YMCA CAMP ALGONQUIN FAMILY HANDBOOK - YMCA Of Barry County - Summer 2021
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YMCA CAMP ALGONQUIN YMCA Of Barry County FAMILY HANDBOOK Summer 2021
2021 Summer Camp
Family Handbook
Table of Contents
CONTENTS
WELCOME TO YMCA CAMP ALGONQUIN 3
GENERAL INFORMATION 4
PREPARING FOR CAMP 5
PACKING FOR CAMP 6
THE PACKING LIST 7
WELLNESS AND SAFETY 7
CAMPER COMMUNICATION 10
DAY CAMP SPECIFICS 11
TEEN TRIP SPECIFICS 11
CAMP ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE 12
TYPICAL DAILY SCHEDULE 14
ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE TIMES 15
2
A Message from the Camp Director
Welcome to another summer of adventure
and fun at Camp Algonquin. I’m looking
forward to seeing some familiar faces from
last summer and meeting all of our first-time
Our Mission CR.1,CR. 2.1;2.2;2.4
campers. Endless laughter, stories shared,
To put Christian principles into practice
and lifelong friendships make camp a very
through programs that build a healthy spirit,
special place. I’m excited to be a part of that
mind, and body for all.
again this year.
Our Core Values
As Camp Director, I have two priorities:
The YMCA is guided by four core values:
safety and fun. I will ensure that every
CARING: to demonstrate a sincere concern camper, staff member, and adult who enters
for others, for their needs and well-being Camp Algonquin feels safe and secure. We
aim to be an environment where everyone
HONESTY: to tell the truth, to demonstrate can try new things and be themselves.
reliability and trustworthiness through actions
Secondly, I want everyone to leave camp
that are in keeping with my stated positions
feeling like they had the time of their lives. It
and beliefs.
is all about the campers discovering new
RESPECT to treat others as I would want things, making new friends, and having FUN!
them to treat me, to value the worth of every
person, including myself. Camp is a unique experience where children
make memories and friendships that last a
RESPONSIBILITY to do what is right–what I lifetime. Camp will help shape them into the
ought to do, to be accountable for my choices people we need for the future. Camp was and
of behavior and actions and my promises. still is a place that has helped shape me into
who I am today, and I feel that every child is
Our Focus Areas
worthy of this same opportunity!
For Youth DevelopmentCR.2.1
At YMCA camp Algonquin, our goal is to This handbook has been designed to provide
empower youth to reach their full potential by detailed information that you will need and
discovering new things about themselves and answer frequently asked questions that may
their values and use their knowledge and come up as your family prepares your
skills to explore the world around them. camper. If you have any questions, please
feel free to contact us.
For Healthy Living
At YMCA Camp Algonquin, our goal is to I look forward to making sure that your
promote healthy lifestyle choices by providing camper has the best summer ever!
opportunities for a healthy spirit, mind, and
body through programs, interactions, and Yours in Camping,
healthy food choices.
For Social Responsibility Hanna “Fidget” O’Toole
At YMCA Camp Algonquin, everyone is
welcome. Campers will have the opportunity 269.945.4574
to learn how to give back through programs
and interactions within our community.
3
GROUP AGREEMENTS & CAMP POLICIES
Our Core Values and general guidelines at
camp are as follows;
CAMP CONTACTS 1. Be Caring
At the YMCA, we strive to provide our 2. Be Honest
members with the highest level of customer 3. Be Respectful
service. If you have any questions or 4. Be Responsible
concerns, please contact us immediately.
When these four things happen, then
YMCA of Barry County/Camp Algonquin everyone will be able to have fun which is
269-945-4574 what camp is all about. With our core values
office@ymcaofbarrycounty.org as a starting point, campers will develop
group agreements with their counselors and
YMCA CAMP ALGONQUIN STAFF other campers. These group agreements will
We hire a selective group of individuals from determine the guideline they want to live by
the United States as well as from abroad to during their stay at camp.
celebrate worldwide connections. All Camp
Algonquin staff are carefully chosen and In addition to the guidelines above, campers
interviewed for their skills, abilities, and belief are not permitted to use or have in their
in the ideals of the YMCA. They love the possession tobacco, electronic nicotine
outdoors, are responsible, and have an delivery systems, alcohol, or drugs in any
interest in helping children grow. Many are form. Illegal substances are not permitted at
college students, as well as former campers camp.
and YMCA activity participants. All staff
complete intensive training related to their No Bullying Zone
position, including first aid, CPR, camp craft There is a zero-tolerance policy for bullying at
skills, child development, and waterfront YMCA Camp Algonquin. Our staff is trained to
skills. watch for and detect signs of bullying
behavior. We know that at times, children
ASKING FOR HELP may have disagreements; however, direct
At YMCA Camp Algonquin, every counselor, targeting of an individual will not be allowed.
staff member, and employee is there to help. We encourage any camper to share any
Our goal is to provide a safe, memorable, and concern they may have with the way they or
fun experience for your camper. Talk to them any other person is treated while at camp.
ahead of time about asking for help when
needed and how to share it with camp staff. Defacing Camp Property
Remind your camper that while very talented, The YMCA of Barry County works hard to
the counselors can’t read minds, and they will make sure that we have outstanding facilities
need to ask for help, and that is okay. for our campers and staff to experience the
joys of camp. If a camper chooses to deface
Similarly, for parents, the staff and directors
camp property, the family will be billed to
are more than happy and willing to assist in
replace what is damaged. If a camper
any way, but we can’t help if we don’t know
chooses to write on the bunks, they will be
there is a problem. Please e-mail or call if you
asked to return to camp to sand the bunk
need anything.
clean or asked not to return in the future.
4Anyone in violation of this policy or anyone money not collected at the end of summer
behaving in a manner that is dangerous to will go directly to our campership funds.
themselves or others will be sent home at the Purchases at the camp store are optional.
parent/guardian’s expense. If you or your While campers can purchase food options
camper has specific concerns, please contact from the store, camp will provide healthy
the Camp Director prior to checking into snacks two times daily in the main lodge. We
camp. recommend 15 to 25 dollars for store money
for campers to have the option of purchasing
INCLUSION CR.1 snacks, treats, and merchandise. .The camp
Every child should have the chance to go to store will be open for families who want an
camp. If your camper requires special additional opportunity to purchase camp
accommodations (dietary, physical, merchandise during check-in and check-out
behavioral, etc.), please contact us
for Overnight Camp, as well as during the
immediately so any reasonably necessary
accommodations may be made prior to your final pick-up for Day Camp.
camper’s arrival. To discuss your camper’s
special needs, please contact Camp Director The YMCA of Barry County is not responsible
Hanna O’Toole. for any items purchased at the camp store
that are lost or stolen during your camper’s
CAMP MERCHANDISE
stay.
Each camper will receive a camp T-shirt and
photo as part of their stay. The Camper Care
CAMPER SURVEYS
Packages can be ordered prior to your
Campers may be asked to complete an
camper’s stay by updating your online camp
evaluation during their camp session. Parents
registration or contacting our Office Manager
and guardians of campers will also have the
and Registrar. A wide variety of other camp
opportunity to complete an online survey
merchandise will be available at the YMCA
asking for feedback on their camper’s
Camp Algonquin Camp Store.
experience at camp in the weeks following the
session via e-mail. Your input on the camp
CAMP STORE
experience is important. This information is
The camp store is your source for camp
used to make improvements to the camper
souvenirs, gifts, T-shirts, and many other fun
experience. We THANK YOU in advance for
camp accessories! Each camper will have
completing this survey.
multiple opportunities to visit the camp store.
Cash, check, or credit card can be used for a
deposit to set up a store account. Any money
not submitted with registration will be
collected at check-in and logged into the PREPARING YOUR CAMPER
camper’s account. If you find the need to add One of the primary goals of camp is to offer
store money after you have dropped off your progressive experiences that allow children to
camper, please call the camp office for develop new skills and confidence. Coming to
assistance at 269-945-4574. Families will not camp and being away from home and family
have the ability to add camp store funds to for an extended time provides a great
their online account while their camper is at opportunity to grow.
camp.
It is important that each camper is able to
Any funds remaining in the camper’s account care for their general well-being. While
at the end of the week will be available to you counselors are always there to support them,
at the camp store during check-out. Any campers are expected to eat meals, shower,
5groom, dress themselves, and communicate not to let your camper know how much you
their needs with camp staff. are going to miss them. Be strong! You don’t
Please note that we only have showers want them to worry about you while they are
available at camp. There are no bathtubs. at camp.
Help your camper get ready for camp by
being excited! Let your camper know that you
want them to have fun and learn new things.
Emphasize that your camper is “going” to
camp instead of saying you are “sending”
them. If your camper has any anxiety about
the dark, bugs, night noises, or being away By following these easy tips, your camper will
from home, please start preparing them for be prepared for anything during their camp
these things now. adventure.
● Pack your camper’s possessions in a duffel
PREPARING FOR CAMP bag or plastic tub with a secure lid.
● Have overnights at friends’ or relatives’ ● Encourage your camper to pack everything
homes. into one suitable-sized container for their
● Plan some outdoor activities as a family to session. This helps ensure things do not get
get your camper used to outdoor weather. lost.
● Encourage your camper to pick out their ● Clearly mark all clothing and equipment
clothes and help with packing. with the camper’s name, including luggage
● Pick out a security item like a teddy bear or or tubs.
blanket to bring. ● Pack comfortable, lightweight clothing that
● Help them learn how to make their bed and is easy to clean. Clothes WILL get dirty at
set and wipe the table. camp.
● Make sure they are comfortable doing ● Have your camper wear proper fitting,
personal care routines like showering, sturdy shoes to camp. Campers need to
brushing teeth/hair, and dressing on their wear sturdy shoes every day due to the
own. natural hazards at camp. Sturdy sandals
● Homesickness is normal. Discuss what it with a heel strap are acceptable for some
may feel like and suggest ways to help your camp activities; however, tennis shoes are
camper overcome it if they experience it. necessary. Campers may only wear
● Talk to other families and friends who have flip-flops in the shower.
attended camp, so you know what to ● Remember to pack extra clothing/shoes in
expect. case of rainy weather.
● Write notes/letters for your camper and ● Zip Lock bags are great for keeping items
bring them to camp during drop-off to be dry and keeping wet items from leaking on
delivered to them during the week. clothes.
PREPARING YOURSELF CHECK-IN ITEMS
It’s totally normal for parents and guardians Do not pack away in luggage.
to have mixed feelings when their camper ● Medication
goes away – whether it’s their first time away ● Money
or not. Remember, you have chosen a fun
and safe place, and your camper will be well ITEMS TO LEAVE AT HOME
cared for. The staff is trained to deal with any ● Food! It only attracts unwanted critters.
problem from homesickness to first aid. Try Camp will provide opportunities for snacks.
6● Inappropriate clothing or clothing items that ❏ Towels and washcloths
are not functional for camping, such as ❏ Deodorant and toiletries
halter tops, tube tops, or formalwear. ❏ Feminine hygiene supplies*
● Items that advertise inappropriate material ❏ Eye care needs*
● Pocket knives or other weapons ❏ Dental care needs*
● Any item that would cause distress if it was
lost or damaged.
If these or any other items found to be
disrupting to the camp program are brought EQUIPMENT
to camp, they will be collected by a staff ❏ Sleeping bag
member and returned to the camper upon ❏ Extra sheets and blankets for chilly nights
check-out. if desired
❏ Pillow
LOST AND FOUND ❏ Raincoat or poncho
Lost items are displayed to be claimed every ❏ Flashlight and extra batteries
day at meals and are laid out during ❏ Hat with brim
check-out. Unclaimed items will be held at ❏ Laundry Bag
YMCA Camp Algonquin until September 1st. ❏ Insect repellent
Any items left unclaimed by then will be ❏ Water bottle with camper’s name
donated to Goodwill Industries. ❏ Sunscreen
❏ Backpack or daypack
OPTIONAL ITEMS
❏ Inexpensive camera with batteries or
CLOTHING
charger
Shorts for each day and extras
❏ Bandana
Shirts for each day and extras
❏ Sandals or flip-flops for the shower
Long pants or jeans for hiking, horseback
❏ Stationary or postcards, addresses, pens or
riding, and cooler days
pencils, stamps
Underwear for each day and extras
❏ Sunglasses
Socks for each day and extras
❏ Books, magazines, or journal for downtime
Pajamas
❏ Watch
Lightweight sweater, jacket, or sweatshirt
❏ Boots or rain boots
Bathing suit (needs to be appropriate for
❏ Extra swimsuit and towel
water sports such as a one-piece, tankini
❏ Water shoes/aqua socks
or other sport style suit) and beach towel
❏ Safety strap for glasses/sunglasses*
Two pairs of properly fitting shoes that can
❏ Personal fan for bunk
get wet and dirty. One pair needs to be
❏ Masks
tennis shoes, while the other may be
sandals with a sturdy heel strap. (No crocs,
EXTRA COUNSELOR IN TRAINING ITEMS
jelly shoes, or clogs)
❏ Swimwear that does not have ties
❏ Craft and game ideas/books
PERSONAL ITEMS
❏ Watch
❏ Soap
❏ Khaki Shorts
❏ Shampoo and conditioner
❏ Hairbrush and/or comb *if applicable
❏ Hairbands or other hair accessories
❏ Toothbrush and toothpaste
7medication should be checked in on
opening day with the Wellness Team,
WELLNESS TEAM who will oversee proper administration
The Health Services Director or a wellness of all medications. Medications may NOT
team member is on duty at camp at all times. be kept by campers.
In emergencies and cases of non-routine
Camp is a different environment from home
illnesses and injuries, parents/guardians will
and school, with new procedures and rules.
be notified immediately. In cases of minor
We want your camper to have a positive
injuries or illnesses (ex: bug bites, scrapes,
experience. If your camper takes prescription
headache, minor sunburn, etc.), treatment
medication for any health-related condition,
will be provided. If the wellness team has
we strongly advise that they continue these
questions or concerns regarding these minor
medications under the supervision of our
cases, parents/guardians will be contacted.
Wellness Team. This will ensure that the
transition to camp life is smooth and
YMCA Camp Algonquin’s wellness team may
successful. Please let us know if your child’s
be contacted at
doctor has advised that your camper not take
camphealth@ymcaofbarrycounty.org
their medications during camp.
between May-August. If you have
health-related questions or concerns outside
OVER THE COUNTER MEDICATIONS
of the regular camp season, please contact
The Wellness Center has a supply of common
our camp office.
over-the-counter medication. Unless your
camper takes an over-the-counter drug as a
COVID-19
part of their regular medication regimen, we
We will be following current standards set by
recommend you primarily use the camp's
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). For
supply if needed.
more information, please see page 16.
The following medications are available at the
HEALTH INFORMATION Wellness Center and are recommended by our
Health information is required for all campers, camp physicians through our standing orders.
regardless of session and program. Health They will be administered under the health
forms are available on your household's supervisor or designee's supervision; dosed
online registration portal or by calling the as appropriate for the camper's weight and/or
office. All campers must complete the record age.
of immunization section. A current tetanus
booster (administered within the last ten ● Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
years) is required for all campers. ● Ibuprofen (Motrin)
● Decongestant (Sudafed)
The security, confidentiality, and privacy of ● Antihistamine (Claritin)
your camper's personal health information will ● Antacid (Tums)
always be protected. Only our Wellness Team ● Antidiarrheal (Pepto-Bismol)
will have access to camper health ● Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
information. ● Naphazoline/Pheniramine (Visine)
● Expectorant (cough suppressant,
MEDICATIONS cough drops)
All over-the-counter and prescription ● Topical Corticosteroid (Hydrocortisone
medications must be in original Cream)
containers with the correct, current
label, including the camper’s name. All HEAD LICE
8YMCA Camp Algonquin has a no lice, no-nit ● Show confidence in your camper that
policy. The presence of nits, live lice, or dead they will do great and will not
eggs will require the camper and their experience too much homesickness.
belongings to have treatment before ● Let them know that you want them to
admittance to camp. The camper’s laundry have a good time and make new
will also need to be treated to ensure it is friends.
lice-free. No camper will be admitted back to ● Avoid bargaining. Saying something
camp until all lice and eggs (nits) have been like, “If you’re really homesick, I
removed after the application of a lice-killing promise I’ll come to pick you up right
product. All belongings, including clothes, away.” sends the message to your
pillows, and sleeping bag, must be laundered camper that you are not confident in
in hot water and dried in a hot dryer. The their ability to succeed.
camper will need to be completely nit-free to ● Provide stationary and self-addressed,
return to camp. There are no exceptions to stamped envelopes to write you notes.
this policy and no refunds for the camp Consider preparing letters and bringing
session. them to check in to be delivered to
your camper throughout the week.
HOMESICKNESS
Though not very often, common, or ● Do not suggest that they call you if
long-lasting, homesickness can occur at they feel homesick. Often, calling
camp. We have experienced staff members home makes homesickness worse, and
that are trained to work with homesick campers do not have access to the
camp phone.
campers. If it occurs, homesickness usually
● Lastly, should your camper ask, “What
happens at the beginning of the week and
if I get homesick?” remind them of the
quickly dissipates as the camper gets settled many people at camp who are there to
into camp life. The first few hours and days help.
are a normal transition phase for everyone,
and it is typical for campers to all adjust at Here are a few things to remember once you
different paces. have checked your camper in:
● Once you get your camper moved in,
There are a few things a parent can do ahead try to leave as soon as possible so
of time to help prevent long-lasting your camper can start making new
homesickness: friends and get involved with activities.
● Keep upbeat when you say goodbye.
● Explain what homesickness is and let Save your tears until you get to the
them know that it is normal, what it car where your camper won’t see you.
might feel like, and that it will go ● Be aware that your camper’s
away. counselors will engage the campers in
● Give them some ideas of things they singing songs and playing games as
can do to help alleviate homesick soon as you leave.
feelings, such as: ● You can stay connected to your
● Think about the fun things you camper by sending them mail and
will be doing later. e-mail while they are at camp.
● Take a special stuffed animal or ● You will have access to a secured site
book that makes her feel with regular posts and photos from all
secure. the sessions at camp each week.
● Talk to your counselor or a ● You are always welcome to call or
friend. e-mail to check in on your camper.
9If you believe your camper is prone to Send your camper with stationary,
homesickness, please share this information pre-addressed envelopes or an address list,
when filling out their health information. You and stamps, and we will help them get the
can also discuss it with a staff member at letter in the mail.
check-in (without involving your camper).
You can stay connected to your camper by
SAFETY AND SECURITY sending them an e-mail while they are at
Access to camp property is limited, controlled, camp. Simply send an e-mail to
and only authorized visitors are allowed on office@ymcaofbarrycounty.org with your
site. To ensure camp safety and security and camper's name as the subject line. The staff
to limit interruptions to the camp program, will print it out and deliver it to your camper
unauthorized visitors are not allowed on site. during mail time.
If you need to stop at camp, please call the
camp office prior to your arrival. E-mails or mail received after 12 pm /
NOON will not be delivered until the next
SEVERE WEATHER day.
At camp, we have a communication system to
alert all staff and campers of any weather TIPS FOR CAMPER COMMUNICATION
watches and warnings. Our staff is trained DO tell them:
and drilled in emergency procedures and ● You know they are having a good
participate in drills to make sure that they are time.
prepared in case of a weather-related ● You can’t wait to hear all about their
emergency. Campers are also aware of what new friends, the fun activities they are
happens during different types of doing, to see their art projects, or to
emergencies. learn all of the new songs they are
singing
In case of a weather-related emergency,
● You hope they are writing down songs,
updates can be found on the YMCA of Barry
names of new friends, and taking lots
County Facebook Page.
of pictures
● Use positive words like love and proud
DON’T tell them about:
Campers love to hear from home while they
● Trips or fun things they are missing
are away at camp. We offer options for you to
out on
communicate with your camper.
● How a sibling cried all night because
they are not home
SNAIL MAIL
● How much you miss them
Campers love cheerful letters from home. You
● An ill relative or a hurt animal
can mail a letter before your camper leaves
for camp or after you drop them off. Please
ELECTRONIC DEVICES
address mail as follows:
We kindly ask that all electronic devices are
Camper Name,
left at home. With youth development being
Week # or Theme
one of the focus areas of the YMCA, we would
Cabin Number
like to encourage participants to be engaged
YMCA Camp Algonquin
in the programs offered at camp. If any
PO Box 252
electronics are brought to camp, the staff will
Hastings, MI 49058
10collect them. Electronics will be stored Tennis shoes that can get dirty
securely in the Camp Director’s office and
returned to the parents/guardians during ADVENTURE DAY CAMP
checkout. Adventure Day Camp will go on a field trip on
Tuesdays to the Battle Creek Outdoor
Education Center. They will use public
transportation to get there and will be back in
time to go for a swim before heading home.
It will be beneficial for Day Camp families to
*Pending COVID-19 regulations*
read this whole handbook. However, there are
a few specifics for our Day Camp programs. On Wednesday nights, Day Campers are
You will receive an e-mail from the Assistant invited to stay overnight at Camp Algonquin.
Camp Director and Day Camp Coordinator This overnight stay is completely optional.
two weeks prior to your camper's visit to Day Campers that decide to go home
camp. This e-mail (from Wednesday instead of sleeping at camp will
mallory@ymcaofbarrycounty.org) will contain need to be picked up at their usual check-out
specific additional information you will want to time at 5:00 p.m. When Day Campers choose
have. to stay the night, they have the opportunity
to learn about overnight camp and experience
Check-in and check-out will happen each the excitement of staying overnight with a
day by the parking lot in the big field. If the group of friends. During the Day Camp
weather is poor, please follow the black Wednesday overnight, the campers will do the
sidewalk to the main building. Please make zip line (weather permitting), enjoy the
sure to check your camper out each day themed dinner, and have a campfire. Day
with the staff. You may be asked to show a Campers will have the opportunity to choose
photo ID at pick-up. If your child will be to sleep outdoors (weather permitting) or
leaving early or missing a day of camp, inside the program room on the floor.
please notify the Day Camp Coordinator
or the main office. Extra items needed for the overnight:
Meals & Snacks: Adventure Day Campers ❏ Sleeping bag
are provided breakfast, lunch, and an ❏ Pillow
afternoon snack every day plus supper for the ❏ A second change of clothing
overnight. Tiny Tots are provided a snack ❏ Toothbrush & toothpaste
each day. ❏ Pull-ups or briefs (if needed)
You may pack any other items you see fit
Adventure Day Campers and Tiny Tots are
from the overnight packing list, but please
asked to pack the following items in a
make sure not to pack more than what your
backpack each day:
camper can carry on their own.
A change of clothes
Bathing suit (needs to be appropriate
for water sports such as a one-piece,
tankini or other sport style suit) and
towel It will be beneficial for Teen Trip families to
Water bottle read this whole handbook. However, there are
A light jacket/sweatshirt a few specifics for the trip. You will also
Sunscreen receive an e-mail from camp two weeks prior
Bug spray
11to your camper’s visit to camp with additional a rain jacket or poncho, swimsuit, and towel
detailed information. Things to note: good fitting, pre-broken in hiking
shoes/boots, easy to slip on shoes with a
● Trip campers will not have camp store heel strap (no flip flops)
accounts. They will be allowed to bring ● Ziploc/Trash bags
money to camp with them, but they ● Great for keeping things dry
are responsible for their own money. Any toiletries you may need
● Trip campers will not be on-site to ● Deodorant
participate in all of the usual camp ● Toothpaste
activities. They should not expect to ● Shampoo
do any of them. ● Try to avoid bringing perfume or body
● Families should note that this is a spray as it will attract mosquitoes. It is
co-ed camping opportunity. even a good idea to find deodorant and
● All camp rules included in this shampoos with no scent or tea tree
handbook will still apply while on the scented.
trip. ● Bug Spray
● Sun Screen
TRIP ITINERARY
● Flashlight / Headlamp / Lantern
The itinerary for this trip is flexible for a
● A large water bottle
couple of reasons. The weather may be a
● Sleeping Bag and Pillow
factor, and we like to allow these older
● optional items:
campers to have input with some things they
■ Sleeping pad
do. The campers will spend their first night at
■ Sheets
YMCA Camp Algonquin preparing for the trip.
They will learn about caring for equipment
and trip expectations. After packing the
vehicles, they will depart camp on Monday
mid-day and return Thursday mid-day. While
Everyone is excited for the first day of camp.
at the campsite, they will cook their meals
Every effort is taken to make the check-in
and may hike, swim, go tubing, relax, and
process as efficient as possible. However,
explore the dunes.
several steps must be taken to ensure that
your camper has a healthy and fun camp
TEEN TRIP PACKING LIST
experience. Please be prepared to spend
● 1 Large Backpack
some time getting through the check-in
● Your backpack should be able to fit all the
process. Come dressed for the weather and
possessions you will need for a 4-day,
be prepared to walk and stand.
3-night stay in a tent.
● If you do not own a large backpack,
ARRIVAL
another bag will suffice; however, please
*Please see current check-in/ check-out
avoid bags with wheels or totes if
procedures in the e-mail you will receive
possible.
a couple of weeks prior to camp*
● Small Daypack backpack for carrying a
water bottle, snacks, bathing suit, etc.
As you arrive at camp, there will be staff on
Drawstring bags make great day packs!
hand to help direct you where to go. Ask any
● Clothing for at least 4 days
staff member in a Camp Algonquin polo if you
● It never hurts to pack extra socks or
need help. The check-in will take place at the
underwear.
camp lodge and will begin promptly at the
● Make sure to bring warm clothes.
check-in time listed. Please be patient while
12waiting if you arrive at camp early. When you please call the camp office so we can let your
enter the lodge, you and your camper will camper know you are on your way and keep
visit a few different stations to ensure that them busy until you arrive.
your paperwork is complete and to open your
camp store account if desired. Please note that prior to pick-up, campers are
busy finishing activities, so we ask that you
Your camper will complete a quick health not pick up your camper before their
check, which will include a general health check-out time. We understand that things
screening and lice check in a private area. By come up and schedules are busy. If your
completing lice checks upon arrival, we can camper needs to be picked up early, please
avoid or minimize families having to return to notify the camp office as soon as possible so
camp and reduce the chance of anyone we can assure your camper is prepared.
leaving with it. Braids and ponytails may need
If someone other than a parent is picking up
to be taken out so you may want to wait until
your camper, include those individuals on
after the health check to braid hair.
your camp forms under pick-up authorization,
or notify camp staff during check-in. The
You can expedite the check-in process by
person picking up each camper may be asked
making sure your camper has the items listed
to show a photo ID at pick-up. No campers
below, either already completed, or out and
will be released to unauthorized persons.
ready to process at the proper check-in
stations. If your child will be leaving early or
● Completed registration and forms on missing a day of camp please notify the
CampBrain prior to arrival. Camp Director or the main office.
● Store money – optional but suggested
● All medications – All inhalers, Please do not take your camper home
medicated creams, prescription, and without signing them out with their
non-prescription drugs need to be counselor.
checked in with the wellness team
SPECIAL ARRANGEMENTS
upon arrival. They must be in
Your camper’s program activities will begin
original containers with labels and
immediately after being checked-in. We do
doctor’s release.
not want your camper to miss out on this
valuable time to get to know their fellow
Once check-in is complete, families will be
campers and to settle into camp life. Campers
directed to their camper’s cabin. Families are
who must arrive late, depart early, or leave
invited to help their camper move into the
during a session are asked to make this
cabin, meet the counselors, and ask any
request to the Camp Director before the camp
last-minute questions. Please try to keep this
session begins.
process quick as prolonging good-byes can
promote homesickness in your camper.
PETS
Pets are not allowed on camp property.
CHECK- OUT Please leave pets or other animals at home or
Please verify your check-out day and time in the car when dropping off or picking up
(the schedule is on page 14) and plan to pick your camper from camp. However, you can
up your camper at the appropriate time. expect to see year-round staff member’s
On-time pick-up eases your camper’s nerves pets.
during the anticipation of going home. If
something happens and you are running late, WE ARE EXCITED TO SEE YOU THIS SUMMER!
13-The YMCA Camp Algonquin Staff
Typical Daily Schedule
7:15 am Optional Polar Bear Plunge
7:45 am Wake Up & Clean Up
All Camp Huddle, Flag,
8:20 am
& Breakfast
Cabin Rotations,
9:30 am Cabin Choice,
or Theme Activity
11:30 am Skill Sessions
12:30 pm SongFest
12:45pm Lunch
1:45pm Rest Hour
2:45 pm Freetime (Store and other activities)
4:00pm Swim
All Camp Huddle, Flag,
5:45 pm
& Dinner
7:00pm Evening Program
9:00pm Shower/Evening Activities
*Bedtimes Vary Depending on Age*
14Arrival and Departure Times
Overnight Camp
Check-in (Sunday) 3:00-4:00 pm
Check-out (Friday) 4:00 pm
Jr. Overnight Camp→ Session A
Check-in (Sunday) 3:00-3:30 pm
Check-out (Tuesday) 11:00 am
Jr. Overnight Camp→ Session B
Check-in (Tuesday) 3:00-3:30 pm
Check-out (Thursday) 4:30 pm
Adventure Day Camp
Check-in (M-F) 8:00 am
Check-out (M-F) 5:00 pm
Tiny Tots Day Camp→ Morning
Check-in (M-F) 8:00 am
Check-out (M-F) 11:00 am
Tiny Tots Day Camp→ Afternoon
Check-in (M-F) 2:00 pm
Check-out (M-F) 5:00 pm
Teen Trip
Check-in (Sunday) 3:00 pm
Check-out (Thursday) 4:00 pm
Family Camp
Check-in (Wednesday) 3:30-4:00 pm
15Check-out (Saturday) 11:00 am
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