1 All Camps 2014 Parent Manual Jewish Community Center of Allentown nd 702 N. 22 Street Allentown, PA 18104 JCC Camp Kochavim in Center Valley 5831 Vera Cruz Road Center Valley, PA 18034 Phone: 610-435-3571 Fax: 610-435-2859 www.allentownjcc.org 2 Table of Contents Camp Staff, Dates and Hours Page 3 Welcome 4 Camp Forms 5 Getting Ready for Camp 5 Items to Bring on a Daily Basis 5 Camp T-shirts 5 Labeling and Lost and Found 6 Absenteeism 6 Staff 6 Family Visitation 6 Communication 6 Safety 7 Court Restrictions 7 Health and Safety 7-8 Contagious Diseases 8 Dispensing of Medication 8 Emergency Treatment 8 Insects and Wood Ticks 9 Heat Policy 9 Rainy Day Procedures 9 Food and Lunch 9-11 Daily Activities 11 Sports 11 Swimming 11 Behavioral Guidelines and Consequences of Inappropriate Behavior 12 Personal/Valuable Items 12 Cell Phones 12 Digital Photographs 12-13 Working Together to Keep Your Children Safe 13 Campers and the Internet: Cyber Bullying and the Internet 13 Assumption of Risk 14 Closing Remarks 14 Just for JCC Camp Kochavim in Center Valley 15-19 Just for Camp Jr. 20 Just for Stagemaker Camps 21-22 3 Information for all Sports and Aquatic Specialty Camps are incorporated into the general information. Camp Staff Camp Dates and Hours No Camp Friday, July 4 Barrie Saias JCC Camp Kochavim in Center Valley Director 610.435.3571 ext. 180 bsaias@lvjcc.org Camp Office: campjcc@lvjcc.org Camp Phone: 610.967.4750 Camp Nurse: 610.967.4814 Camp Pool: 610.967.0750 Summer Camp Office Hours Monday-Friday 7:30am-6:00pm Terrence Baker Camp Jr. Director 610.435.3571 ext. 132 tbaker@lvjcc.org Pam Guischard ECE/Camp Office Manager 610.435.3571 ext. 114 pguischard@lvjcc.org Terrence Baker, JCC Recreation and Fitness Director Future Legends Tennis Camp and jHoops Basketball Camp Director 610.435.3571 ext. 132 tbaker@lvjcc.org Jodi Lovenwirth JCC Aquatics Director Lightnings Swim Camp Director 610.435.3571 ext. 118 jlovenwirth@lvjcc.org Brenda Finberg Director of Children’s Services 610.435.3571 ext. 121 bfinberg@lvjcc.org Jessica Rofe, Broadway Boot Camp Director Sarah Perlin, Jungle Book the Musical Director Susan Chase, Beatlemania Director JCC Camp Kochavim in Center Valley June 16-August 8 Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm Extended Care at the JCC Monday-Friday 7:30am-8:30am and 4:30pm-6:00pm Camp Jr. June 16-August 8 Monday-Friday 9:00am-1:00pm Extended Care at ECE Monday-Friday 7:30am-9:00am and 1:00pm-6:00pm Future Legends Tennis Camp August 11-15 Monday-Friday 9:00am-1:00pm Extended Care with The Zone Monday-Friday 7:30am-9:00am and 1:00pm-6:00pm jHoops Basketball Camp August 18-22 Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm Extended Care with The Zone Monday-Friday 7:30am-9:00am and 4:00pm-6:00pm Lightnings Swim Camp August 11-15 and 18-22 Monday- Friday 9:00am-1:00pm Extended Care with The Zone Monday-Friday 7:30am-9:00am and 1:00pm-6:00pm Stagemakers Broadway Boot Camp June 23-27 Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm The Jungle Book the Musical June 30-July 18 Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm Beatlemania July 21-25 Monday-Friday 9:00am-4:00pm Extended Care with The Zone Monday-Friday 7:30am-9:00am and 4:00pm- 6:00pm 4 Welcome! May 2014 Dear Camp Families, Thank you for the opportunity to provide your child(ren) with a wonderful summer camp experience. We are excited to work with our camp parents to ensure a positive camp experience for each child. We will be continuing to create many great traditions as well as introduce new programs and experiences, delivered in an optimal style combining instruction and fun. Our daily camp routine will include a comprehensive array of activities, most of which are led by skilled instructors and coaches, such as aquatics, arts and crafts, music, nature, soccer, basketball, baseball, tennis, Israeli life, cooking, Judaic culture and more. The entire day will be guided and enriched by the wonderful loving and caring general counselor staff, who ensure the campers emotional and physical safety and development. Relationships that evolve between peers as well as counselors and campers are unique. Camp provides campers a secure yet independent experience as they are poised to grow and learn not only activity skill but life skills. It is our goal to make this summer’s experience a safe and enjoyable one. Calls to the director and staff will be returned after the camp day in most cases as the leadership is out around camp amongst the campers and staff, overseeing and participating in the day’s program. We have prepared this Parent Manual to help guide you through the process of getting you and your child(ren) ready for an exceptional camp experience in a safe, nurturing environment. New this year we are providing an All Camp Parent Manual, with specific subsections for policies specific to certain camps. Please call or stop by any time. Our door is always open. We are pleased to address your questions and comments. We are looking forward to sharing an exciting summer with your family. Sincerely, Carol Barrie Terrence Jodi Brenda Carol Kranitz Executive Director Barrie Saias Terrence Baker Jodi Lovenwirth Brenda Finberg 5 Camp Forms In order to prepare for your child’s arrival, we ask that you complete the following forms and return them directly to Stephanie Bennett, Camp Registrar, by June 1, 2014. Campers will not be permitted to attend any camp without all forms completed. A current photograph of your child Child Health Report Medical Administration Form Topical Cream/Sunscreen Form One Call Form, our phone messaging service for urgent matters or when up-to-the-minute info is appropriate to keep parents and campers informed. All camp forms are available on our website at www.allentownjcc.org or at the Welcome Desk. Getting Ready For Camp Camp is a fun and safe place to be. Though most children adjust easily to the camp experience, some may need a little encouragement from home as you prepare for the first day. First time campers might benefit from the following ideas: Talk about the wonderful activities and camp as a safe place during the day. Talk with other children who have been at camp before. Keep the night before the first day of camp as calm as possible. A good night’s sleep goes a long way towards a positive attitude. Give your camper a warm but brief send-off. Send a note in his/her lunch or backpack telling your child you know they are having a great day. On your camper’s first day, please send along an extra change of clothes including socks, underwear, shirt and shorts, and a sweatshirt for an emergency or sudden change of weather. Place these items in a marked, zipper plastic bag to be left at camp. Remember to replace these items at camp should your child bring them home when they use them. Items Needed on a Daily Basis Label all belongings with a permanent marker. Daily camp clothing should be comfortable and allow children to safely participate in all activities including getting dirty, if necessary. Camp is a good place to wear old clothing. Wear a swim suit under clothing (All camps except Stagemakers), and remember to pack a towel. Hats are welcome. Sneakers and Socks- provide the best protection for your child’s feet. Packing a labeled water bottle every day helps us cut down on cups we use each summer, helping us to do a better job at conserving our resources. Freeze the bottle overnight. Sunscreen removes permanent ink off of non-porous surfaces, so consider using labels and covering with clear packing tape. Sunscreen- Please apply sunscreen to your child before coming to camp. Our staff will be instructed to assist your child when reapplying sunscreen. This is done routinely after all aquatic activities. 6 Camp T-shirts All campers will receive a complimentary camp T-shirt. We request that all campers wear their Camp Tshirts every Friday. Additional shirts will be available for purchase. Labeling and Lost and Found Camps focus on your child’s positive experience at camp. Permanent labeling of all articles (clothing, towels, baseball gloves and other sports equipment, goggles, sneakers, sunscreen) will help us return “lost and found” items. Parents are welcome to stop by a camp office and check for any lost items. Items left at the end of the camp season will be at the JCC until 9.1.14. At that time all unclaimed items will be donated to Nearly New. Camps are not responsible for lost objects. Absenteeism If your child will not be attending camp on a given day, please inform the JCC, 610.435.3571 or Center Valley Office , 610.967.4750 by 8:00AM. There are NO make-up days or refunds for absence due to illness or other reasons. When leaving a phone message, please talk slowly and clearly. State the child’s name, bus letter if applicable, and division at camp. Staff Our specialists and counselors include our professional early childhood staff, teachers, college graduates, college students, and high school students. The health and safety of the campers is the primary concern of all staff. Our staff members participate in a training program prior to the camp season, where they receive training on such topics as child development, program planning, leadership and health and safety. Swimming pool staff receive extensive programmatic and safety training in their respective area. Family Visitation All camps have an open door policy. For security purposes, visitors (including parents) must first report to the Welcome Center in Center Valley or at the JCC they will receive a required visitor’s pass. Indoors at the JCC, an escort will be provided to visit camps. This is intended for the protection of our campers and staff. Communication In an effort to provide useful and pertinent information efficiently this summer, camps will continue to communicate with parents primarily by e-mail. All parents will receive e-communications to the address they provided upon registration. Parents will receive camp reminders, newsletters, Shutterfly picture information, or notifications that highlight upcoming events and specialties. More than just telling parents what’s happening, camp reminders will also tell parents what their camper should bring to camp for a specific activity or event and will also notify parents of weather conditions that may result in the modification of the camp day’s activities. We invite you to encourage your child to try new things and to let their counselor know when they need extra help or encouragement. Please consider email rather than paper notes if at all possible and please date all notes. 7 Both parents in a family are important to us. Therefore, if your child/children is/are part of a single parent or blended family, please speak with the Camp Director personally to ensure that information is available to both parents in a prompt and efficient manner. Safety The Jewish Community Center of Allentown and All Camps have an Emergency Action Plan to address a variety of situations which may arise during the camp day. Each situation has its own set of procedures and guidelines to be followed to ensure the safest place for your child’s summer experience. Court Restrictions If parents are divorced or legally separate and one parent has been granted sole custody, controlled care, or restricted visitation, the specific parent must submit a copy of the Court Order or Visitation Agreement so that we can have it on file in the Camp Office. Without this notification, the Jewish Community Center cannot be held responsible for releasing a child to a parent. Health and Safety It is very important to all of us that campers are in good health. Our primary objective at camp is to provide the safest environment for our campers each and every day. Key staff are certified in first-aid and CPR and the Aquatics Staff is on call if any child should show signs of ill health at any time during the day, he/she is taken to the office, in case of serious injury or illness, his/her parents are notified. 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. In case of emergency, our closest hospital emergency room is Lehigh Valley Health Network– Cedar Crest. We will continue our efforts to reach a parent or emergency contact. In order for your child to take full advantage of all the activities at camp, it is important that he/she gets adequate sleep and a properly balanced diet. Parents must have a reachable phone number in case of an emergency. If the staff determines a child unacceptable for camp, you must pick up your child at camp. The child must be free from all conditions in order to be able to return to camp (i.e. fever-free without the use of Tylenol/Advil for 24 hours). JCC Camp Kochavim in Center Valley has a nurse on the premises. The following procedures have been established and will be in effect for the camp season. These policies will allow for optimum health and safety in all areas of camp, especially for our campers. The following are general health concerns requiring your contact should the issue occur at camp. The camper will remain in the infirmary or director’s office until a parent arrives and may require absence from camp until symptoms of the illness are treated or gone. Contact your Health Care Provider and keep your child(ren) home as needed for the following: Children with Diarrhea (defined by 3 very loose stools in one hour) Any productive cough or continuous coughing Children verbally complaining of a sore throat or earache Vomiting 8 Flu-like Symptoms Children being treated with antibiotics for the first 24hrs. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) Any contagious rash (Chicken Pox, Impetigo, Measles, Ringworm, etc.) Children may not return to camp until all pox are scabbed over, or with a note from the doctor. Children with a temperature of 100.4 orally (99.4 armpit) must remain home until they have been without a fever for 24 hours without Tylenol or other fever-lowering medication. Children with any discharge from the eyes or nose which is green in color. Pediculosis (Head Lice) Head lice: Contact physician and JCC immediately. Head lice are tiny tan-colored bugs that are easily transmitted through eggs (nits). The nits are tiny, oval-shaped and grayish-white. They adhere to the hair strands about 1.2 to 1 inch from the scalp. The noticeable symptom of lice is itching (and a child’s constant scratching). Treatment involves a fairly simple shampooing and combing with an over-the-counter kit or other remedies. Although it is rare to have a lice infestation, it can occur. Children with head lice will be sent home for treatment and all other parents will be notified and asked to double-check their children. In the rare instance that this occurs, we will issue guidelines for eradicating these organisms. No one really knows where lice originate; they are not a reflection of uncleanness as was assumed in the past. In the event of an occurrence of head lice at the JCC, we will do head checks on all the children and staff. A child treated for head lice may not return to the JCC until treatment has taken place and all nits have been removed from the hair and with a doctor’s note confirming this. This is to reduce or prevent “survivor re-infestation”. The Director/Camp Manager needs to check your child prior to returning to camp. Staff will check your child’s hair in a soothing, caring manner and will give final approval for return to camp. In case of lice diagnosis at camp, a child will be sent home immediately. The child may not ride the bus or return to camp until they have been checked by the Camp Office Manager/Director. Please make arrangements with the camp office to have your child checked. Contagious Diseases Parents will be notified in writing if their child is exposed to a potentially contagious disease while at camp. Camps require that parents notify the camp if their child has been exposed to, or has a contagious disease such as chicken pox, head lice, conjunctivitis, etc. Dispensing of Medication Administration of any medication or nutritional supplements must have prior written parent authorization. Prescription medication will only be administered on the written order of the child’s physician and must be in the original container with the child’s name, the name of the drug and directions for its administration and storage on the label. (If you need a vial for home and camp, ask your pharmacist for an extra-labeled vial.) Medications will only be dispensed according to the doctor’s instructions. A parent or legal guardian must deliver daily medication to any camp prior to the camper’s first day of camp. It is the responsibility of the parent/legal guardian to get all medication to the ECE/Camp Office. Medication is not allowed to be transported by campers. Please provide the exact amount of medication needed for your child’s full stay at Camp. All non-prescription oral medications (cough syrup, Tylenol, etc.) or nutritional supplements also require completion of the Medication Administration Form AND require the written authorization/signature of the child’ physician, along with that of the parent/guardian. Consents are valid for one year. Parents must advise the Camp Director and/or Office Manager if campers are not receiving regular medications, if they are starting/changing regular medications from their year round or summer routine, or are discontinuing medications. This is true for short term prescription medications as well. 9 Emergency Treatment Key camp staff is trained in CPR and first aid and equipped and prepared to administer basic emergency first aid. Commercial medicinal preparations and bandages for bruises, insect bites, etc. are applied externally when necessary. In case of more serious illness or injury, the parents are notified. If your child is highly allergic to insect/bee stings, please be sure to make that clear in writing. Please provide suitable medication from your doctor (i.e. EpiPen, antihistamine, etc.) Insects and Ticks As in all outdoor activities, insects can be a nuisance. Two common problems are the ticks and flying insects. Wood ticks are critters with a flat, round body with four legs on each side. They attach themselves to people by embedding their heads into human skin, and they may cause infection if not removed promptly. 1. Please check your child when he/she returns home at the end of the day. 2. To remove, if not well attached, just pick off. If attached, remove by pulling tick gently while slowly turning. If any body parts of the tick remain, see a doctor. 3. Use anti-bacterial lotion on the site to prevent infection. For other insect bites, use a commercial lotion that is safe for your child or contact your physician. Heat Policy If extreme heat is a factor at the camp, campers will keep hydrated by liquid refreshment, activities will be conducted in shaded areas, and the JCC indoor facilities will be used. Rainy Day Procedures In the event of a severely inclement weather day, camp will be held inside The Jewish Community Center. Food/Lunch All camps makes every effort to adhere to the Kashrut Policy of the Jewish Community Center. When sending your child’s lunch, we request kosher style lunches (please do not mix dairy and meat products, or send pork and shellfish products.) Campers should bring a well-balanced lunch consisting of a sandwich and fruit along with a paper napkin. There is no sharing of food among campers or staff. Allergy Management Policy Jewish Community Center of Allentown is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all members and community users. Jewish Community Center of Allentown understands the increasing prevalence of life threatening allergies among individuals. Recognizing that the risk of accidental exposure to allergens for children can be reduced in the JCC setting because the JCC is committed to working in cooperation with parents, students, and physicians, to minimize risks and provide a safe environment for all participants. The focus of allergy management shall be on prevention, education, awareness, communication and emergency response. The JCC will within reason make available to any participant at the JCC, a list of the ingredients of any food served at a function. At JCC programs, we do not intentionally serve any food that contains peanuts, tree nuts or sesame seeds. The JCC is an allergy smart organization. 10 Young children are particularly susceptible to food allergies and intolerances because their digestive and immune systems are immature. It can be difficult for programs serving young children to meet the needs of a child with a food allergy or intolerance while serving snacks and/or meals to a group of children. In the United States, just eight foods account for 90 percent of all allergic reactions: milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. Tree nuts include walnuts, pecans, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, pine nuts, pistachios, and more. Children are most commonly allergic to milk, soy, eggs, peanuts, wheat, and tree nuts. In order to keep all children safe, if a child is unable to safely eat all (peanut and tree nut free) of the food served at JCC programs, when a parent or guardian is not present then the child will not be given any of JCC food. All food will be provided by the family. However, items sent or served may be cooked in facilities that have cross contamination exposure, as in facilities that prepare baked goods, challah or buns. JCC programs implement the following to address the needs of our children: 1. Collaborating and communicating with families, their health professionals, keeping complete and thorough health records, being aware of food alternatives, planning for emergencies can minimize the potential dangers for children or adults with food allergies or food intolerances. 2. A child with food allergies or food intolerances must have a Food Allergy Action Plan (FAAP), signed by their doctor. If a child is allergic to more than one food, have them fill out one FAAP per food. The FAAP will tell you what foods the child is allergic to, what symptoms to look for, and what medications to give to treat reactions. 3. The program protects children with food allergies from contact with the problem food. The program asks families of a child with food allergies to give consent for posting information about that child's food allergy and, if consent is given, then posts that information in the food preparation area and in the areas of the facility the child uses so it is a visual reminder to all those who interact with the child during the program day. 4. On an annual basis, program staff will participate in appropriate training to administer emergency allergy medication. All food that is offered at camp (i.e. snacks) will also adhere to this policy of being free of peanuts and tree nuts. Please be sure to inform us if your child has any food allergies. Please label lunch bags with your camper’s name. All lunches will be refrigerated. Camps provide water and juice to drink at lunchtime. Campers will also enjoy a morning snack. On Fridays all camps serve a meat or dairy lunch. Please check your camp’s schedule for a list of dates. For those families wishing to celebrate a birthday at camp, we will be offering the option of ordering parve kosher birthday cupcakes or Italian Ices. If you would like to order a birthday treat, please contact Brenda Finberg, Director of Children’s Services, at 610-435-3571 or bfinberg@lvjcc.org. Forms are available at the JCC. Lunch Ideas Soy butter and jelly sandwich Sun butter Deli sandwich Veggie sushi Cheese sandwich Cream cheese & jelly sandwich Cheese & crackers Cream cheese & olives French toast Cottage cheese & fruit Raw vegetable and onion dip Tuna salad Salads Hearty cereals Falafel Egg salad Yogurt & fruit Fish sticks Pasta salad Hard-boiled eggs String cheese Bagel & cream cheese Muffins Pita pockets Fried egg sandwich Frittata English muffin sandwich Cold cheese pizza Veggie and cheese wraps Potato, noodle or other kugels 11 If you give your child soy butter or sun butter sandwiches, please let us know with a lunch box note or we will assume it’s a peanut butter sandwich, since both products resemble peanut butter. Help us keep our campers safe! Nutella and commercially prepares hummus is not permitted as they contain hazelnuts and or sesame seeds(tahini), respectively. Campers includes those who are vegetarian, tree nut free, peanut free, sesame free, dairy free, gluten free and soy free. It is our goal to work with these families to accommodate their dietary needs and/or practices. To best serve these campers and ensure maximum safety, families who have special dietary needs and/or restrictions will be required to provide the child(ren) with food/snacks/treats. Please note that you must provide not only a M-Th lunch, but a Friday lunch as well, morning snacks, afternoon snacks, and any treats that you would like to be available for birthdays, special events, etc. We can provide storage for shelf, refrigerator and freezer items at camp for your camper. In the past, this has been a positive experience for our camper’s families. Daily Activities The camp day reflects a wide variety of activities, including aquatics, arts and crafts, music, nature, soccer, Judaic culture and so much more. These activities draw upon our Jewish (and Universal) values: Gemilut Chasadim (Acts of Loving Kindness) Tikkun Olam (Making the world around us a better) Rachmanus (Respect and compassion) Rodef Shalom (Making peace) Jewish culture is integrated into daily activities and a special camp program held on Fridays followed by our celebration of Shabbat. Every week will finish with the gathering of all units for a brief Oneg Shabbat in the afternoon. This is a celebration amongst campers and staff for the start of the Sabbath through tradition, song, dance, and skits. Sports Recreational sports and physical fitness is a major component to having happy and healthy campers. Your child will participate in great age appropriate programs that will build confidence, teamwork, and healthy habits that will last with your child well beyond the summer! All activities will be conducted in a fun, safe, and nurturing environment by our staff who will encourage all campers to participate to the best of their abilities. We will be incorporating the CATCH program, which is designed to nurture a love of physical activity, provide an introduction to classroom-based gardening and nutrition, and encourage healthy eating in children. Modeled after the nationally recognized CATCH Program, CEC provides an environment where physical activity, health education, gardening and healthy eating behaviors are valued and taught. Little ones are motivated to walk, run, jump, dance and move their whole bodies while playing and having fun! Swimming The camp swimming program is designed to be a part of the excellent year-round swimming training offered at the JCC. We offer a quality swim program run by certified WSIs and lifeguards, consisting of both instructional and free swim, where fun is combined with a personal challenge for each child. NO CHILD IS EVER FORCED TO GO INTO THE WATER, ONLY ENCOURAGED. Extra help and attention will be given to reluctant children so that they too, will enjoy our swim program. While younger children are just beginning learning their swimming skills, older children who have JCC swim experience must take a test to determine which areas of the pool they are allowed to swim in. All campers will be issued WRISTBANDS to designate swimming areas and must be worn during the entire time the 12 campers are in the pool. The lifeguards will enforce all regular pool rules that are clearly posted on the walls. Behavioral Guidelines and Consequences of Inappropriate Behavior 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. 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. If your child relates to you an incident about a behavior or inaction between them or one of the other counselors and another camper that has caused them concern or makes them feel uncomfortable, please notify the Camp Director. Personal/Valuable Items Please do not permit campers to bring money, cell phones, iPods, CD players, MP-3’s, iPads, tablets, laptops, jewelry, watches or any other DS or mobile gaming or electronic device. These items are a distraction to the camp experience and could put your camper in a position that would ruin their camp experience because the item is lost or broken at camp. If we find these items at camp, they will be held in the Director’s office until dismissal. Camps will not be responsible for lost or damaged items at camp. Money is not needed at camp. Cell Phones 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. If you need to reach your child during the camp day, please call the Welcome Center at 610-435-3571; provide your child’s name and camp. Staff at the Welcome Center will contact the Camp Director On a daily basis we will share with you highlights of the day or if 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 We take photographs during the summer, which are available for view on line. 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 or may not be allowed to return. If the law is broken, the appropriate authorities will be notified. 13 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, of 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. email address, profile names, cell phone number) with Counselors without our or your specific awareness or permission. We recommend that you, as a 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. Campers and the Internet: Cyberbullying and Harassment Parents, please discuss this with your child as part of an age appropriate discussion. We have developed policies about the Internet and other important issues so that everyone has the best experience at camp as possible. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 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, 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. 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, 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. 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 website or blog or email to talk about things that are against camp policy, like using drugs or alcohol or bullying or sexual topics. 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. 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. 14 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. Assumption of Risk As a parent or guardian of a camper enrolled at JCC Camps during the current camp season, you understand that part of the camp experience involves activities and interactions that may be new to your child/ren and that they come with certain risks and uncertainties beyond what your child/ren may be used to dealing with at home. You are aware of these risks, and you are assuming them on behalf of your child/ren You realize that no environment is risk-free, and will instruct your child/ren on the importance of abiding by the Camp’s rules. You and your child/ren both agree that he/she is familiar with these rules and will obey them. Closing Remarks Your family is important to us. The staff and administration at JCC Camps are committed to providing the safest, most fun-filled and rewarding, exceptional camp experience for your child/ren. Our staff is sensitive to the needs of each camper as individuals in all aspects of the physical and emotional camp environment. We are available at any time to discuss your child/ren progress and development at camp, and welcome your comments. 15 JCC Camp Kochavim in Center Valley Off Season Communication We are available for you throughout the year to answer any questions or concerns, and help you navigate the summer camp registration process. Summer Communication Our office staff will take a phone message if you wish to speak with Barrie, or your child’s Division Head or Counselor, and have the person return your call at the earliest possible time that day. Barrie typically returns calls at the end of the camp day, so she can spend the entire time outside on our campus supervising our campers and staff. Your call will be returned either that evening or the next camp day. We can often respond quicker to emails, particularly during non-camp hours. In an effort to provide useful and pertinent information efficiently this summer, JCC Camp Kochavim will continue to communicate primarily by email. All parents will receive emails to the email address they provided upon registration. We are a green camp! All notifications and reminders about Special Events, Late Nights, Trips, and Overnights will be in the form of an email. Please make sure we have your email address in our contacts. Please make sure you check for our emails daily throughout the summer. Camp Reminders will tell parents what their camper should expect with regards to a special activity, what items to pack, and pick- up arrangements (if different than typical camp day). JCC Camp Kochavim will provide a Newsletter each week. This will highlight the current week’s Activities and Special Events with articles and pictures. This Parent Manual is the best way to prepare you and your camper for a safe, enjoyable summer. An online copy of the Parent Manual is available at www.allentownjcc.org . Family dynamics are important to us. Your child/ren may be part of a single parent family, co-parenting arrangement, blended family, or maybe they are spending the summer with their grandparents or extended family. Please let the Camp Director know so we can confirm the line of communication. Staff will check camper bags and backpacks for notes. Items to Bring Daily nd st 2 Bathing Suits- 1 to be worn to camp and the 2 to be changed into after the camper’s 1 swim. Girls should arrive in a t-shirt and shorts (with a Bathing Suit underneath) and boys should arrive in Swim Trunks (which act as shorts) and a T-shirt. Be prepared to swim every day. The weather changes very quickly in the summer months and cool, wet mornings frequently change over to sunny, hot days. Our campers will participate in our American Red Cross Swim Instruction and Recreational Swim periods, rain or shine. Please do not send your child to camp in Crocs, Keens, Sandals or Flip-Flops. If your child arrives to camp without sneakers, we will call you and ask you to bring them their sneakers. If this is not possible, they will not be able to participate in any Athletics or Outdoor Adventure 16 activities. This is for their safety. 2 Towels Hat (optional)- many of our activities takes place out on our fields Camp T-shirt All campers at JCC Camp Kochavim will receive one Camp T-shirt. Additional Camp T-Shirts are available for purchase. Campers should wear their Camp T-shirt every Tuesday and Friday, and for trips outside of camp. The Bundle Bag (Back up clothing) Please send the following items in a LABELED, Ziploc bag on the first day of camp. You can also drop off these items on Meet the Counselor Day, Sunday, June 8. These items will REMAIN AT CAMP and will be sent home with your child on their last day of camp. •Underwear •2 pairs of Socks •Shorts •T-shirt •Sweatshirt •RAIN PONCHO OR RAIN JACKET Campers will participate in their daily schedule of activities, rain or shine. We have an adequate amount of covered space including four pavilions, an art barn, game room, music room and lodge. We will make accommodations and modifications as needed in Extreme Weather conditions. It is very important for campers to have rain gear so we can move to sheltered locations across our campsite. Camp Events Calendar You will receive a Camp Events Calendar in the spring. This is your official guide to what is happening at camp. It includes Weekly Themes, Dress-Up-Days, Special Events, Late Nights, Overnights, and Day Trips. On Days designated as Dress-Up-Days, please do not worry. It is encouraged for campers to participate, but not mandatory. We want our parents to enjoy the summer, too! Late Nights Rather than going home at 4:00 dismissal, campers remain at camp for an after camp swim party, dinner and camp activity. Parent pick-up is at the JCC at 7:30. Permission slips will be emailed and sent home to campers who are programmed for a Late Night. Parents must return a signed permission slip stating whether or not their child will be participating. Overnights All Super Stars (grades 3, 4, 5, 6) and All Stars (grades 7, 8) will have an Overnight. Third and Fourth grade boys and girls will have an Overnight in the Lodge at JCC Camp Kochavim in Center Valley. Fifth, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth Graders will have an Overnight trip to Pinemere. Permission slips will be emailed and sent home to campers who are programmed for an Overnight. Parents must return a signed permission slip stating whether or not their child will be participating. Trips Permission slips are required only for Day Trips or events that may extend past the end of the camp day. Campers must wear their Camp T-shirt on Trip days. Camp Picture Day Each camper will receive an individual and bunk picture. Picture Day will be posted on the Camp Events Calendar. Family Visits JCC Camp Kochavim has an open door visitation policy from 9:30 am-3:30 pm. Please adhere to the following procedures: Sign in and show identification at the Welcome Center You will receive a Visitors Badge to be worn throughout your visit Visitors will be asked to leave their keys at the Welcome Center Smoking, alcohol, and pets are not prohibited on the camp property 17 Please dispose of hot beverages before entering camp If you are planning to join your child for lunch, you must adhere to the Kosher policy of the Jewish Community Center of Allentown and our Allergy Smart policy restricting Peanuts, Sesame Seeds and Nuts If you decide to take your child home, you must sign them out in the office Please keep cell phone use to a minimum Campers may not bring guests or friends to camp at any time or for any reason Transportation Every parent has the option to transport their child(ren) to and from camp. Drop off for arrival at camp is in Center Valley between 8:45 and 9:00 am. Pick up from camp in Center Valley is between 4:00 and 4:15 pm. Parent drop-off and pick-up occurs at the Lodge Parking Lot. The entrance/exit for the Lodge is located on Vera Cruz Road just South of Chestnut Hill Road. For the safety of our campers and staff, please do not drive up to the main parking area. Staff will be assigned to welcome your camper in the morning and escort them to their designated meeting area at camp, and dismiss your child to you in the afternoon. Please remain in your vehicle during drop-off and pick-up procedures. Anyone picking up a child from camp will be asked to see photo identification. Please provide the Camp Office notification, in writing, if someone other than the parent will be picking up the child. Bus Transportation We provide Bus and/or Van Transportation for camp as well as trips in and around the Lehigh Valley. Every effort is made to route buses so that the trips are safe, short, convenient and enjoyable. We assign Bus Counselors to every vehicle. You will receive an introductory phone call from your Bus Counselor prior to the start of camp. They are responsible for tracking camper attendance, escorting a child to the door, and making the ride more safe and enjoyable. Every effort is made to route buses so that each stop will be within a short, convenient trip between camper residences and our campsite in Center Valley. In some neighborhoods, a Central Express Bus Stop (i.e. JCC) is designated. Central Express Bus Transportation adds to the efficiency of our Transportation Program. Whether your child is picked up from your residence or from a Central Express Bus Stop, it is important that your child is ready on time. Morning pick-ups will occur between 8:008:50 am. Camp Bus J and Camp Bus T Camp Bus J and Camp Bus T leave the JCC at 8:30 am daily. If you miss the bus, you will have to drive your child(ren) to camp. No child may be left unattended at the bus arrival or departure site at the JCC. A Bus Counselor will be available to greet your child(ren) under the Portico at 8:15 am. Any child arriving prior to 8:15 am must be registered for the AM Extended Day Program; no exceptions. The AM Extended Day Program meets in the J Zone. Extended Day Programs For your convenience, JCC Camp Kochavim provides an AM Extended Day Program and a PM Extended Day Program. The AM Extended Day Program and PM Extended Day Program are both located in LL2 on the lower level of the Jewish Community Center of Allentown. The AM Extended Day program runs from 7:30-8:30 am. You must walk your child down to the program area located on the lower level of the JCC and sign them in. Your child will ride the JCC Bus J or Mini Bus T that leaves at 8: 30 am to our Center Valley campsite. 18 The PM Extended Day Program runs from 4:30-6:00 pm. Your child will ride JCC Bus J or Mini Bus T from our campsite in Center Valley with our Extended Day Counselors. You must walk down to pick up your child in the program area located in LL2 on the lower level of the JCC and sign them out. For the safety of our campers and staff, we do not permit food or drinks on the vehicles. Drivers are not permitted to make any stops for food, drink or restroom visits so please make sure your child(ren) has had breakfast and used the bathroom when you arrive promptly to your assigned pick-up location. Requests for child(ren) that need to switch vehicles for a playdate or childcare situation can only do so if our Transportation Program can accommodate the request, and we receive notification in writing from BOTH parents. Campers who ride the same vehicle can be dropped off at another camper’s stop if BOTH parents have notified the Camp Office in writing. Camp Program Aquatics Campers swim twice a day, for instruction and recreation. We test campers at the beginning of their camp session and place them in the appropriate teaching level for the American Red Cross Swim Program. As a camper passes from one level into the next, he/she receives an American Red Cross Swim Card and Patch for the level completed. Before campers are permitted to access to the deep water section of our pool during recreational (fun) swim, they must first demonstrate proficient skills in a “Deep Water Test”. Campers who pass the test are issued a Deep Water Swim Band, their “passport” for access to the deep water. We send home Swim Progress Reports throughout the summer to indicate progress. If you have any questions regarding the swim program, you may call and leave a message for the Aquatics Director. Athletics Our Sports Program includes Baseball, Softball, T-ball, Soccer, Basketball, Volleyball/Newcomb, GaGa, Kickball, Tennis, Street Hockey, Track & Field, Tetherball, Wiffleball and Pillo Polo. We focus on instruction, skill development, sportsmanship, participation and fun. Instruction is offered by knowledgeable and trained athletic staff and coaches who follow warm-ups and lesson plans that are geared to the age and developmental level of the camper. Arts Our Art Barn Program includes Arts & Crafts, Clay, Mosaics, Model-craft, Painting, Drawing, Cooking, Dance, Showtime, and Music. All campers will have an opportunity to participate in Creative and Performing Arts. Please dress your child(ren) in comfortable clothing that may get bright with evidence of their day’s work. Outdoor Adventure Our Outdoor Adventure Program includes our professionally engineered Ropes Course (includes high & low levels), Zip Line, Nature, Hiking, Archery, Mountain Biking, Gardening, Orienteering, and Outdoor Science. Jewish Culture We are excited to share that we will once again welcome a Summer Shaliach and Israeli Teen Staff from our partner community in the Yoav Region of Israel to work, live and play at JCC Camp Kochavim and in our Jewish Community Center of Allentown Community for the Summer of 2014. Programs like Israeli Fun, Weekly Shabbat Celebrations, Israeli Day and Maccabi Games are led and facilitated by our young adult friends from Israel. If you are interested in becoming a host family for some of our Israeli friends, please contact the JCC and leave a message for Lisa Kirshner. Divisions JCC Camp Kochavim has three Divisions, led by a Division Head. Each division will be grouped into smaller, age-appropriate “bunks”. In the spring, you will receive your child(ren)s Bunk Schedule. Bunks will follow their own schedule of activities throughout the summer, to assure they get to participate in the broad range of activities and events provided at camp. 19 nd Shining Stars are boys and girls entering Pre-K-2 Grade. rd th Super Stars are boys and girls entering 3 -6 Grade. th th All Stars are boys and girls entering 7 and 8 Grade. Happy and Healthy Campers We understand that children may become ill or injured over the summer. Our Infirmary is staffed by a Nurse. Our Nurse is a caring and experienced Nursing Professional that will provide a steady dose of TLC. Our Nurse is not a Physician and cannot diagnose illness or injury or prescribe medication. If the Camp Nurse deems your child unfit for camp at any time, you must pick up your child from camp. The Infirmary is a short-term treatment center, not one that is equipped to handle full-day health care. Friday Picnics at JCC Camp Kochavim Every Friday JCC Camp Kochavim will provide a Picnic Lunch consisting of a Kosher Hot Dog, chips and fruit (on meat days) or Pizza and fruit (on dairy days). Please clearly label lunch bags with your campers name and bunk. All lunches will be refrigerated. JCC Camp Kochavim provides water and juice to drink at lunchtime. Campers will NOT have access to vending machines for drinks. We provide a Kosher snack every morning and a Kosher ice pop every afternoon. Rainy Day Procedures Rain or shine, every effort will be made to remain at Camp in Center Valley. In the event of severely inclement weather, camp may be held at the main Jewish Community Center building in Allentown. A recorded announcement will be on the camp’s answering machine 610.967.4750 indicating the location of Camp on questionable days. The JCC’s voicemail greeting 610.435.3571 will reflect the location of Camp, and the information will be posted on the home page of the website. Additionally, we will be using our One Call Now system (an automated phone message service) to alert each family if there is a change in our location. AFTERNOON BUS DROP OFF MAY BE AT LEAST 15 MINUTES EARLY DUE TO OUR CLOSER PHYSICAL PROXIMITY IN TOWN. You will be notified if the children are going to be at the building. Pool Closing At times, the Aquatics staff may need to close the pool as required by the Health Department for any of the following reasons: lightning; heavy rain; vomiting; bowel accident; nosebleed; cut or scrape with result of blood entering the pool or chemical issues. Camp JCC follows the guidelines set out by the City of Allentown Health department for pool operation. *An outline of our Aquatics program is available separately for your reference. Celebrate Your Birthday at Camp We want to celebrate birthdays with your child at camp! Birthday treats are $1 per child and are purchased for your child’s entire bunk by the JCC. Please fill out the BIRTHDAY FORM available on line and turn in at least 3 days before your child’s birthday. You can print the form which is available on our website. As per our Allergy Policy, do not send in treats from home. Discipline Policy JCC Camp Kochavim is a community of children, staff and administrators. Together we provide a physically and emotionally safe, fun summer full of learning, growing and lifetime memories. We work to eliminate Inappropriate Language, Inappropriate Behavior, Bullying and we enforce a Zero Tolerance Weapons Policy. There are times when actions must be taken with a particular child in order to insure a safe and positive environment for the campers and staff. 20 Our Discipline Policy, depending on the age and severity of the situation is in the following order, but subject to modification as deemed by the Camp Director: First Offense: The Bunk Counselor will explain to the child why the behavior is inappropriate, dangerous, etc… The Bunk Counselor will attempt to resolve the situation Second Offense: The Division Head and Bunk Counselor will discuss the matter with the child and explain why the behavior is inappropriate, dangerous, etc…The Division Head will attempt to resolve the situation. This may result in A phone call home The child missing time at an activity Third Offense: The Camp Director will meet with the child and discuss why the behavior is inappropriate, dangerous, etc…The Camp Director will attempt to resolve the situation. This will result in one or more of the following actions: A phone call home, the child missing time at an activity, the child missing an entire activity, the child being suspended from a day of camp or the child being dismissed from camp with no refund of tuition Camp Jr. Parent and Carpool Transportation Drop-Off/Pick-Up Procedures If you will be dropping off your Child/Children during arrival time, please follow the guidelines listed below. Drop-off and pick up should be quick and orderly. Parent drop off and pick up occurs in the Washington St. parking lot. Parents will drive around to drop-off/pick-up zone in 5 min. parking area near walk way to waiting counselors. Campers must be accompanied by a counselor or parent all times. There is no dismissing of campers without a staff member present. For the safety of our campers and staff, please drive nd slow and do not drive up to the main drop-off area on 22 St. As the camp day begins at 9:00 am, we would appreciate you dropping your campers off in the morning on time, but no earlier than 8:55 am as staff may be participating in daily meetings or activities. A staff member will be at the drop off spot to welcome arriving campers and to supervise the pick-up in the afternoon. Flag raising ceremonies, special announcements and morning fun begins promptly at 9:00 am daily. Please make every effort to bring your child to camp on time. The camp day ends promptly at 1:00 pm. Once again, we ask that you remain in your car and a staff member will bring your camper(s) to your car. Late Drop-off/Early Pick-up When your child comes to camp late or if he/she needs to be picked up early, please contact the camp office. When you arrive at camp for pick up, please park and check in at the camp office. We will bring your child to the office. 21 Stagemakers at the J Camps Acting · Art· Music · Dance · Improvisation Camp Philosophy Stagemakers at the J is a summer camp for children who are interested in the Performing Arts. Our program is educationally oriented, with an emphasis on having the children express themselves through music, dance, drama and art. Children’s Theater (JCCT) Among our key philosophies is a commitment to a non-competitive environment. There are no awards, prizes, or inclusion and exclusion based on judging, scoring, or grading of any type in our Theater Department. Our staff provides feedback, advice, and encouragement. They encourage campers to pursue their interests and to observe others to gain insight and inspiration. There are many summer programs offering performing arts training that prepare children for the highly competitive professional arts world. This is not our mission. We want the experience of performing to be rich and fulfilling, and free of the concerns of the professional world. We take pride in attracting campers from an extremely broad range of skill and experience levels, and providing an environment in which all campers have ample opportunities for growth. Lights, Camera, Action we are off to a musical and amazing summer. Staff Stagemakers at the J has selected extremely talented staff who are proven, talented, trustworthy and capable adults, college graduates, college students and high school students. The health and safety of the campers is the primary concern of all staff at Stagemakers. Our staff members participate in a training program prior to the camp season, where they receive training on such topics as program planning, health and safety, and a class on appropriate interaction between adults and campers and use of social media/technology. Our Performing Arts Staff have many talents and experience in the theater world. Susan Chase is delighted to be working with Stagemakers at the J. Susan has extensive credits as an actress, playwright, director, and choreographer throughout Pennsylvania and the mid-Atlantic region. Susan has taught and directed productions at Pennsylvania Youth Theatre, Muhlenberg College, Cedar Crest College, Lafayette College and Lehigh University. She was an ensemble member with Touchstone Theatre from 1987-1995, where two of her original scripts received “year’s best” citations by the Morning Call. She appeared with the company at New York’s Lincoln Center, Philadelphia’s Painted Bride and at the International Theatre Festival in Santiago, Chile. A ten-year survivor of breast cancer, Ms. Chase performs a solo show, Susan's Undoing, at venues throughout the U.S. The play uses dance, music, text and multimedia to depict one woman's journey through cancer and recovery. Ms. Chase received a M.Ed. in Special Education from Lehigh University in 2011. Since then she has used her background in education and theater to help individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities and a variety of emotional challenges to express themselves through dance, drama, movement, music and visual art. Sarah Perlin is a 2008 graduate of Muhlenberg College where she received a BA in theatre studies. Since graduating she has appeared on stage with The Worthington Players at the Shawnee Playhouse in their production of Blithe Spirit in 2008, and spent several years with the Pennsylvania Theatre of Performing 22 Arts in Hazleton where she won awards for Best Director of a Comedy for her work on A Christmas Story and Best Director of a Drama for The Miracle Worker. Code of Conduct Stagemakers at the J maintain a Code of Conduct for all members of the camp community. The code is intended as a guide for general behavior. Cooperate using appropriate behavior 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. Daily Schedule 9:00 10:00 10:45 11:30 12:00 12:30 1:15 2:00 3:00 4:00 Group 2 Opening Acting Tech Lunch Theater Games Voice Dance Snack & Rehearsal Swimming/Pool Dismissal Group 1 Opening Voice Dance Lunch Theater Games Acting Tech Snack & Rehearsal Swimming/Pool Dismissal Dates of Performances th Broadway Boot Camp: Friday, June 27 at 3:00pm th th Jungle Book the Musical: Thursday, July 17 at 7:00pm and Friday, July 18 at 11:00am st st Beatlemania: Thursday, July 31 at 7:00pm and Friday August 1 at 11:00am Good theatre helps build self-esteem and can teach a child listening skills, dedication, communication, in addition to helping foster imagination and creativity. Because theatre is a collaborative effort, kids learn to get along with others, work in ensemble and understand them in many ways. The feeling of personal accomplishment, combined with the joy of teamwork and lessons about their shared responsibilities will seem to be just an added bonus to all the fun.
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