brought to camp. Camp Fire
Alaska State Statutes and Anchorage Child Care Alaska is not responsible for lost or damaged
Regulations require all childcare providers to personal equipment.
report all incidents of suspected or actual abuse Weapons, fireworks, alcohol, drugs, or poten-
and neglect of children. As required by law, tially dangerous objects may not be brought to
Camp Fire Alaska reports such incidents within camp. If these items are suspected at camp,
24 hours to the Office of Children’s Services at parents will be notified and any items found will
269-4000. In addition, if abuse or neglect were be seized and held until parent’s arrival. Pets are
alleged to have occurred while at Camp Fire, we not allowed in camp, and must remain in cars if
are required to report to the Licensing Agency. brought to campus.
Substance Use
Camp Fire is a smoke-free, alcohol-free and
drug-free environment. Camp Fire maintains
a smoke-free environment, including vehicles
used to transport children. Smoking is prohibited
inside any program facility, in outdoor program
areas, and outside within 20 feet of openings into
interior space which children access.
Parental Conduct
Dismissal may occur if an adult uses threatening
communications or conduct towards any par-
ticipant, staff member, or others associated with
Camp Fire that creates an unsafe or hostile work
environment. Registering parents/adults must
follow the policies described in this handbook; in-
cluding attending conferences, payment of fees,
and late charges.
Personal Property
Campers who choose to use personal belong-
ings, sports equipment, and supplies will do so
at their own risk! Storage and safe-keeping of
personal equipment is the responsibility of the
owner of the equipment. All personal equipment
used within the program must meet the pro-
gram standards and requirements for safety and
condition. Equipment needed is provided, so we
recommend that personal property is not brought
to camp. Electronic and other toys or personal
10Camp Si-La-Meo
Parent Handbook
Day camp on the campus of Alaska Pacific University
Camp Fire office: 279-3551
Camp Si-La-Meo office: 564-8391
Katie Adrian, Program Manager: 257-8825
Arrival at Camp Information about special camp events will be
Earliest check-in time is 7:30 am. You will need available at the sign-in table. Please indicate on
to check your child in every day. the timetable sheet what time you expect to pick
Please plan to have your child at program by up your child, and let staff know if your child has
9:00, so that they do not miss any group activi- any special needs for the day.
ties.
Please avoid drop-offs after 9:00 am and pick-
Departure from Camp
Please park and sign your camper out each day.
ups before 4:00 pm if at all possible, as it re-
quires us to disrupt activities already underway The latest time for pick up is 5:30. A late fee
as staff must accompnay indivudual children to of $10.00 per child, per 15 minutes, will be as-
their assigned groups. sessed to all pick-ups after 5:30.
Parent
Parking
Lot
Pick-up &
Drive slowly and watch carefully Drop-off
for children in and around the Location
parking lot.
11Camp Si-La-Meo
Parent Handbook
Leaving Camp Early & directs that the following may be used to treat
campers: epinephrine autoinjector, Benadryl,
Transportation Changes Albuterol, sting relief antiseptic, antibacterial
If you need to make changes to your child’s cream, Calamine, Caladryl, and burn antisep-
transportation arrangement or to leave camp tic. If you do not wish your child to be given
early for any reason, arrangements need to be any of these medications, please indicate this
made with the Camp Fire office or Si-La-Meo on the health form completed during enroll-
Leadership Staff at camp in advance. Any chang- ment or update this on your child’s record in
es or emergencies in camper drop-off or pick-up writing at camp. If your child does not feel
times will be communicated via the Camp Fire well, or if a medical need arises, Leader-
main office to phone numbers listed on registra- ship Staff will notify you immediately. Simple
tion forms. scratches, bumps and bruises, etc. that are
routine with children, will be reported to you
Visiting Camp at the end of the day by your child’s coun-
If you would like to visit camp with your child selor. Leadership Staff and your child’s Camp
before their session, please contact the Program Counselor will review your health history and
Manager, Katie Adrian, at 257-8825 or 564-8391 collect any medications (over-the-counter and
to make an appointment. Any visitor to camp prescribed) that you are sending with your
after a child has been signed into program must child. All medications (prescription and over-
check in with the Leadership Staff upon arrival. the-counter) that you send with your child,
For the safety of our campers and staff, Camp including vitamins, cough drops, etc.- must be
Si-La-Meo is a closed program, and all visits dur- in original containers. Medications (prescrip-
ing sessions must be scheduled and approved tion and over-the-counter) will be adminis-
by the Program Manager. tered according to the instructions printed on
the orignal container. Any directions that are
Communication different from those on the package must be
The camp phone is used for daily communication provided by a physician. Medications will be
with the main Camp Fire office, and with parents/ stored in the camp office. Put all medication
guardians. Camp Si-La-Meo Leadership Staff will bottles in a zip loc bag and mark with camp-
call you if there is any need for concern regard- er’s name.
ing your child’s health or well being. Please note
that your child will not have access to a phone, Sunscreen & Bug Repellant
and non-emergency phone use is not available Families must provide these items, labelled
to campers. with the child’s name. Counselors will guide
youth in applying their own sunscreen and
Health Care and Emergencies bug repellant.
Camp Si-La-Meo Leadership Staff provide man-
agement of the healthcare plan at camp. The Food and Meals
healthcare plan is prescribed and reviewed an- Parents must provide campers with individual
nually by a participating physician. This includes nutritious sack lunches and two snacks from
a standard set of treatments for a variety of child- home during each session. Sandwiches, fresh
hood complaints and simple injuries. The plan fruits and vegetables, canned fruit items such
12Camp Si-La-Meo
Parent Handbook
as applesauce, crackers, cheese, muffins, and shoes and nylon clothes will keep campers com-
100% fruit juices are recommended. Please do fortable. A change of clothing may be needed.
not send foods that require refrigeration or heat-
ing. Items high in sugar content such as cookies, • The day your camper uses the climbing wall,
candy bars, and soft drinks are not recommend- clothing that allows for mobility will help to make
ed. their climb a success.
Please send a full water bottle with your camper • Flip flops and sandals can injure feet during
every day. The campers are very active, and in outdoor hiking and play, so please keep these
sunny or cloudy weather, dehydration is always items at home.
a concern. Refill stations are provided to ensure • Camp Fire is an electronics-free environment.
campers have enough water throughout the day. Please make sure your camper leaves cell
phones, tablets, games, music players, and all
Packing List other electronic devices at home.
• A backpack large enough to keep your campers
belongings together and organized is essential. • Outdoor Adventure campers are allowed to sign
Your counselor will inform you of any special themselves into camp. Parents will need to com-
supplies needed for the next day’s activities plete the required form granting their
(such as rubber boots). child(ren) permission to sign in. If your Outdoor
Adventure camper will be riding a bicycle to and
• For all campers, clothes suitable for outdoor from program, a helmet must be worn, and a
play are necessary. Sneakers and hiking boots bike lock used to secure the bike during pro-
are the best foot gear for children at camp. gram. Camp will not be responsible for any dam-
age or theft of bikes brought to camp. Campers
• Alaska’s summer weather is unpredictable, so providing their own transportation to camp may
keeping rain gear and a warmer jacket in your not use their bike after check-in and until check-
child’s backpack is a good idea. out at the end of the day. Camp Fire will NOT call
parents if campers signing themselves in are not
• An extra change of clothes (especially socks) in attendance at camp.
should be brought to camp each day, as our ad-
ventures can get messy! Inclement Weather
Camp Si-La-Meo is an outdoor day camping pro-
• Sun screen, insect repellent and a water bottle gram, with limited access to indoor space. In the
should be included. event of rain, activities will continue as is safe
to do so. Please send your child to camp with
• Campers will need to bring a swimsuit and
rain jacket, pants and boots if the forecast calls
towel each day (designated days for Caterpillars)
for rain. In the event of extreme wind, smoke or
for swimming. We recommend a separate mesh
other event that could potentially make remain-
bag to store wet suits.
ing at the camp site unsafe, you will be called
• Campers enrolled for the horseback trail ride to pick your child up from camp at your earli-
will need to wear long pants and sturdy, closed- est availability. In the event that camp must be
toed shoes, the day of their ride (Mondays). evacuated, you will be called and notified of an
alternative pick-up location.
• For boating, your camper may get wet. Water
13Camp Si-La-Meo
Parent Handbook
Please note that any drop-offs made after 9 am, or pickups before 4 pm, will need to be made with
Camp Leadership in the office in the Moseley Sports Center. Please avoid drop-offs after
9:00 am and pick-ups before 4:00 pm if at all possible, as it requires us to disrupt
activities already underway, as staff must accompany individual children to and
from their assigned groups.
Daily Schedule
7:30 am Camp Opens
7:30-9:00 am Camper Choice Time
9:00 am Camp Sign-in Closes
9:30-3:45 am Camp Activities
Lunch 1
11:20-12:05 pm
12:15-1:00 pm Lunch 2
Afternoon Circle
3:45 pm
4:00 pm Camp Sign-out Opens
4:00-5:30 pm Camper Choice Time
5:30 pm Camp Closes
At Check-out please:
• Be prepared to show ID
• Check Lost & Found for missing belongings
• Stop at the Art Gallery and take home completed projects
• Take a moment to read any notes about your camper provided by camp staff on the “Today at Camp Si-La-
Meo” form
14Camp Si-La-Meo
Parent Handbook
Activity Descriptions: basic shooting skills and safety procedures
through archery, they may progress to shooting
Swimming: air rifles. Similar to archery, a specialist facilitates
Trail Starter, Trail Seeker, and Outdoor Adven- riflery activities at the camp’s shooting range.
ture campers participate in daily swim lessons Special riflery targets are set up to challenge
in the swimming pool at APU’s Moseley Sports campers. Shooting etiquette and safety is always
Center. Caterpillar campers have swim lessons the focus of this fun activity. Campers must be 9
twice per week. The swimming pool has a maxi- years old to participate.
mum depth of 4 feet and personal flotation de-
vices are available for campers who need them. Rock Wall Climbing
Swim lessons are planned by a certified instruc- Outdoor Adventure and Trail Seeker campers
tor and camp counselors are trained to support are led by a belay-certified climbing specialist
campers. Certified lifeguards ensure that camp- in learning the basics of climbing, repelling, and
ers are safe at all times. bouldering. These campers will get to challenge
themselves at APU’s indoor rock wall. All equip-
Hiking ment is inspected regularly and campers learn
Campers will be using the trails throughout about appropriate gear, including helmets, climb-
APU’s campus to get to and from various camp ing shoes, harnesses, and ropes. Counselors
activities. Additionally, the Nature and Outdoor are always on hand to support campers and are
Living Skills Specialist leads campers in nature belay certified to ensure all campers have a fun
activities and hikes focused on Leave No Trace and safe climbing experience.
principles. Outdoor Adventure campers will go on
field trips once a week that include more chal- Outdoor Living Skills
lenging and longer hikes. Most of the day at camp is spent outside, and
campers have the unique opportunity to fos-
Boating ter competence, stewardship, and joy with the
Campers participate in recreational boating in natural world. Counselors and specialists lead
canoes and kayaks on University Lake. They re- campers in skill building including building fires,
ceive orientation in safety and paddling and are outdoor cooking, shelter making, wildlife safety,
guided by certified lifeguards. geocaching, and Leave No Trace Principles.
Archery Field Games
Campers participate in archery instruction by a Groups of campers come together daily to par-
experienced specialist at the camp’s shooting ticipate in active outdoor games. Games might
range. Campers learn about the bow and arrow, include traditional team sports (such as Soc-
safety procedures, and shooting techniques. cer and Kickball), large group games (such as
Targets in the range provide campers with great Capture the Flag and Ships & Sailors), and lawn
opportunities for skill progression and encourage games (such as Ladder Ball and Kubb).
them to participate in fun archery challenges.
Teambuilding
Riflery With the goal of guiding campers towards har-
Once campers have had the opportunity to learn monious daily interactions, activities are struc- 15Camp Si-La-Meo
Parent Handbook
tured to help campers learn how to work together
towards a common goal. Teambuilding activities
encourage leadership and communication skills Please review these
and challenge campers to step out of their com- field trip behavior
fort zone and rely on each other. expectations with
your child:
Trail Rides
Campers have the opportunity to add a trail ride • Remain seated at all times with hands,
experience on to their camp adventure for an arms and legs inside the vehicle.
additional fee. Campers will be transported to • Keep noise at a minimum so as not to
an off-camp location where experienced riding distract the driver—use indoor voices.
instructors will lead them on a trail ride. Campers • No airborne objects or other disruptive
will learn how to guide and direct the horse and behavior.
other horsemanship skills. Trail rides are avail- • Passengers should enter and leave
able for Si-La-Meo campers 8 years and older. the vehicle under the direction of a staff
member.
Creative Arts • If the vehicle makes an emergency
Throughout camp’s daily activities campers will stop, passengers should follow direc-
participate in a range of creative arts such as tions of staff member and use the buddy
drama (skits and plays), songs, dance, and arts system if leaving the vehicle.
and crafts activities. These activities help camp- • Children must wear seatbelts at all
ers to express their creativity and add more fun times (if vehicle is equipped).
to their day.
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