PARENTS HANDBOOK 2019 - Camp MasterChef
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PARENTS HANDBOOK 2019
WELCOME LETTER TO CAMP MASTERCHEF Dear Family, Welcome to Camp MasterChef! We are excited for your child to join us this summer and we hope they will enjoy this culinary experience as much as we have had in preparing it. Enclosed you will find important information that will help you and your child best prepare for the summer. We hope this material will aid you in your planning and that it will orient you and your child to camp. We encourage you to read over our Parent Handbook and keep a copy on hand throughout the summer. We believe that outstanding summer camp experiences are rarely created by coincidence. They take careful thought, a great deal of planning and the right staff to make it happen. Our goal for your child is to provide an immersive, engaging culinary experience that is fun, innovative and creative. We promote healthy lifestyles and character building through a shared passion for cooking. To achieve this, we have a highly committed team of enthusiastic professionals with an approach of continuous improvement. To make this summer the best possible, we need the support of our camp parents with our camp policies. We believe that parents play an integral role in the success of their child’s camp experience. We are partners in this culinary venture and are available to speak with you at any time. Please don’t hesitate to call us with any questions or concerns regarding your child’s stay. We look forward to a wonderful time with you and your camper and we are thrilled to welcome you into Camp MasterChef! Sandro Lucarini CEO
INDEX Required Forms 5 Rules & Procedures 7 General Camp Information 9 Health Care And Medical Information 11 Relevant Family Issues 15 Missing Home 16 A Typical Day 17 Check-In And Check-Out 18 Participation Of Camp Masterchef Contestants From The Masterchef TV Shows At Camp Masterchef 19 Clothing And Equipment 19 Transportation 20 Staying Connected 23 Phone Calls And Contact Us 24 Camp Locations & Directions 24 Camp Masterchef Office: We Are Here To Help You! 25
TO DO
Please read this entire manual. It will answer many of your questions about camp.
Please complete all forms available on our online system. ALL forms must be uploaded by May 1, 2019.
Please pay any outstanding fees & tuition by May 1, 2019.
Make a doctor’s appointment for your camper. Upload completed and signed Physician’s Examination and
Immunization Form and the Authorization for the Administration of Medication for prescription and non-
prescription items that are not “as needed”.
Finalize your travel plans and let us know on the online Travel Form. Please notice that transportation to and
from camp is only available for two-week campers.
Download and check the packing list on the website.
REMEMBER!
All forms need to be completed and uploaded in our system by May 1, 2019
4 www.campmasterchef.com
REQUIRED FORMS
It is very important to take the time to complete all camper forms honestly and with as much detail as possible.
Some parents may be reluctant to share certain information because of a concern about confidentiality or
stigmatizing their child. We can assure you that sharing such information with us will not create any sort of bias,
rather it will better ensure our ability to support your child to be successful while at camp. When you entrust your
child to our care, we become partners in your child’s well-being. We can only keep our end of the partnership if we
have the information to prepare our medical staff and counselors to ensure your child is well cared for and free to
enjoy their best summer. This includes information like bed wetting, ADD, ADHD or an IEP from school.
There have been times when, because we didn’t know about a particular child’s needs, we could not respond to
behavior properly and the child was not able to remain at camp. The better prepared we are before camp, the better
we can help your child be successful once they are with us. Our promise is to only share your child’s information
with staff who will have direct contact with your child.
Please note:
The following is a list of required forms that can be found on CampInTouch and must be completed by
May 1, 2019. To access the Forms Dashboard on your CampInTouch page, visit our website,
www.campmasterchef.com and login at the top of the homepage.
No child will be allowed into camp without these completed forms.
Login
TRANSPORTATION FORM
This form is only required for two-week campers and are only for campers who are flying alone or want to meet us
at the designated airports. Please complete the following form for us to guarantee your child a space on the bus
to/from our camps. We have designated airports and times for our buses. If you are driving to meet the bus at the
airport, you must stay with your camper until you directly hand them off to a staff member.
PICK UP AUTHORIZATION
If someone other than the legal parent or guardian is going to pick up the camper at the end of the week, this form
must be filled out and uploaded to CampMinder.
www.campmasterchef.com 5
CODE OF CONDUCT At Camp MasterChef, we strive to provide a fun, safe, and secure environment for all campers. To ensure that our camp is always operating at the highest quality and that campers are being cared for in a positive environment, the Camp MasterChef Code of Conduct will be enforced. We also think it is important for you to read and sign it together with your child, to ensure they understand the plan and they will be committed to the Code of Conduct expected at Camp MasterChef. MEDICAL FORMS Please understand that we cannot allow your child to camp unless we have all medical forms completed and uploaded on our system. HEALTH HISTORY FORM The Health History Form, which can be completed and submitted online, provides our staff with an overall understanding of your child’s health care needs. This form has questions related to allergies, social and emotional health, dietary restrictions and medications taken. We ask that you fill this form out carefully as it will help us care for your child accordingly. You also give permission to Camp MasterChef to provide, seek, and consent to routine health care, administration of prescribed medications, over the counter medications, and emergency treatment for your child, as may be necessary including, but not limited to x-rays, routine tests and treatment, and/or hospitalization. MENTAL HEATH FORM If on the Health History Form you indicate that your camper has been treated for a psychiatric, psychological or emotional situation, a Mental Health Form will be required to be filled out. This document will allow you to be more specific about your camper’s needs and helps us ensure a successful time at camp. PHYSICIAN’S EXAMINATION AND IMMUNIZATION The Physician’s Examination & Immunization Form allows our medical staff to care for your child to the best of their ability. Each camper is required to have a complete physical examination performed by a licensed physician within 12 months prior to the start of the camp season. This form must be fully completed and signed by a physician on both the Physicians Exam and the Immunization Form, for any child to attend camp. The Physician’s Examination & Immunization Form is a paper form which must be downloaded, printed and brought to a licensed physician. Please, upload the form after it has been completed. This form is child-specific with a bar code to ensure that it is automatically added to your child’s electronic record. INSURANCE CARD (FRONT AND BACK) Please upload a copy of both sides of your insurance and prescription card, as these are both required. AUTHORIZATION FOR THE ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION If your camper will need prescribed, or over the counter medication not for as needed basis, a signed Authorization for the Administration of Medication Form must be signed by the doctor and uploaded to CampMinder. 6 www.campmasterchef.com
RULES & PROCEDURES
GENERAL SAFETY RULES
Your child’s safety throughout the summer is of great importance to us. Our specialty staff and general counselors
are trained to promote a healthy and safe camp environment. We ask that you review and reinforce the following
rules with your child before camp begins.
Campers are not permitted to swim in any body of water unless it is a scheduled activity and a lifeguard is present.
We have several lifeguards at camp that are responsible for your child’s safety, for ALL aquatic activities. Campers
should follow instructions and make sure a lifeguard is on duty before entering the water.
We also ask that campers do not use culinary equipment without permission. If the culinary equipment is used
incorrectly it can be a risk to your child’s safety. Therefore, campers should ask the culinary instructors for
assistance regarding use.
NO SCREEN POLICY
We are so excited to meet you and have you become part of our camp community. In order to achieve this goal, we
need your help to keep Camp MasterChef “SCREEN FREE”.
With technology seemingly advancing every day, we can all have some trouble keeping up with it and camps are no
different. Once we finally figure out how to work with something a newer, smaller and faster version of it comes out
and we have to start all over. At Camp MasterChef, we’d prefer our campers and staff not be on WiFi and we know
when we achieve this goal, they’ll never find a better connection.
Please do not bring cell phones to camp. Laptop computers, E-readers, iPads, Tablets, Portable DVD Players, etc.,
are also unnecessary. We urge our families to please not place the camp in the position of having to collect any of
these devices. It’s not how we prefer to spend time with our campers.
We have had parents tell us how pleased they are with this policy and even some of our campers have thanked
us for relieving them from the stress they experience while constantly trying to keep up with outside distractions.
Please make sure before you zip up the luggage, that there is nothing in the bag we do not permit at camp.
We would venture to guess that none of our campers that are looking forward to joining us this summer, are saying
how much they can’t wait to get to camp and use their electronic devices. Instead, we know they cannot wait to
make new friends and take part in our exciting program.
You’re counting on us to care for your camper, keep them safe and ensure the fun never ends. We’ll hold up our end,
but need your assistance in keeping the outside world just where it is, outside of camp and making sure Camp
MasterChef is “SCREEN FREE”.
www.campmasterchef.com 7Exceptions to this are those campers traveling by plane to get to camp. We understand the need for cellphones in these instances. Upon arriving at camp, we will collect these phones and provide them back at check-out. Campers staying with us for two weeks will be able to call home on the Sunday of their second session and will use our camp phones. We will notify these parents as to the specific times calls will be made. CAMPER BEHAVIOR Camp MasterChef prides itself on being a welcoming and friendly community. For our community to thrive, we expect our campers to display positive behavior while at camp. Campers are not permitted to be out of their rooms after curfew. At camp, there is a NO smoking, drinking or use of illegal drugs policy. If this policy is broken, your camper will be sent home. Additionally, fireworks, knives, guns or weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited at camp. Campers are encouraged to practice social skills that will allow them to peacefully resolve conflicts without the use of harmful or destructive behaviors. The number one rule we live by is that no camper or staff is allowed to make any other camper or staff feel uncomfortable or unsafe at any time. When disciplinary situations occur that require intervention, camp staff provide campers with clear explanations as to why specific behavior is inappropriate. They then help the child find alternative ways to act in a situation that fits within the camp guidelines of appropriate behaviors. Every night before going to bed we have implemented “candle-time”, to reflect with others about daily situations where the counselor promotes conflict resolution and teamwork. In addition, we reward positive behaviors with extra points that are added to those achieved in cooking competitions. BULLYNG AND HARASSMENT At camp, campers practice their social skills that will allow them to peacefully resolve conflicts without the use of harmful or destructive behaviors. Children argue, tease, and do hurtful things to one another from time to time. Most feel empathy, guilt, remorse, compassion and then make up and move on. But sometimes, a bully situation appears, and one camper is hurt. Bullying behavior includes rejection, name-calling, spreading rumors, threats, intimidation, and physical torment. Our staff members participate in an intensive anti-bullying training session during their orientation week. As part of this training, the staff learn: · To recognize different styles of bullying (direct, indirect, physical, verbal, social aggression, etc.) · To recognize warning signs of bullying · How to intervene quickly and effectively to keep all campers safe · How to create an atmosphere of mutual support against bullying beginning with the first day of camp Every night before going to bed we have implemented the “candle-time”, a time to reflect with others about daily situations where the counselor promotes conflict resolution and teamwork. However, even we train counselors to observe their camper’s behavior and identify unappropriated behaviors, sometimes bully situation can’t be identified. Please encourage your child to speak with an adult if they are being bullied or experiencing any other problems at camp. As soon as we identify a bully situation, it will be addressed immediately by staff and, if not rectified, can result in the dismissal of the camper.
SWEETS AND SNACKS
During the camp, children eat breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner. Besides the regular meals, they taste everything
they cook. As there will be plenty of food provided throughout the day, we ask campers not to bring candy and other
snacks to eat. This food is a source of attraction for ants and other animals.
GENERAL CAMP INFORMATION
BIRTHDAYS
If your child’s birthday occurs during camp, you can be sure we will recognize their special day! All of camp will
participate, and your child will receive a special birthday gift. We understand that this is a special day for your child
and, therefore, if requested we will allow your child to call you.
COMING & GOING
We do not allow campers to come and go from camp on dates other than the designated start and end dates of
sessions. We do, however, understand that camp occasionally overlaps with important family functions that can’t
be missed.
Please keep the following in mind:
· Consider the importance of your child’s participation in the camp program before making plans to remove them.
· Contact our office in writing well before the summer to arrange the dates and times of pick up/arrival.
· Camp is not responsible for providing or arranging any transportation to or from camp for these unofficial
departures.
· Camp MasterChef is a residential camp, as such there will not be an option for campers to participate in the
program as a “day camper”.
TIPPING
The American Camping Association policy and our philosophy does not allow our staff to accept tips. Our staff
members are kind young people selected for their skills and integrity. They have been instructed, and have agreed,
not to accept any gifts or monies from parents in accordance with ACA guidelines and professional ethics. If you
would like to show your gratitude toward your child’s counselor, a nice note would be appreciated.
LOST & FOUND
Camp MasterChef cannot accept responsibility for lost or damaged items. We ask that you do not send clothing or
items of value with your camper and that you label everything. Please explain the importance of keeping track of
one’s belongings to your camper. Our Lost & Found is available to campers throughout each session. If it does not
have a full name on it, we are unable to return it. All unclaimed lost & found will be donated to a local charity at the
end of the camp season at each location.
MONEY
Camp MasterChef covers all expenses once the camper gets to camp. If your child is flying, we suggest sending
them with $25 each way, which will be put in our Camp Office upon arrival at camp. If money is not provided any
purchases will be billed to the credit card on file.
Camp is not responsible for any belongings not secured in our Camp Office.
PROPERTY DAMAGE
Parents are liable for any and all damage done to the camp’s property by their child(ren) and will be billed for
material and labor costs from damages incurred. If such an incident occurs, the minimum charge will be $100
for any type of intentional damage including, but not limited to, graffiti. Please talk to your children about the
destructiveness of graffiti and let them know the consequences if guidelines are not followed.
www.campmasterchef.com 9VISITING CAMP We do not have visitor days during our camps. During camp, we have a lot to cover, and our time together is relatively short. We keep campers focused and engaged with consistent, structured activities. If you drop your child off in person, you’ll meet the counselors and tour the facility. Everyone is invited to our Closing Ceremony, where you’ll taste appetizers that the campers have prepared for you. We highly encourage parents to attend the Closing Ceremony. PARENT ITINERARIES If you are going on a trip, please send your itinerary to the Camp MasterChef Office by May 1st so we may reach you in case of an emergency. If you would be unable to pick your camper up due to an emergency or disciplinary situation, please designate someone that could. COMUNICACI ONES URGENTES En caso de urgencia, podéis contactar las 24 horas del día con los teléfonos móviles de contacto de cada campamento así como con el teléfono de la oficina MasterChef en los horarios de oficina definidos en nuestra web: 972 658 310. 10 www.campmasterchef.com
HEALTH CARE AND MEDICAL INFORMATION
Occasionally, campers become ill or injured at camp. When health care needs occur, our professionally staffed
Health Center is generally able to meet most needs of our campers and staff. Emergency and hospital facilities are
available within 15-30 minutes from all camp locations.
CAMP HEALTH CENTER
The health and safety of your child are of primary importance to us. Our Health Center is staffed with nurses who
are available 24 hours a day. We also work closely with a local pediatric practice. The physicians and nurses are
directly responsible for the medical care of your child.
The Health Center is designed to provide care for campers who require isolation, respite from camp routine or for
those that require more frequent observation that can reasonably be provided by the counselor staff. As a general
rule, anyone with a temperature over 100.4 Fahrenheit should remain in the Health Center until they are able to
maintain a normal temperature for 24 hours without medication and communicable disease can be reasonably
ruled out.
You will be contacted by the medical staff regarding your child’s health if:
· The camper is confined to the Health Center overnight
· The camper is a “frequent visitor” to the Health Center (more than 2 visits about the same issue)
· The camper requires appointments with services or physicians outside camp
· The camper requires a new prescription
· The camper requires transportation off site for emergency treatment and/or medical evaluation due to injury
Our nurses do not call for routine visits that children may make to the Health Center. Examples of such visits may
include a headache, stomachache, a minor burns and cuts or bug bites.
MEDICATIONS
All medications (prescription and non-prescription) must be kept in the Health Center according to state law
except inhalers and EpiPens. Medications will be prepared for administration at meals by our nursing staff.
Daily medications will be distributed at mealtimes. Medication should be timed at mealtimes with the exception
of growth hormone injections, sleeping meds, and Enuresis meds. Meds ordered twice a day will be given at
breakfast and dinner in the dining hall. If allergy/asthma medications are sent to camp and marked for bedtime
administration, they may be administered at dinner under the discretion of the nurse and camp director per our
camp policy.
“As Needed” medication is medicine that your child only needs to take occasionally (1-2 times per week). We ask
that you do not send over the counter as needed medications for your child, unless you anticipate that they may
need to take them often or possibly daily. We will provide them to campers on an as needed basis. If there is
something you wish us not to administer to your child, please indicate this on your medical form.
INHALERS/EPIPENS
Inhalers and EpiPens are required to be carried by the camper at all times with a back up to be kept in the Health
Center. Any inhaler or EpiPen brought to camp should be indicated and explained on the medical forms so that the
medical staff is aware that the campers are in possession of these items.
OVER THE COUNTER MEDS
The Health Center stocks basic over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol in many forms; Ibuprofen, Benadryl,
Bismuth Subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol products), Calamine Lotion, Chlorpheniramine Maleate (Robitussin Cough &
Allergy Syrup and many more. Please do not send acetaminophen and ibuprofen to camp unless your child takes
them daily as these are stocked in the Health Center.
www.campmasterchef.com 11SCHEDULED OR PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS If your daughter/son requires medication to be taken at camp you must fill in the Authorization for the Administration of Medication signed by a Physician, with the name of the medication, dosage and time to be given. This includes prescription medication, over the counter medication, and vitamins. Inhalers and Epipens should be treated like meds – they should be listed on the form, along with an indication of whether it is necessary for the camper to carry the inhaler at all times. Please note: · You will need a prescription from a doctor for all medications, including over the counter medications. This can be the original prescription form, or our Authorization for the Administration of Medication Form signed by a doctor. · By law all medications, (prescription and non-prescription) must be brought to camp in their original pharmacy labeled container. Do not pre-dispense, place in a daily pill holder, wrap in other materials, or ask us to dispense by other than doctor’s orders · Medicine times are directly after breakfast, lunch and before dinner and at bedtime, unless otherwise directed. · At least one dose of a prescription medicine MUST be given to camper at home before bringing to camp. No trials or sample medications will be accepted. · A list of medications commonly stocked in the camp Health Center is provided on the Camp Health Form. These are the only non-prescription medications the camper can have with prior written consent by a health care provider. · If a new medication is prescribed for a camper while at camp, parents will be notified by phone. All medication in the original packaging should then be packaged in a Ziploc bag labeled with your child’s name. Do not pack medications in your camper’s luggage! All medications must be turned in to the nurse during check-in at camp and they will be kept in the Health Center at camp (Emergency medications will be kept with the camper). All medications not used will be returned to campers the last day of camp. NON-SCHEDULED, NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS The Health Center has a supply of over the counter medications for distribution by the nurses according to standing orders authorized by a licensed physician. The parent’s signature on the Health History Form authorizes routine medical care by the nurses. Routine care may include distribution over the counter medications. Parents who request phone contact prior to the administration of over-the-counter medications must indicate this on the Health History Form. MEDICAL INSURANCE AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICINE CHARGES Medical care provided by any of the camp nurses is included in the tuition. If it’s necessary for the well-being of our camper to use outside medical care, the camper’s family will be responsible for all expenses involved. The medical provider will bill your insurance company directly and will mail you an invoice for any expenses that are not covered by your insurance. Please be sure to pay all bills promptly so that our relationship with the medical center is not jeopardized. Should it be necessary to obtain a prescription for your child, the local pharmacy will file claims for prescriptions with your insurance company, and we will charge the co-pay on your credit card on file. Again, the receipt will be emailed to you. Also note, that should a medical provider require payment, your credit card on file will be charged and a receipt will be emailed. We also charge for Nebulizer treatments (if camp provides the albuterol) and Epi- pens (if provided by Camp MasterChef). Insurance information must be uploaded through your CampinTouch account and a copy of both sides of your insurance and prescription card must be included. 12 www.campmasterchef.com
MEDICATION HOLIDAY
Children may take certain medications during the year, which some physicians or psychiatrists may like to stop
for a short period of time each year. The summer is a frequently chosen time, because the child is not in school,
and it is generally deemed that focus during this time is not as paramount. Please be aware that camp requires a
high degree of attention, concentration and stability. We therefore, do not recommend any change in your child’s
medication while they attend Camp MasterChef. If your child takes any medications during the year that he/she
will not be taking during the summer, it is important that we know about such a “medication holiday.” We welcome
discussions about individual situations to make reasonable accommodations for your child.
GUIDELINES FOR MANAGING SEVERE FOOD ALLERGIES
Food allergies can be life threatening. Specifically, in a camp setting, there is risk of accidental exposure to a food
allergen. Our counselors, culinary instructors, medical staff, parents, and campers must work together to minimize
this risk.
Family’s Responsibilities
· Notify us of your child’s allergies or suspected allergies in advance
- Use our Health History Form in CampInTouch to fully describe the allergy and reaction if exposure occurs
· Educate and review with your child the self-management of his/her food allergy
- Safe and unsafe foods
- Strategies for avoiding exposure to unsafe foods
· How and when to ask adults whether certain foods are safe
· Symptoms of allergic reaction
· How and when to tell an adult about a possible allergic response
· How to use epinephrine
Camper’s Responsibilities
· Never trade food with other campers or staff
· Never eat anything with unknown ingredients
· Always ask an adult to check ingredients if they are unsure of the safety of a certain food
· Be proactive in the management of mild reactions, such as seeking help if a reaction is suspected
· Tell an adult if a reaction seems to be starting, even if there is no visible appearance of allergic response
Camp MasterChef’s Responsibilities
· Be informed of the availability of emergency care
- Know how to contact EMT/ambulance
· Review the health records submitted by parent and physicians
· Establish prevention protocols for camp
- Make plans so that the camper with food allergies may be safely included in all activities
- Be certain that all food service or kitchen personnel are aware of and can identify each camper with food
allergies
- Discuss meal plans with parents/campers and alternative plans if necessary
- Plan how campers with food allergies will participate in meals (i.e., a camper with food allergies might go to
the kitchen window to pick up a specially wrapped meal which includes only foods which are safe for him/her
or create a specific distribution table for campers to pick up their meals should any dietary needs exist)
· Ensure all staff members who will be in contact with the camper know of the allergy, can recognize the symptoms
of an allergic reaction, and know what action to take if the reaction occurs
www.campmasterchef.com 13· Ensure that appropriate personnel are familiar with the use of epinephrine, where medication is located, and the
protocol
- Arrange a training session before the start of camp. Train staff on the usage of epinephrine auto-injectors
- Follow local and state regulations regarding the administration of medication
· If there are planned field trips or out of camp activities
- Be certain any emergency medication and authorization accompany the camper and counselors
- Be certain there is a way to contact emergency assistance
· Camp MasterChef is a nut free facility
POLICY STATEMENT ON VACCINATIONS
Health and safety are of the highest priorities in our camp community. Decreasing vulnerability to vaccine
preventable illnesses is one fundamental strategy we employ to help sustain the health of our camp community. We
want to ensure that everyone attending camp this summer meets the most recent vaccination recommendations
set by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Routine vaccination
of all campers is a vital public health issue in the residential environment of summer camp with round-the-clock
communal living. Please check your child’s medical and vaccination records or consult your child’s physician to
ensure all their required immunizations are up to date.
Policy Statement:
All campers are required to have age-appropriate vaccines recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics
(AAP). The current vaccine schedule can be viewed at:
https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/who/teens/downloads/parent-version-schedule-7-18yrs.pdf
COMMUNICABLE DISEASES & HEAD LICE
As part of our check-in process, all staff and campers will receive a health check. Included in this will be a head
check for lice.
Head lice infestation is a serious health issue, especially in a close communal environment such as camp. No child
who has been exposed to communicable diseases may attend camp before the period of incubation has elapsed.
Please examine your child before their departure for camp, and please do not send a child who has an infestation
to camp.
Please notify the nurse if you have provided a lice treatment within the past month prior to camp. This information
will be kept confidential and allows us to discretely recheck your child during their stay. If a child is found to be
harboring active lice or nits, the infected child will be isolated from further contact with other campers or staff
immediately. Alternatives include treatment and isolation until the infestation is cleared, or removal from camp.
Please note, you will be charged $100 if your child comes to camp with nits or head lice.
BEDWETTING
Campers are urged to use the restroom before bedtime. Campers with potential bedwetting problems can be
awakened during the night, if necessary; Please indicate this on the Health History Form on your CampInTouch
account. Counselors will perform ‘wet bed checks’ for the first few mornings and handle any issues tactfully.
Please encourage your child to tell their counselor if they have wet their bed. Soiled items will be laundered and
discretely returned to your camper.
If you anticipate bed wetting will be a problem, please consider talking with your pediatrician about medication to
help with this while at camp.
14 www.campmasterchef.com 14MOSQUITO BITES AND SUNBURN
We cannot guarantee that your child will not be bitten by mosquitoes and we work diligently with our campers
to have them apply sunscreen to prevent getting sunburned while at Camp MasterChef. We recommend that you
send both bug repellent containing an appropriate percentage of DEET (we recommend at least 25% DEET), and
sunscreen of an appropriate SPF (we recommend at least SPF 30), for your child. Please note on your camper’s
Health History Form in the section on reoccurring issues if your child has a history of sunburns or sever reactions
to mosquito bites.
Counselors will encourage their campers to apply sunscreen prior to exposure to the sun and to re-apply sunscreen
throughout the day, and to apply bug repellent and put on long pants and shirts prior to outdoor evening programs
or hiking in our woods. We keep an additional supply of sunscreen and bug spray with DEET in our health clinic so
that it is available for use at any time. Above all, counselors are trained and encouraged to watch out for campers
who show signs of skin irritation, and to accompany campers to the Health Center if they show signs of illness.
HEALTH CARE ON FIELD TRIPS
When on Field Trips, campers are in the care of staff members who have CPR/First Aid certification. If serious
injury or illness occurs in the field, the staff member will assess the situation and formulate an effective plan. All
trips carry emergency contact phone numbers and will contact the proper authorities in the event of an emergency.
They will then contact the Camp Director and/or nurse on duty who will contact the family.
RELEVANT FAMILY ISSUES
Communication of confidential family matters to Camp MasterChef professional staff is imperative to ensure
your child’s mental/physical health and safety. The following circumstances, regarding any camper, must be
communicated on the Health History Form:
· Treatment for any psychiatric, psychological, or on-going medical situation.
· Suspension of any medications for the summer.
· Hospitalization for any physical or emotional reason within the immediate 12 months prior to attending camp.
· Experience of any traumatic incident, such as parental separation, divorce, or death.
· Severe allergies.
We want to assure you that it greatly helps our staff be able to help your children when we know about sensitive
matters affecting their lives. However, please know that this information will be kept confidential and only
appropriate staff will be informed.
Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about this communication or any other matter. We look
forward to having your child with us at camp this summer.
Remember:
The safety and well-being of your children – our campers – is our top priority!
www.campmasterchef.com 15MISSING HOME Camp is a growth experience opportunity for our children. It’s a place where kids have fun, but also develop a sense of independence and self-confidence. Missing home is a normal and healthy part of this process- even if it’s not a camper’s first experience away from home. The first few days of camp is an adjustment for most campers. For some, it is their first time away from home, their first time living with a group of people, or maybe their first time performing an activity. With so many “firsts” taking placing, it is normal for campers to experience some anxiety and have the situation at home come to mind. We provide a safe, caring, and supportive environment to help each child process these feelings. Our staff spends an exceptional amount of time during orientation on how to work with specific situations, including missing home. We handle with these situations by: 1 Teaching our staff to find out which activities the child enjoys best and encourage that child to participate in all activities. 2 Training our staff to actively listen. This cannot be stressed enough. This enables us to understand and if necessary, help work through issues a camper may be experiencing. It also shows the child that there is someone who cares. 3 Spending time each day with our staff discussing situations, so that we are aware of all issues and can help a child overcome them. 4 Consulting parents— you know your child better than anyone. The Camp Director will be in touch with you if there is a concern that we need help with. Missing home, if it does occur, is most common during “down-time” at camp such as rest hour or before bedtime. Most campers who experience this are fine during the day and are truly enjoying their activities, new friends, and overall camp experience. We help campers realize they can still have fun at camp even though they miss home. Campers learn to cope with their feelings in a healthy way while they’re at camp. Not all campers cope with missing home in the same way. It is our job as professionals to help find a coping strategy that works best for your child. Please let them know this is normal and okay to think of home. Your child is supposed to think about you and your family. We have helped hundreds of campers understand they can miss you and still have a summer filled with growth, fun and friendships. If your child is missing home on a regular basis (more than one or two nights) we will notify you. We want you to know we are aware of the situation and are working with your child. If you receive a letter regarding this situation from your camper and you have concerns, please feel free to call the office and talk with our directors.
A TYPICAL DAY
A typical day at camp looks like this (times are approximate):
7:30 AM Rise & Shine! Get ready, brush your teeth… let’s head to the Dining Hall!
Breakfast starts at 8 o’clock sharp! Dig in and get prepare for the day! Time to
08:00 - 09:00 AM
dedicate to minor organization tasks, such as cabin clean up!
09:00 - 11:00 AM Cooking Lessons (Group #1) / Outdoor-Sport activities (Group #2)
11:00 - 12:00 PM Team Culinary Competitions (Group #1) /Swimming pool (Group #2)
12:15 - 01:30 PM Lunch and supervised free time/rest time.
01:30 - 03:30 PM Cooking Lessons (Group #2) / Outdoor-Sport activities (Group #1)
03:30 - 04:00 PM Afternoon snack
04:00 - 05:00 PM Team Culinary Competitions (Group #2) /Swimming pool (Group #1)
05:00 - 06:00 PM Shower & get ready. It’s time to get into some comfy dry clothes for the evening program
06:00-07:00 PM Dinner. Last meal of the day!
07:00 - 09:00 PM Theme Party This mean all camp games, carnival, or a talent show.
“Candle-Time” We all come together and get organized by groups to share the best
09:00 - 9:30 PM
experience of the day and any areas of improvement
9:30 PM Lights out ages 8-12
10:00 PM Lights out ages 13 and above
10:30 PM Everyone’s snoozing!
*Group 1 and 2 will alternate morning and afternoon activities each day.
www.campmasterchef.com 17CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT
We strongly recommend parents drop off and pick up campers from Camp MasterChef. If you do so, you will be able
to get an insight into the exciting events that lie ahead for your camper(s) and on the last day, a special Closing
Ceremony is planned for the parents for those able to attend.
CHECK-IN
The check-in is on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Upon arrival, we’ll indicate where to leave luggage and then you will
be able to meet their residential counselor. You will have the chance to provide them with any missing information.
After that, you will be able to visit the kitchens, our highlighted cooking event and take photos with MasterChef
contestants. We recommend that you do not stay too long, as a fairly quick departure will help ease the separation.
Please do not plan to arrive earlier
The camp will not open the doors before the indicated time. Consider this to avoid unnecessary waiting. If you
drop your child off in person, you’ll meet the counsellors and tour the facility. If you are arriving later, please
contact us at +1 754-301-8885 or send an email to info@campmasterchef.com
CHECK-OUT
The check-out is on Saturday from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Everyone is invited to our Closing Ceremony, where
you’ll taste appetizers that the campers have prepared for you. We highly encourage parents to attend the Closing
Ceremony.
Parents arrive. You won’t be able to see you child because she/he will be plating the
appetizers and preparing for the Closing Ceremony. You can pick up luggage in the
10 AM to 10:45 AM
meantime and load it into your car. You can also pick up your child’s cell phone and
other electronics, Meds, a diploma and a group photo as well as watch the camp video.
10:45 AM to 11 AM Don’t miss the Closing Ceremony. Get a good seat!
11 AM to 11:30 AM Closing and Award Ceremony
Enjoy the appetizers that campers have prepared for you, meet the team and pick
11:30 AM to 12:30 PM up luggage or medication (if you haven’t done so already). Chat with the culinary
instructors and counselors to get insights on your child’s new cooking techniques.
12:30 PM Departure. Travel safely. Until next year!
18 www.campmasterchef.comPARTICIPATION OF CAMP MASTERCHEF
CONTESTANTS FROM THE MASTERCHEF TV
SHOWS AT CAMP MASTERCHEF
MasterChef and MasterChef Junior contestants will visit camp and spend the day with the campers. They
participate in culinary classes, cooking challenges, teach tips and tricks and give campers hands-on advice. You’ll
hear funny stories and discover behind-the-scene secrets of the show.
Which MasterChef contestants will visit camp will be a surprise for campers, so this will be disclosed upon arrival
at camp.
CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
Campers need comfortable clothes for cooking, sport clothes and shoes for outdoor activities, and warm clothes
for the evening. Despite being summer, nights can be cool. We recommend bringing some warm clothing and a
raincoat. One of the theme parties is a gala evening, so we recommend bringing something more elegant for that
special night.
We strongly recommend checking our suggested packing list.
CULINARY MATERIALS & EQUIPMENT
As for the culinary materials & equipment, we will supply everything needed, so campers should only bring two
aprons for the classes and a notebook and pen to take notes – although all recipes will be sent to the campers at
the end of camp.
We will provide your child with two Camp MasterChef aprons to be used in cooking competitions.
PACKING
It is helpful to pack with your child so that he or she will know and recognize what belongings they have brought
with them to camp. We recommend packing in 1 large duffel bag. Please make sure that all bags are clearly marked
with your child’s first and last name.
BEDDING
Please make sure to send with your camper the following: Fitted Bed Sheet, Flat Sheet, Comforter/Blanket/
Sleeping bag, Pillow with Pillow Case and two towels. If you forget any of the above items, a charge of up to $100
will be added to your account.
LAUNDRY
In our one week sessions, we do not provide laundry service, so we ask campers to bring enough clothes for the
duration of their stay.
For our two-week sessions, there will be laundry service. We recommend not packing any delicate clothing items,
since we are not responsible for the possible flaws that may arise during washing and drying. Please pack your
child with two laundry bags with his/her full name clearly written on the bag.
EYEGLASSES
If your child wears glasses, please send an extra pair to camp.
If your child wears contact lenses, please send extra contact lenses
and solution.
www.campmasterchef.com 19TRANSPORTATION
Let us know your travel plans as soon as possible by completing the online Transportation Form through
CampInTouch system. Just go to our website www.campmasterchef.com and click on Login at the top of the
homepage. Once submitted, this form can only be able to be updated by our Camp MasterChef Office.
Families have 2 options for getting their child(ren) to and from camp:
1. Driving your campers directly to Camp
2. Airport (For two-week campers only) pick-ups for our campers who are flying into either Atlanta, JFK, Chicago
O’Hare, George Bush airport in Houston and LAX in Los Angeles.
Please note:
All changes to transportation must be made no later than May 1st. Charges will apply to any bus
reservations that are cancelled after these dates.
1. DRIVING DIRECTLY TO/FROM CAMP MASTERCHEF
Please inform us if you wish to pick-up or drop-off your camper on your Transport Form in your CampInTouch
Account.
For directions to camp, please put the following address in your GPS:
• Kent School - 1 Macedonia Rd, Kent, CT 06757
• Rabun-Gap Nacoochee School - 339 Nacoochee Drive, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568
• The Village School - 2005 Gentryside Dr, Houston, TX 77077
• Lake Forest Academy - 1500 W Kennedy Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045
• Scripps College - 1030 Columbia Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711
FIRST DAY OF EACH SESSION: SUNDAY
The check-in is on Sunday from 2 pm to 4 pm. Please do not plan to arrive earlier. Upon arrival, we’ll indicate where
to leave luggage and then you will be able to meet their residential counselor. You will have the chance to provide
them with any missing information.
After that, you will be able to visit the kitchens, our highlighted cooking event and take photos with MasterChef
contestants. We recommend that you do not stay too long, as a fairly quick departure will help ease the separation.
LAST DAY OF EACH SESSION: SATURDAY
The check-out is on Saturday from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm. Everyone is invited to our Closing Ceremony, where you’ll
taste appetizers the campers have prepared for you. We highly encourage parents to attend the Closing Ceremony.
You may pick-up your child after the closing ceremony, between 11:30 am-12:30 pm on closing day. Late pickups
will incur a $100 fee each hour.
20 www.campmasterchef.com2. ARRIVALS/DEPARTURES BY PLANE
Camp MasterChef provides a comprehensive meet and greet service for campers arriving/departing by air to/from
these airports.
1. Kent, CT camp location: John F. Kennedy, Airport, NY
Opening Day: Flights should arrive at JFK Airport on Sundays between 11 am to 3 pm Eastern Time
The bus will depart from to JFK Airport at approximately 3:30 pm Eastern Time
Closing Day: Flights should depart from JFK Airport on Saturdays between 5 pm to 8 pm Eastern Time.
The bus will arrive to JFK Airport at approximately 3:00 pm Eastern Time
2. Rabun-Gap, GA camp location: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
Opening Day: Flights should arrive at ATL Airport on Sundays between 11 am to 3 pm Eastern Time.
The bus will depart from to ATL Airport at approximately 3:30 pm Eastern Time
Closing Day: Flights should depart from ATL Airport on Saturdays between 5 pm to 8 pm Eastern Time.
The bus will arrive to ATL Airport at approximately 3:00 pm Eastern Time.
3. Lake Forest Academy, IL camp location: O’Hare International Airport
Opening Day: Flights should arrive at ORD Airport on Sundays between 11 am to 3 pm Central Time.
The bus will depart from to ORD Airport at approximately 3:30 pm Central Time.
Closing Day: Flights should depart from ORD Airport on Saturdays between 4 pm to 7 pm Central Time.
The bus will arrive to ORD Airport at approximately 2:00 pm Central Time.
4. The Village School, TX camp location: George Bush Intercontinental Airport
Opening Day: Flights should arrive at IAH Airport on Sundays between 11 am to 3 pm Central Time.
The bus will depart from to IAH Airport at approximately 3:30 pm Central Time.
Closing Day: Flights should depart from IAH Airport on Saturdays between 4 pm to 7 pm Central Time.
The bus will arrive to IAH Airport at approximately 2:00 pm Central Time.
5. Scripps College, CA camp location: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
Opening Day: Flights should arrive at LAX Airport on Sundays between 11 am to 3 pm Pacific Time.
The bus will depart from to LAX Airport at approximately 3:30 pm Pacific Time.
Closing Day: Flights should depart from LAX Airport on Saturdays between 5 pm to 8 pm Pacific Time.
The bus will arrive to LAX Airport at approximately 3:00 pm Pacific Time.
Please note:
If you choose an arrival/departure time or an airport that is not listed below you will be charged an
additional fee of $300 for each.
All flights will be met by a Camp MasterChef team member. Greeters meeting flights will have Camp MasterChef
signs, and will be wearing CMC apparel. They will guide campers to a central meeting area where they will wait
with other staff for the bus to camp. Please ensure your camper’s luggage is on the same flight and is very clearly
labeled to make the pick-up process as smooth as possible. If necessary, please provide a note with your camper
describing their luggage, so we can more easily recognize it on the baggage carousel.
Kindly note that we are unable to meet flights arriving at any other regional airport.If your child is flying through the airlines program as an unaccompanied minor, a Camp MasterChef staff member will meet them at the gate. Camp MasterChef will provide you with the staff member’s name and phone number via email 24 hours before camp begins (ID will be required by the airline before your child is released to our greeter). If your camper will not be using the airline program for unaccompanied minors, our staff will not be able to meet him/her at the gate upon arrival or bring him/her to the gate on departure. We will contact you by email 24 hors prior to arrival for your camper to meet our staff at a designated area. Kindly note that once your camper meets or is released to our greeter at the airport they must remain under our supervision at all times and we cannot entertain requests for your camper to be released from our care (i.e. to meet local friends or family in the NY/Atlanta area for dinner, etc.). If you wish for your camper to meet local friends and family on arrival, please do not use our meet & greet service and contact the business office to discuss other options for your camper to get to camp. All campers arriving in US with passports other than those issued by the United States require an Electronic System Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to travel. Please ensure you apply for an ESTA well in advance of travel. Campers arriving from some countries may also require an entry visa. Please check with your airline. NOTES: · Buses will transport campers to and from the airport on arrival and departure day. · In case of emergency, make sure that your child has the following camp telephone number and instruct him/her to call camp collect at +1 754-301-8885. · Please provide $15-20 for a meal stop or provide a picnic lunch. · Each camper should bring an additional $25 for their return trip home. All money will be held in the Camp Office until closing day. · Campers may bring cell phones for their flight, but they will be stored in the Camp Office until closing day. · Unaccompanied minor and baggage fees: Please make arrangements to pre-pay the round trip unaccompanied minor fee and baggage fee to the airline. If not, Camp MasterChef will charge the parent’s credit card to cover the fees. FEES Airport Meet & Greet and airport transportation to/from Camp —$125/one way. Refund policy: Bus service carries a $50 non-refundable fee if you withdraw your space on the bus up until 30 days before the date of service. Cancellations less than 30 days prior to bus service results in loss of the entire fee. 22 www.campmasterchef.com
STAYING CONNECTED
DO YOU WANT TO GET A GLIMPSE INTO YOUR CHILD’S EXPERIENCES
AT CAMP?
Through the Camp Blog of each session you will be able to find out the day’s happenings. Just go to our website
www.campmasterchef.com and click on the Camp Blogs Button at the top of the home page.
We will provide the password to access the Camp Blog one week prior the camp starts.
HOW DO I VIEW PICTURES?
Simply sign in on your CampInTouch account and click on the Photos button.
Photos are kept in folders by group found at the top of the page based on session and date. You can even purchase
printed or downloaded digital pictures. There is no cost to preview photos, however, in order to download or print
the photo at a high quality, there is an small associated fee.
You can also download for free the photos that we will uploaded on the Camp Blog of each session.
HOW DO I SEND AN EMAIL- (ONE WAY EMAIL) TO MY CAMPER?
Parents can send an email to campers. The subject of the email must include camper name and week at camp.
Campers will not be able to respond to this email.
Please use the following email addresses depending on locations:
GA and TX: camper-email-1@campmasterchef.com
CT and IL: camper-email-2@campmasterchef.com
CALIFORNIA: todd.foster@campmasterchef.com
PACKAGES AND STANDARD MAIL
It is Camp MasterChef policy not to accept packages for campers, however if you would like to send a hand-written
letter, it will be delivered on the same day it is received.
WHAT DO I DO IF I LOSE MY USERNAME AND PASSWORD?
You can get it online by going to the top of the Camp MasterChef homepage, click on Login and then click on the link
“Retrieve/Set Password.” You will receive an email with your username and password within a few minutes. Don’t
forget to check your SPAM/JUNK folder if your password is not emailed to you within a few minutes.
CAN OTHER RELATIVES USE THESE SERVICES?
Certainly. Once you have set up your account, you can invite other people to access these services. Please note,
the parent is the administrator of this section. If a guest has an issue with logging in, they will need to be in touch
directly with the person who invited them.
www.campmasterchef.com 23PHONE CALLS AND CONTACT US TELEPHONE CALLS Phone calls from campers are only permitted on Sundays for campers registered for two-week session. We find from past experiences that a phone conversation can cause stress to a camper’s adjustment at camp, as campers who are perfectly adjusted and happy at camp can begin missing home from a few short words with you. We recommend not getting into the “I Love You’s” and “I Miss You’s”, but more into discussions involving their program or a picture of them you saw on your CampInTouch page. At the same time, please do not hesitate to call us, as we have a complete and open communication policy between parents and staff and are happy to speak with you at any time regarding the welfare of your child. We want you to be reassured and know your child is cared for, doing well and happy, if a call is needed. CONTACT US We will provide via email two cell phone numbers before camp begins. In the event of an emergency, you can call this cell number (24/7) or contact the Camp MasterChef Office at +1 754-301-8885. CAMP LOCATIONS & DIRECTIONS • Kent School - 1 Macedonia Rd, Kent, CT 06757 • Rabun-Gap Nacoochee School - 339 Nacoochee Drive, Rabun Gap, Georgia 30568 • The Village School - 2005 Gentryside Dr, Houston, TX 77077 • Lake Forest Academy - 1500 W Kennedy Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045 • Scripps College - 1030 Columbia Avenue, Claremont, CA 91711
CAMP MASTERCHEF OFFICE:
WE ARE HERE TO HELP YOU!
We hope this Parent Handbook takes most of the mystery out of getting ready for your child’s summer. Please
believe us, this information and all the forms we have given you pay rich dividends in providing your child with a fun
and meaningful summer experience. If there is anything else you would like us to be aware of or any requests or
special needs that don’t fit on any of the other forms, just give us a call or send an email.
Please remember to log into our website at www.campmasterchef.com daily to see updated photos of campers
having a ball at camp. We will try to have every camper in at least one or two photos weekly.
We are partners in your child’s summer camp experience. We want each child to succeed and enjoy this incredible
opportunity. If you have questions or concerns, please contact us.
Sincerely,
Sandro Lucarini
CEO
The Camp MasterChef Office
2598 E. Sunrise Blvd, Suite 210A,
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33304
Tel.: +1 754-301-8885
Fax: +1 954-206-0449
info@campmasterchef.com
www.campmasterchef.com
www.campmasterchef.com 25The Camp MasterChef Office
Tel.: +1 754-301-8885
info@campmasterchef.com
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