Summer Q&A

What about severe weather, medical or other emergencies?
Emergency procedures have been developed through collaboration with our risk management consultant and their administrative staff.  Parents a receive a handbook with program policies.  Sites are equipped with phones and necessary first aid and emergency supplies.  Parents must provide at least one, preferably local, emergency contact, and should inform all emergency contacts that AFTER SCHOOL may contact them.

What training does staff receive?
Staff are trained in safety regulations, emergency procedures and communication, behavior management techniques, child abuse prevention, appropriate  staff and camper behavior, and specific procedures for supervision and leadership for the various settings and skills involved in the program.

How does AFTER SCHOOL Summer Day Camp handle homesickness and other adjustment issues?
Prevention is the best medicine.  Staff are intentional about welcoming campers, “breaking the ice,” informing campers about what is planned, building community and fostering friendships.  Campers will be engaged in fun activities throughout the day.  If a camper experiences homesickness or adjustment difficulties, staff will offer comfort and help the camper set attainable goals.

What will my child need to bring to camp each day?
A list of what to bring to camp will be included with your confirmation letter.  Themes or units with specific equipment requirements are noted in the descriptions. Children are discouraged from bringing personal items beyond what is needed for the camp day. AFTER SCHOOL is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged personal property, including  clothing.

Does the camp provide sunscreen and insect repellent?
AFTER SCHOOL will provide Rocky Mountain SPF 30 sunscreen and Cutter All Family Pump Spray, 7% Deet.  The health history form includes an authorization for the application of sunscreen and insect repellent.  If your child requires a different strength or brand of sunscreen or insect repellent you must complete an authorization to administer medication form for the brand and strength of sunscreen and/or insect repellent you provide.

What is the staff to camper ratio?
The maximum staff/camper ratio for 5-6 year olds is 1:12.  The maximum staff/camper ratio for campers 7 and older is 1:18. Each group is led by a camp specialist, however, camp counselors provide additional support and supervision that allows for lower ratios for specific groups and activities.

How does AFTER SCHOOL handle special needs?
Each registration that indicates that a child has special needs or other health concerns will be reviewed to determine necessary accommodations that will best meet the needs of the individual child in an effort to provide a safe and successful environment for every child.  AFTER SCHOOL camp management staff will work with parents to create an accommodation plan that meets the needs of the child and the program.  This plan will be shared with staff as necessary.  We acknowledge that AFTER SCHOOL Summer Day Camp may not meet the individual needs of all children and families enrolled.

How are behavioral and disciplinary problems handled?
The first week of a child’s attendance in the program is probationary.  If it is found that a child is experiencing difficulty due to a special need or inappropriate behavior, the camp staff will work with the child and family to help keep the child in the camp program.  However, AFTER SCHOOL reserves the right to remove a child from the program upon one week’s notice if it is determined that an individual child’s behavior is considered too disruptive, or if the child has needs that cannot be accommodated within the normal staffing pattern.  Should the safety of the child, staff or other campers be jeopardized, immediate termination of enrollment may be necessary.

How are campers supervised during swimming activities?
Safety is our first priority when swimming.  Campers swim with a buddy and are closely supervised by trained lifeguards and all camp staff. Buddy checks are called frequently.  You will also be asked to choose the appropriate swimming level for your child on the swim permission form. If you have any questions about swimming do not hesitate to contact us.

How do we get more information and what if we have other questions?
Please feel free to contact us at the office any time with questions or concerns.  Once registered for camp, parents will receive a confirmation packet with valuable information about camp, including camp policies.  During the summer, the sign-in area at camp will have important information including notices, reminders, weekly activity plans and field trip schedules.  The directors and staff on site are also available to answer your questions and address your concerns.

[back to top]