Arriving at Camp

Summer camp in America is an amazing experience, but it can also be intense. Make sure to take care of yourself this summer.

Top Tips For When You Arrive at Camp

• Get to know your surroundings
• Don’t be afraid to get involved
• Get to know your co-counselors
• Contact your parents - let them know you’ve arrived safely

Training

When you arrive at camp you will have training specific to your role at camp and training specific to camp rules, policies, and how best to equip you with the tools you need in order to be successful in your role at camp. You may be slightly overwhelmed at the beginning, and that’s ok, just make sure you’re speaking to people about it and know we’re always on hand to help. It can take up to 2 weeks to fully settle in your new environment. This is completely normal and your adventure starts with stepping out of your comfort zone.

Time Off/Wellbeing

Each camp is different in the way they structure time off, so check in with your camp about your time and days off. If it doesn’t sound right then don’t be afraid to ask your supervisor or contact the Camp Leaders US office.

Camp is great fun, but it is also extremely exhausting and you do not have much time to yourself. Be sure to take time out for yourself, during off periods at camp and on your day off.

Summer camp can be an intense environment and we want to make sure that you’re taken care of not just physically but emotionally too. If you feel you’re overwhelmed, take the time to speak to someone or give us a call to check in with you.

Keep hydrated at all times, drink lots of water. If you have any specific dietary requirements or concerns, then make sure to speak to your supervisor at camp before you arrive.

Days off may look different this summer due to COVID-19 measures, but camp will still have great opportunities for you to unwind, relax and enjoy your time off.

Rules and Regulations

Following the rules and regulations is essential to ensuring you have a great summer. All camps will have their own rules, policies and philosophies, so just make sure you abide by these and pay close attention to them during your staff training.

Alcohol

The legal drinking age in the US is 21 and the authorities take underage drinking very seriously. Camps have very strict policies on alcohol. Familiarize yourself with these and follow the rules at all times.

Abuse

This is a wide topic but essentially refers to the mistreatment of a person in a physical, sexual, emotional or neglectful way. Your camp must provide you with its own policies and procedures regarding this, so listen and engage during staff training so that you can play your part in abuse prevention.

Illegal Drugs

If you are found possessing/supplying illegal drugs of any kind, you will be fired without question and will be reported to the police. It is likely that you will face imprisonment, and ultimately deportation. In states where Marijuana is now legal, refer to your camp contract and understand that camps have implemented a zero-tolerance policy of Marijuana usage in states where it has been legalized.

Child Protection

Camp Leaders are committed to working in a way that ensures that children and vulnerable adults never experience abuse of any kind. We require all participants to understand that any inappropriate behavior towards children or vulnerable adults, will be reported by the camp to the law enforcement authorities.

Poor Performance

If you are prepared to work hard, learn and improve then this should not be an issue. Be prepared, punctual and care about your job. If you are not clear by the end of your staff training about what the expectations are, then just ask. This won’t be perceived as a sign of weakness - it will show that you care about doing a good job. If you were hired for a specific activity role at camp, ensure you have brushed up on your skills before you arrive at camp.

Smoking

The majority of camps do not allow smoking.