Getting Ready

Girl Scouts of Western Rivers Council - Oregon

Camp...Great Stuff, Great Staff, Great Summers!

As a parent, what are some questions you should ask before you select a camp for your child?

What is the ratio of staff to campers?
Do all staff have references and a criminal background check completed before they start work?
What certifications do the specialty staff have? (Waterfront, Target Sports, Boating...)
In all buildings used for sleeping are there at least two exits?
In case of emergency, who provides medical treatment?
If the camp allows firearms, are they required to be stored in a locked cabinet?
Does the camp have insurance?
Is the camp accredited by any organizations? The American Camping Association is a private, non-profit educational organization with members in all 50 states and several foreign countries. Check out their website for more ideas..... www.ACAcamps.org

As a parent, how can you help make this a positive experience?

Visit a camp open house, if offered.
Be honest when you are completing the camper information forms...the staff will be better prepared if you let them know the skills and physical abilities of your child.
If there has been a change in your child’s health between the time you completed the camp forms and they went to camp, indicate the changes.
Go over the camp rules with your child when you receive the camp information packet.
Call your emergency contact and let them know you have them listed on your campers paperwork!

Have a great and safe summer!

Return To Top

Getting Ready for Camp
Camp is a fun and exciting experience where girls can learn independence and responsibility outside the family environment. Girls are surrounded by a safe, supportive, environment. However, for some girls camp can be challenging, because of homesickness, a problem at home, or a feeling of not fitting in.

Here are some tips for preparing your camper for camp.

	Read books about going to camp like "Off to Camp" by Myra Pravda.
	Come to the Open House and meet the staff and see the units.
	"Practice going to camp" by having your camper spend a weekend at a friend or relatives to practice taking caring for herself.
	Talk about homesickness and that it is natural and some ways to work through the anxious feelings.
	Involve her in the decision to go to camp and emphasize "going" rather than "sending" to camp.
	Talk about living and working with others. At camp we practice living the Girl Scout promise and law in our actions. The camp community is like a big family and we expect girls to respect themselves, others and the environment.
	Put notes in her luggage, send mail (send a few early so they are there for her or e-mails), give the counselors pre-written mail to pass out each day when you drop her off. Remember that these should be positive and encouraging of all the fun she is having.
	If you have concerns or if there is something that we should know (a recent change in your family, including moving, serious illness, death, divorce, etc.) please include this information on the "Share your Camper" form, and/or call the Camp Director. Return To Top

This page last modified on May 12, 2008.