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Parent
Manual
Jewish Community Center 7300 Hart Lane Austin, TX 78731 www.shalomaustin.org (512)735-8000
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Welcome to the JCC family! We’re so happy that you have chosen us as the place for your children to experience their summer. On the Dell Jewish Community Campus—home of the JCC—campers play in safe, stimulating settings, take
advantage of a double gymnasium, a low-element challenge course, an age-appropriate playground, soccer field, softball diamond, nature trails, two large pavilions, and a beautiful outdoor pool. Coolers filled with cold water can be found
throughout the outdoor area. Whichever JCC camp you have chosen—Camp Shalom, Sports Camp, Camp Tiyul, Performing Arts, or any of our one-week Specialty Camps—we guarantee that an unforgettable summer awaits your
children!
Contents
GENERAL CAMP INFORMATION ................................................................................................................... 4
Camp Philosophy _____________________________________________________________________________________ 4 Camp Newsletter and Parent Communication ______________________________________________________________ 4 Camp Shalom & Camp Tiyul Contact Information ___________________________________________________________ 4 Sports Camp Contact Information ________________________________________________________________________ 4 Calendar/Map ________________________________________________________________________________________ 4 Opportunities to visit Camp _____________________________________________________________________________ 4 Visiting Camp at other times ____________________________________________________________________________ 4 Drop-Off/Pick-Up Procedures ___________________________________________________________________________ 5 Absences ____________________________________________________________________________________________ 6 Out of Town _________________________________________________________________________________________ 6 Health at Camp _______________________________________________________________________________________ 6 Illness _______________________________________________________________________________________________ 6 Behavioral Guidelines _________________________________________________________________________________ 7 Personal/Valuable Items _______________________________________________________________________________ 7 Lost and Found _______________________________________________________________________________________ 7 T-Shirts/Camper Photos ________________________________________________________________________________ 8 Lunch & Snacks _______________________________________________________________________________________ 8 Pizza Day ____________________________________________________________________________________________ 8 Gratuities____________________________________________________________________________________________ 8
CAMP SHALOM ............................................................................................................................................ 9
Staff and Safety_______________________________________________________________________________________ 9
CAMP SHALOM & CAMP TIYUL - SESSIONS IA, IB, IIA, & IIB ........................................................................... 9
Camp Shalom Grades K-5 _______________________________________________________________________________ 9 Late Nights __________________________________________________________________________________________ 9 Overnights ___________________________________________________________________________________________ 9 Field Trips ___________________________________________________________________________________________ 9 Camp Tiyul (6th-9th) __________________________________________________________________________________ 10 General Rules: _______________________________________________________________________________________ 10 Inclusion Program ____________________________________________________________________________________ 11
DIRECTOR'S LETTER TO CAMP FAMILIES ..................................................................................................... 11
Cell Phones _________________________________________________________________________________________ 11 Digital Photographs __________________________________________________________________________________ 11 Cyber-Bullying and Harassment ________________________________________________________________________ 12
Please plan to join us on Thursday June 9th
Parent Open House, 5:00PM
3:30 and 4:30 PM
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Your Kids, Our Staff, After Camp ________________________________________________________________________ 12 Working Together to Keep Your Children Safe _____________________________________________________________ 12 Camp Shalom and Camp Tiyul Policy for Campers and the Internet ___________________________________________ 12
SWIM PROGRAM ...................................................................................... ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.
ONE WEEK SPECIALTY CAMPS…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….15
General Specialty Camp Information ___________________________________________________________________15 Camp Tiyul–Highlits and Water Week! For campers entering grades 6–9 ______________________________________15 Crossfit Kids For campers entering grades 3-6______________________________________________________15 Dance Camp For campers entering grades K–3_____________________________________________________16 Dance Camp Intensive For campers entering grades 4-9 ______________________________________________16 Improv Comedy Camp with the Hideout Theatre For campers entering grades K–8________________________16 KidzArt Camp For campers entering grades K–6____________________________________________________16 Lego Robotics Camp For campers entering grades K-7________________________________________________17 Mad Science Camp For campers entering K-6_______________________________________________________17 Performing Arts Camp For campers entering grades 3–8______________________________________________17 RecQuest For campers entering grades 3–6________________________________________________________18
SPORTSCAMPS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………18 Staff____________________________________________________________________________________18 Philosophy_______________________________________________________________________________18 T-shirts & Photos___________________________________________________________________________18 Clothing & Equipment_______________________________________________________________________18 Swimming________________________________________________________________________________18
Field Trips__________________________________________________________________________________________19
Late Arrivals & Early Pickups___________________________________________________________________________19
Overnights_________________________________________________________________________________________18
KIM’SGYM
GYMNASTICS……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………20
Drop-off and Pick-Up Tiny Tumblers Campers_____________________________________________________20 How is my child doing at Camp?_______________________________________________________________20
CAMPUS MAP…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….22
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General Camp Information
Camp Philosophy
JCC Summer Camps strive to create a friendly and cooperative atmosphere that fosters individual growth. Campers are encouraged to learn new skills and master old ones, to express themselves creatively, and to grow in their abilities to relate to others. In this supportive environment, a true sense of community develops. Campers are also encouraged to learn about their environment and the world around them. The camp setting gives children an opportunity to be part of a camp family in a nurturing and exciting atmosphere.
Camp Newsletter and Parent Communication
Every week throughout the summer, our camp newsletter will be delivered directly to your inbox. Camp Staff will share important program information and each group will provide an update. We’ll be sending the newsletter to the e-mail address you provided in the camp application. Though this e-mail format, your child’s camp experience will be easily shared with other family members and friends throughout the summer.
Many of our camp programs and activities are new experiences for our campers. Since parents are important members of our camp family too, we invite you to encourage your child to try new things and to let their counselor know when they may need extra help or encouragement.
Camp Shalom & Camp Tiyul Contact Information
If you have any questions you may call or email us directly:
Leslie LaBrie, Director Camp Shalom & Camp Tiyul 735-8074 [email protected] Jessica Ochs, Assistant Director and Inclusion 735-8036 [email protected] Nick Tosh, Assistant Director and LIT 735-8046 [email protected] Adam Roberts, AJRT Artistic Director 735-8050 [email protected] Lee Braverman, Youth & Teen Program Manager 735-8050 [email protected] Heather Brands, Aquatics Manager 735-8222 [email protected]
Sports Camp Contact Information Jen Reed, Director of Sports Camps 735-8206 [email protected] Angelo Florez, Assistant Director Sports Camp 735-8208 [email protected] Kim Lindauer, Director, Champions Academy 826-8015 [email protected]
Calendar/Map
Please check your calendar each day before sending your child to camp. Also, don’t forget to check the map on page 23 for drop-off and pick-up sites and other important campus locations.
Opportunities to visit Camp
Session IIB: Friday, July 29th - Band Stand – Join your child for lunch and stay for an amazing show! Pizza lunch will be served at 12:00 pm. Show starting at 2:00 PM.
Shabbat: Every Friday, from June 17th-August 5th - Join us to celebrate Shabbat. 3:00 PM.
Visiting Camp at other times
Parents are welcome to visit our Camps at other times; however, we ask that you follow these security procedures during your visit:
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1. Notify your child’s Camp Office that you are coming.
2. Check in at your child’s Camp Office when you arrive. The Camp Shalom Office is located upstairs, above the ECP lobby and the Sport’s Camp Office is located in the Main Building by the Welcome Desk.
3. Sign in and receive a nametag. A staff member will escort you to your child's group. Visitors without a nametag will be asked to return to the Camp Office.
4. Please keep in mind that independence is one of our goals for the summer. Children whose parents constantly visit find it more difficult to meet this goal and grow on their own.
5. Check out at the Camp Office at the end of your visit.
Drop-Off/Pick-Up Procedures - Extremely Important Information—please read carefully!
General Procedures
Be sure to place your Camp windshield placard on your dashboard.
See the map on page 23 for drop-off/pick-up locations and directions.
Drop-Off
Core-Day Campers are to be dropped off between 8:45 and 9:00 AM at the front entrance of the Camp Pavilion. You may also park (see map) and walk your child to the drop-off area. As our day starts promptly at 9:00 AM, no staff will be available at the drop off area after 9:00 AM.
For AM Care Campers dropped off before 8:45 AM, parents must park and escort their child upstairs to the CAA Multipurpose Room located at the rear of the Education Building, second floor. AM Care beings at 7:30am.
Pick-Up
Core-Day Campers are to be picked up beginning at 3:45 PM at the circle drive. You may also park (see map) and walk to the pick-up area.
PM Care ends promptly at 6:00 PM. Parents of PM Care Campers must park and come into the ECP lobby. Staff will greet you and call your child’s counselor who will send him or her to meet you.
If you would like to talk to camp administration, we encourage you to park and walk over to the pick-up area so as to avoid delaying other cars. Our Camp Administrative Staff will communicate your questions or concerns to the appropriate Counselors as soon as possible. Please respect the Staff responsibility to continue watching all the campers in their group.
Late Arrivals and Early Pick-ups
Late arrivals must go to the Camp Office to sign in. Please let the appropriate Staff know in advance about late arrivals at 735-8050.
If you need to pick up your child early, please call the Camp Office at 735-8050 or e-mail [email protected] and send a note with your child for his/her counselor. Please meet your child in the Camp Office for pick-up, allowing enough time for your child to be escorted to the Camp Office.
Late Pick-Up Policy
A child worries when everyone else has been picked up and he or she is the only one remaining at camp. Late fees are designed to compensate staff for their time and to discourage parents from being late. Please be advised that we enforce the following policy regarding late fees:
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For Core-Day Campers, a parent or emergency contact will be called if the camper has not been picked up by 4:00 PM. Parents will be charged a late fee of $20 plus $1 per minute after 4:00 PM.
For PM Care Campers, a parent or emergency contact will be called if the camper has not been picked up by 6:00 PM. Parents will be charged a late fee of $20 plus $1 per minute after 6:00 PM.
Upon pick-up, both a staff person and a parent will sign a late fee form verifying the date and time. The form will be kept on file and a copy will be issued to Accounting for billing.
Absences
Please notify the Camp Office at 735-8050 or [email protected] by 8:30 am if your child is going
to be absent.
Out of Town
If you plan to be out of town while your child continues to attend camp, please advise us accordingly and give us the
name of someone who should be contacted in your absence.
Health at Camp
It is very important to all of us that campers are in good health and free from any infections. Medical exams must be
arranged before your child attends camp. For the health and safety of all children, a current health statement form must
be on file. If you need an additional form, please contact the Youth and Teen Office at 735-8050 or
Illness
Parents are asked to cooperate with our Camp by keeping children home when there is any indication of illness, particularly symptoms of fever, stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, rash, and/or lice.
Staff is instructed in the recognition of early symptoms of illness and is trained in CPR and First Aid.
Any child with signs of illness during the day will be isolated and his or her parents will be notified. The parents must make arrangements for the child’s prompt pick-up.
If a child is absent for two or more days, his or her parents should call the Camp Office to explain the nature of the child's illness, or other reasons for absence.
In the case of an emergency, every effort is made to notify parents first. If parents are unreachable, the emergency number will be called. If no one can be reached, the child will be taken to the nearest hospital for emergency treatment. We will continue our efforts to reach a parent or emergency contact.
In order for your child to take full advantage of all of the activities at camp, it is important that he/she gets adequate sleep and a properly balanced diet.
Medications
If your child has medication that needs to be administered during camp hours, it should be sent with an appropriate
form to the Camp Office. Please call the Youth and Teen Office at 735-8050 to obtain a form. Medications must be sent
in the original bottles with the prescribed dosage and the child’s name indicated on the label. All medications are
administered by Camp Administration Staff. Medications will not be administered unless a form has been completed. A
log is kept to record the time and dosage of medication administered. Medication and special needs must be indicated
on the camper profile and medical forms. We strongly recommend that campers who take medication during the
school year take their medication during camp.
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NO CAMPER WILL BE PERMITTED IN CAMP, EVEN FOR ONE DAY, UNLESS THEIR CAMP PAPERWORK, WITH DOCTOR
SIGNATURE AND SHOT RECORD, HAS BEEN RECEIVED. IF YOU HAVE MISPLACED YOUR FORMS, PLEASE CALL THE
YOUTH AND TEEN OFFICE AT 512-735-8050.
Behavioral Guidelines
JCC Summer Camps use positive guidance techniques including redirection, anticipation of potential problems, positive reinforcement, and encouragement while avoiding competition, comparison, or criticism. Consistent and clear rules are explained to the campers. If your child tells you of inappropriate behavior by a staff member, please notify the Camp Director or Assistant Director immediately.
Code of Honor
JCC Summer Camps maintain a Code of Honor for all members of the camp community. The code is intended as a guide for general behavior.
Cooperate, using appropriate behaviors and language.
Always work out disagreements by talking, listening, and compromising.
Respect yourself, others, staff, and property.
Everyone is responsible for making camp a better place.
Consequences for Inappropriate Behavior
All campers and parents/guardians must sign the JCC Summer Camps Code of Honor prior to a camper starting Camp. It is our goal that counselors, children, and parents work together toward good behavior and a cohesive atmosphere. However, in some cases, disciplinary measures may be necessary. "Taking a break" from the group is used on occasion as a consequence for disruptive behavior. This allows the camper time to settle down, talk with the counselor, and then return to camp activities.
Additional disciplinary measures (including removal from the camp program) may be necessary if a child inflicts physical or emotional harm on another child, is dangerous to him/herself, or is physically or verbally abusive to staff. No refunds will be made if a camper is suspended or withdrawn from camp due to inappropriate behavior.
Clothing
Campers should come dressed in clothes that enable them to participate in all camp activities, such as a cotton shirt with shorts, *close-toed shoes with socks and a cap. All items should be labeled with your child's full name. Campers should also bring a bathing suit, towel, sunscreen, and a water bottle. All campers should apply sunscreen before leaving home.
Closed toed shoes are REQUIRED at camp (no flip-flops, crocs, or open toed shoes)
Personal/Valuable Items
Campers should not bring valuable items to camp. Jewelry, iPods, cell phones, video games, trading cards, and musical instruments should be left at home. Camp cannot assume responsibility for lost items. There is no need for additional toys as our camp day is full of structured activities. Money is not needed at camp. (Tiyul campers (grades 6-9): Please refer to the Tiyul Camp information section on page 11 for exceptions to this policy).
Lost and Found
A Lost and Found is maintained in each Camp Office. All unclaimed items are kept for two weeks following camp and then donated to a charitable organization. You are welcome to visit the Lost and Found at any time.
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T-Shirts/Camper Photos
Campers receive one Camp T-shirt during the summer. Additional T-shirts (as available) can be purchased through your child’s Camp Office for $12. Group photos are taken and posted at our online gallery. Information about our Camp photo gallery will be in each camp newsletter. Camp Families will have the opportunity to view Camp pictures, save thumbnails and purchase pictures for print. Photos provide a great opportunity for campers to remember their summer camp friends. Please have your child wear his/her camp T-shirt on Picture Day, Field Trips and every Friday.
Lunch & Snacks
Each camper should bring a sack lunch and beverage with their name clearly marked on it. Lunches may NOT contain meat. Camp provides a morning snack. PM Care Campers also get an afternoon snack. All food provided by Camp is kosher. If your child forgets his or her lunch and a lunch is not brought to camp before 11:00 AM, a peanut-butter-and-jelly or cheese sandwich will be served to your child and you’ll be notified. If lunch is provided more than once, there will be a $5 charge. Please avoid food that spoils easily. We recommend placing an ice pack in your child’s lunch box. To ensure that campers meet their own parents' dietary restrictions, we ask that campers do not share their lunch with others.
Pizza Day
Each Friday is Pizza Day and ALL campers (with the exception of Golf) will enjoy pizza for lunch! Pizza lunches include cheese pizza, fruit, and drink. If your child can’t or won’t eat pizza, he/she will be provided with a peanut butter & jelly or cheese sandwich, fruit and drink. Please contact the camp office if you would prefer to pack a lunch on those days so we don’t include your child in the pizza count.
Please note any dietary restrictions on your forms and notify the Camp Office.
Lunch Suggestions
PB&J sandwich
Bagels and cheese
Baked Tofu/Tofu salad
Tortillas with cheese
Vegetarian chicken nuggets
Rice cakes with spread
Grilled cheese
Cheese w/ vegetables
Yogurt and granola
Rice
Couscous
Pastas
Veggie quiche
Egg salad/hard-boiled eggs
Sides
Carrot sticks
Celery sticks
Red pepper strips
Broccoli
Fruit
Dried fruit
Apple sauce
Cole slaw
Pickles
Potatoes
Pasta
Chips
Granola bars
Trail mix
Pudding
Jell-O snacks
Popcorn
Granola
Gratuities
Please do not give gratuities to staff. There are opportunities to honor staff through donations to the Camp Scholarship Fund, which allows less fortunate Campers to have the same great experience your child had. Please call Leslie LaBrie, 735-8074 for details.
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Camp Shalom & Camp Tiyul - Sessions IA, IB, IIA, and IIB The JCC’s Youth & Teen Department thanks you for choosing Camp Shalom, a traditional Jewish day camp with a variety of activities. The following information will help ensure that your child goes home a “happy camper.”
Camp Shalom Grades K-5
Chamudim (K), Noar (1st and 2nd), Kochavim (3rd-4th) and Giborim (5th–6th)
Our programs cater to children’s varied interests. Campers participate in everything Camp Shalom has to offer. Activities include: Athletics, music, drama, arts and crafts, nature, science, video, Israeli culture, camping skills, swim lessons, free swim, theme days, and special events. On Fridays, our camp joins together participate in our Shabbat celebration, sharing stories and music. Shabbat is for the entire family and everyone is invited to join us each Friday afternoon at 3:00 PM as we celebrate a wonderful week of learning, fun, and meeting new friends.
Staff and Safety
Camp Shalom’s Counselors and Specialists are experienced young men and women whose energy, enthusiasm, compassion, and skills help to make Camp Shalom a special place. Our staff receives extensive pre-camp orientation training in individual and group dynamics, Inclusion, First Aid and CPR, and safety and emergency procedures.
Late Nights
Noar campers have one Late Night per four-week session. Campers have an opportunity to stay until 7:00 PM and dinner is provided. Campers must be picked up promptly at 7:00 PM at the drive-thru behind the Education Building. A Late pick-up fee will be assessed for pick-ups after 7:00 PM (see page 5 for details). 2016 Yeladim Late Night Dates: Tuesday June 21 (Session IA) and Tuesday July 26 (Session IIB)
Overnights
Kochavim (3rd-4th graders) campers have one, one-night overnight per four-week session. Dinner, breakfast, and lunch the next day are provided. Campers need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow, a change of clothes, and toiletries. A complete packing list will be sent home with your child before each overnight. 2015 Shorashim Overnight Dates: Thursday, July 7 (Session IB) & Thursday, July 28 (Session IIB).
Giborim (5th-6th grade) campers have one out-of town overnight at the San Antonio JCC! Transportation, dinner, breakfast, and lunch the next day are provided. In addition, Chaverim campers get a bonus in-city overnight! For all overnights campers need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow, a change of clothes, and toiletries. A complete packing list will be sent home with your child before each overnight. 2016 Chaverim Overnight Dates: Thursday, July 7 (Session IB) and Thursday, July 21 in San Antonio (Session IIA).
Field Trips
Please refer to your camp calendar for dates. If you have any questions, please call the Camp Shalom office at 735-8050. Reminders will be sent home before each field trip.
Please see the Camp Calendar at shalomaustin.org/camps for Important Dates to Remember.
Swim Lessons
All Camp Shalom campers, K-2nd, participate in swim lessons and free swim as one of the many activities in Camp
Shalom. On the first day of lessons your child will be assessed and placed in the appropriate swim class for their swim
ability. At the end of each session, the Aquatics Department will issue a certificate and skill sheet indicating the skills
that were completed and a recommended level for future lessons. Camp Shalom campers will not swim on the first
day of camp, June 14th. This time is used for Counselors to get to know their Campers. We will swim on all other
days!
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JCC Swim lesson curriculum is founded in the principles of the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim program, which is
currently taught at the Swim School at the J. The Learn-to-Swim program teaches students the fundamentals of
proper body position as well as focusing on swim safety. For more information on swim levels and the Swim School at
the J, please visit our website at www.shalomaustin.org/swimlessons
**Please feel free to view the JCC Aquatics manual at www.shalomaustin.org/aquatics.
Camp Tiyul (7th-9th)
Tiyul Campers are on the move throughout the week, so proper preparation is essential to ensure a positive and fun experience for your camper. During the first week of each session, our campers will participate in amazing in-town field trips.. During the second week of each session, Tiyul campers will be traveling out of the city and will be staying at JCCs and cabins. Previous year’s trips included San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, Arkansas, New Orleans, and Oklahoma.
Please check the calendar with your camper at the beginning of each week for upcoming day and overnight trips.
Camp Tiyul Field Trips
On out-of-city field trips, campers may bring personal electronics for use during bus rides only. If a camper uses the personal electronic device during a scheduled activity or non-field trip day, it will be taken and returned at the end of the day.
The costs of all field trips are included in camper fees. However, there may be an occasional trip where campers may want to bring spending money (no more than $15). You will be notified at the beginning of the week if spending money is an option. We ask that campers not bring money unless it is recommended. Counselors will not be responsible for holding money or valuables.
Camp Tiyul Overnights
For overnights and out-of-town trips, campers should bring a sleeping bag and pillow, change of clothes, and toiletries. A full packing list will be sent home prior to every overnight.
• During overnights, Camp Tiyul will provide all meals beginning with Wednesday’s dinner, through the end of the overnight. If your camper has special dietary needs, please call Leslie at [email protected] or 735-8074 so we can make the appropriate accommodations.
General Rules:
Campers need to bring a lunch without meat every day during in town weeks.
Campers should bring a towel, swimsuit, hat and sunscreen every day.
Campers will be asked to sign a “Camper’s Agreement Form” at the beginning of the session. This agreement will specifically set forth Camp Tiyul’s expectations concerning appropriate behavior during camp. By signing this form, the camper will acknowledge their understanding of the camp rules and agree to abide by them.
Out of town overnights will be the only acceptable time for campers to have a cell phone. Cell phone use will only be permitted during planned call times.
Please read Director’s letter to Camp Families regarding cell phones and Internet (pages 11-12).
LITs: Leaders In Training (Entering Grade 10):
This fun and exciting program is designed to develop leadership and camp counseling skills through hands-on experience. Under the guidance of Camp Shalom staff, LITs work hands-on with younger Camp Shalom groups. Each
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week, LITs participate in teambuilding exercises. LITs also participate in all Camp Shalom field trips. LITs meet with Nick frequently for training and opportunities to process their experiences.
Inclusion Program
JCC Summer Camps continue to offer our national award-winning inclusion program for children with special needs. Our goal with each child is to be inclusive, proactive, and supportive. We provide services to meet the needs of campers with varying abilities to the most comprehensive extent possible. We trust parents will inform us of their child’s individual needs (physical, emotional, cognitive, or sensory) as soon as they are able, to allow appropriate planning time. JCC Summer Camp has on staff an Inclusion Specialist who will work with our Inclusion Counselors and provide additional support to all camp staff. The deadline to submit the Inclusion Application is March 1, 2016. Please note that receipt of application does not guarantee placement. Please contact Jessica at [email protected] or 512-735-8036 for more information or questions.
Director's Letter to Camp Families
Dear JCC Summer Camp Parents,
We have always taken the safety and well-being of our campers (your children) very seriously. After all, giving your children over to the care of other people is perhaps the greatest act of trust you as a parent can engage in. As a camp staff, we aim to do everything we humanly can to earn and keep that trust. We also know we cannot do this without your help. With more and more children using the Internet, cell phones and other technologies at younger ages, we appeal to you as parents to partner with us to ensure that your children continue to have the safest, most wholesome experience with us at Camp as possible.
Please read our letter carefully. It will help you understand the challenges some technologies pose to the continued health and safety of our camp community. Please also review and then read to your child the enclosed policies regarding the Internet, social networking sites and exchanging contact information with their Counselors. As always, we invite you to call us if you have any questions or concerns about any of these issues.
Cell Phones
As you know we have a “no cell phone” policy at camp. Aside from the fact that cell phones are expensive and can get lost or stolen and that the physical camp environment is not kind to such items, there is a fundamental problem with campers having cell phones at camp, and that is trust. When children come to camp they, and you, are making a leap of faith, temporarily transferring their primary care from you as their parents to their Counselors and our staff.
This is one of the growth-producing, yet challenging aspects of camp. As children learn to trust other caring adults, they grow and learn, little by little, to solve some of their own challenges. We believe this emerging independence is one of the greatest benefits of camp. It is one important way your child develops greater resilience. Contacting you by phone essentially means they have not made this transition. It prevents us from getting to problems that may arise and addressing them quickly. Sending a cell phone to camp is like saying to your child that you as the parent haven’t truly come to peace with the notion of them being away from you and in our care.
We agree to tell you if your child is experiencing a challenge in their adjustment to camp. You can help by talking with your child before they leave for camp and telling them that there is always someone they can reach out to, whether it is their Counselor, a trusted Specialist, a Unit Head, or the Director. We are all here to help, but if you don’t trust us, your children certainly won’t either.
Digital Photographs
Another drawback of having cell phones at camp is many of them have built-in cameras. It has happened at some camps around the country that children have secretly taken photographs of other campers or staff during changing or showering times and later uploaded those images on to the Internet. (If you belong to a health club, chances are it has a “no cell phone” policy). To lessen the possibility of this happening we have decided to ban all digital cameras and suggest that if your child wants pictures from camp, that they bring a disposable film camera.
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We take photographs during the summer, which are available for viewing online. Information on how to access these photos is included in our email newsletter. Camp families can view pictures, save thumbnails, and order prints. Please help us maintain a safe environment by explaining this to your child (see our note below about “Policies for Campers”). You should know that any camper that takes a compromising photograph of another camper or staff member and uploads it on the Internet or makes it public in any way may be subject to dismissal from Camp Shalom or may not be allowed to return. If the law is broken, the appropriate authorities will be notified.
Cyber-Bullying and Harassment
It has happened at camps around the country that a few campers have sent rude, demeaning, intimidating or vulgar emails or IMs to other campers; and some campers have created false screen names to harass members of the camp community or spread false and damaging information about them. Most Internet communication is fun, positive and one important way campers stay in touch with their friends. Our “Policy for Campers” which we are asking you to read over and then read with your child, covers our response to this problem. In addition, we have outlined steps you or your child should take should they receive an abusive, demeaning or otherwise threatening or inappropriate Internet communication.
Being familiar with these steps is part of the overall safety and healthy practice you should have in place with your child if they are online, regardless of whether they attend camp or not. Sharing them with you is one way we felt we could support your effort to protect your children whether they are at camp or not.
Your Kids, Our Staff, After Camp
Our pledge is to put your children in the company of the most trustworthy and capable young adults we can hire---Counselors who are well suited to the task of caring for our campers. The effort we put into screening and selecting our staff is part of that pledge.
Our staff members work with your children in the context of a visible, well-scrutinized environment that has many built-in checks and balances. Counselors are supervised by full-time staff and guided by clear, firm policies regarding behavior. Their actions are also visible to co-workers and campers. By hiring them we are not recommending them as babysitters, nannies, or child companions outside of camp. In general we discourage our staff from having contact with your children after camp since we cannot supervise it. We hire our staff for the camp season. We do not take responsibility for their behavior off-season or after hours.
As a parent you are, or course, free to make your own choice in this matter. While we cannot keep you from allowing your child to visit with one of our staff members, in doing so you take full responsibility. We also know that many children exchange contact information (e.g. e-mail address, profile names, cell phone numbers) with Counselors without our or your specific awareness or permission. We recommend that you, as the parent, supervise your child’s online activities just as you do other aspects of their life in your home, and oversee any off-season contact our staff members and your child has. You take full responsibility to oversee any contact that results.
Working Together to Keep Your Children Safe
We see many positive and exciting ways for youngsters to enjoy the healthy benefits of the Internet and other technologies. As advocates for children we want to work with you to keep those experiences safe, healthy, and positive. That is why we have taken the time to write these policies, include some resources for you, and urge you to talk with your children---both about camp and their online activity in general.
Camp Shalom and Camp Tiyul Policy for Campers and the Internet
We have asked your parents to go over some policies we have developed about the Internet and other important issues so that everyone has the best experience at camp as possible.
1. We view email, instant messages (IMs) and social networking sites, like Facebook and MySpace, as positive ways for you to express yourself and keep in touch with your friends. As a camper at Camp Shalom and Camp Tiyul, you have the right to exchange email or IMs with other campers and invite other campers to be on your “friends” list in any way that you and your parents see fit.
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2. When it comes to exchanging contact with anyone on our staff, however, your parents must take full responsibility for you to do that. This includes giving or getting an email address, IM, cell phone number, social networking profile, weblog or any other Internet contact. (We tell this to our staff during orientation.) It’s not that we don’t think your relationships with your Counselors are important. They are! It’s just that, once they leave camp, we cannot take responsibility for what happens between you and them—only your parents can. There is a parent communication permission form which is available upon request, which your parents must fill out before a Counselor can give you any contact information or take any contact information from you.
3. Regarding email, IMs and comments you might make to other campers on their social networking site, we ask you:
keep what you say positive and respectful of staff and campers alike
not to use obscenities, vulgar, or sexual language
not to say mean or threatening things to or about other campers or staff
not to post pictures online that would embarrass or violate anyone’s privacy
not to pose as another camper online or spread false information about anyone or say damaging or threatening things to or about anyone
not to use a web site or blog or email to talk about things that are against camp policy, like using drugs or alcohol or bullying or sexual topics
4. Most Internet communication is positive, and that’s great! In the rare case where there might be any negative messages to other campers or staff, our policy is to call the parents of campers who send those messages and share the content with them.
5. We will use any legal means available, including contacting the police and the FBI, to attack the source of any offending or threatening Internet communication if we need to.
6. Any camper who violates any of our policies regarding the Internet or other communication might have to leave camp, might not be able to come back to camp, and might even have to answer to the police or other law enforcement authorities.
7. We want you to be safe on the Internet. If you receive a threatening e-mail, IM, or message on your personal web site---one that is mocking, uses vulgar or harassing language--here is what you should do:
Do not respond to the message or retaliate, because it might encourage the sender or get you into trouble.
If possible, record the message on to your hard drive.
Print a copy of the message, then close it but do not delete it.
Tell your parents about it and have them notify the local police or, if necessary, contact your Internet service provider (like Yahoo, AOL, Earthlink, Gmail, etc).
If you suspect that the sender is from camp, please call us immediately
You or your parents can also contact Pedowatch (www.pedowatch.com) or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (www.nemec.org).
Camp Shalom and Camp Tiyul are meant to be fun, safe and happy places for all of us! We need your help to keep the way people from communicate with one another positive and in the spirit of camp---a way that makes everyone feels safe.
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One-Week Specialty Camps General Specialty Camp Information
Campers should bring a lunch without meat everyday except on Fridays.
Camp provides a morning snack. All snacks are kosher.
Fridays are pizza day. All camps (except Rec Quest) enjoy free cheese pizza, salad and a drink. (gluten-free available)
For camps that have swim time, please pack a swimming suit, towel, and sunscreen every day. All items should be labeled with your child's full name.
Please refer to the General Camp Information section for drop-off and pick-up information as well as AM and PM care and other important information.
Sports Camps Thank you for choosing the JCC Summer Sports Camps. Please read the following information to ensure that your child is a “Happy Camper”. We look forward to meeting you and your child.
Staff
We pride ourselves on having an exceptional staff returning each summer. Our staff includes certified teachers, former collegiate athletes, as well as young men and women pursuing degrees in Physical Education. Members of our staff have over 30 years of collective experience working with children. All of our counselors are CPR certified.
Philosophy
Our goal is to ensure that each camper has FUN, in a safe environment, while building the confidence to continue participating in sports at any level they desire. Through the use of age appropriate activities and motivational incentives, campers develop a better understanding of the sport and a sense of identity within a team setting.
T-shirts/Photos
Campers receive one Camp T-shirt during the summer. Additional T-shirts (as available) can be purchased through the Sports Camp Office for $12. Group photos are taken and available to parents on our password protected website. Please have your child wear his/her camp shirt on Fridays, Field trips and Picture Day. Refer to your camp calendar for specific dates.
Clothing/Equipment
Campers should wear tennis shoes, shorts and a light colored t- shirt to camp each day. Your camper’s backpack should include: kosher lunch, sunscreen, cap, towel, and swimsuit. If campers wear cleats for a particular sport, please send a second pair of shoes, suitable for the gym. Please do not send your camper in sandals. Label all belongings with first and last names. All athletic equipment will be provided. Each camper will receive a JCC Summer Camp water bottle. Water bottles are kept at camp to ensure each camper has a water bottle. Water bottles are sent home with your camper on the last day of camp.
Swimming
Campers enjoy free swim every day, including the first day of a new session. Counselors join campers at the pool where they can swim, have a snack and take a break to play board games under the shaded pavilion. Campers can wear their suits to camp each morning or they can change in the bathrooms at the pool. Counselors monitor the
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bathrooms. Please send a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen in your child’s backpack every day. Label all of their belongings with first and last name. Campers must change back into their clothes after swimming.
Lunch & Snack
Campers bring their own kosher lunch each day. We provide a kosher snack in the morning and in the afternoon. Please let us know if your child has any special dietary needs or allergies. Campers eat lunch outside at the shaded playscape picnic area. Friday is pizza day, when campers enjoy cheese pizza, fruit, and a drink. Please refer to the calendar for specific Pizza Days. Pizza day is not available for Rec-Quest Campers
Overnights
Basketball Camp Overnights/Late night is definitely a highlight! Past overnights have include, dinner at Mr. Gattis, an evening swim, big-screen TV movies, team building activities and more. Campers sleep indoors in the Community Hall. 1st& 2nd grade basketball campers are invited to stay for a late night, ending at 7:00pm, 3rd - 6th grade campers have a choice of staying for a late night or overnight.
The Color War overnight includes 2nd – 6th graders and will include team competitions, hotdog and veggie burger cook-out, swimming and more!
Field Trips
Our Maccabi, Jr. Maccabi and Challenger Soccer Camps will take a break from the heat and enjoy an action-packed day at Main Event! Activities include bowling, Laser Tag, and Rock Climbing. More details coming soon.
Late Arrivals and Early Pick-ups
Late arrivals must go to the Sports Camp Office to sign in. Please contact Jen Reed at, 735-8206 or Angelo Florez, 735-8208, in advance about late arrivals
If you need to pick up your child early, please call the Sports Camp Office at 735-8208 or 735-8206 and send a note with your child for his/her counselor. Please meet your child in the Welcome Desk Lobby for pick-up, allowing enough time for your child to be escorted to you.
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Summer Camp 2016 Gymnastics Camp, Cheerleading Camp, Tiny Tumblers Camp
Drop-off and Pick-Up
Core-Day Campers should be dropped off in the drive-thru behind the Education Building between 8:45 and 9:00am.
We will head straight to the playscape, and then to the gym, so if you are late, please park and walk your child to the
gymnasium in the Sports and Fitness Area of the JCC. Pick-up is at 3:45PM for Core-Day Campers at the Education
Circle Drive, located at the back of the Education Building. Full Day Campers: Please refer to page 5 of this manual.
What to wear and bring:
Campers can wear a t-shirt with gym shorts or a leotard. We will have leotards and shorts available for purchase at
camp. Campers need to wear shoes that they can take on and off easily on their own.
Campers should bring the following LABLELED items to camp each day: kosher lunch, swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen.
All items should be placed in a backpack that they can carry on their own.
Parent Communication:
One week prior to camp, you will receive an email with all of the information for the week as well as your child’s group.
You will also receive nightly e-mails telling you what your child did, pictures from the day, and what to expect for the
following day. If you are not receiving e-mails or want to add an additional email, please e-mail [email protected].
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Campus Map
