Camp America Day Camp - Staff Manual & Resource Pack - Helping to Develop Future Leaders
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Camp America Day Camp
Staff Manual & Resource Pack
Helping to Develop Future Leaders
Since 1967
Camp America Song
Working as one
Friendship and Fun
Cheer for Camp America
Loyal forever
Sharing together
ve got the spirit
Camp America
Camp America
by Steve Funt
Page 1Welcome to the Camp America Family
Our staff is more than a highly specialized group of individuals it is a highly
competent team of people carefully selected to work together as a well-oiled unit
with a single purpose. That purpose is to plan and provide the safest and happiest
summer possible for every Camp America camper.
It is our philosophy that this goal can be achieved, but only if our staff (as a whole and
as individuals) works toward functioning as a fulfilled, happy group each drawing
his or her satisfaction from individual and team efforts. We feel that good morale is a
function of an organized, hands-on, caring and visionary leadership team. WE also
believe that the more a person applies and dedicates himself/herself to the group
effort, the more satisfaction he/she will gain from it. Working at Camp America can
be everything YOU want it to be. Become involved and apply yourself through your
best possible effort and this summer will be a most rewarding one.
Start the season off right by reading this manual. You will find an abundant amount
of information that we expect you to use throughout the summer at Camp America.
Although pre-camp orientation will cover some of the information found in this
manual, you are expected to know and use all of it.
Thank you for choosing Camp America Day Camp and good luck,
June and Steve Mitchell and Norma Levin
Owners/Directors of Camp America Day Camp
Page 2Statement of Goals and Objectives
At Camp America, we know that children do not go to camp to be educated, but that
they cannot leave camp without learning. We offer our boys and girls the opportunity
to develop physical, emotional, social and intellectual skills on a daily basis.
We offer our campers a structured program implemented by a highly trained
professional staff. As we recognize that every child is a unique individual, our
programs are designed to provide opportunities for all campers to pursue their
individual interests and abilities. Not only do we strive to offer our campers
opportunities for growth and development through outdoor activity, we aim to
provide them with a safe and fun summer as well.
The goals of Camp America would be achieved if each camper demonstrated the
following:
Performs new physical skills that they could not perform previously or were
performed at a lower level.
Takes part in the planning and implementing of a group program, activity, or
project.
Takes the initiative on their own to participate in a specific activity in which
they have a special interest.
Creates at least three objects of his/her own of which he/she can be proud.
Participates in an activity designed for individual growth and independence.
Learns the fundamentals of water safety.
Demonstrates an understanding of and consideration for the feelings and
needs of others.
Page 3EMPLOYMENT
Is your personnel file complete?
Before the beginning of camp you must have on file:
Camp America contract for employment (signed by appropriate parties
employee, parents [if under 18 years old], camp director)
Vacation Employment Certificate (junior staff
Social security number
US citizenship verification form (I-9)
Tax with-holding form (W-4)
A signed medical form to be kept on file for use in emergencies. Make sure
your emergency contact is up-to-date.
Sexual Harassment Policy
Vehicle assurance form for those who are or may drive campers to and from
camp
Workers Compensation Information form
Copy of all certifications first aid, lifeguard, CPR, applicable professional
associations, etc.
Copy of all background checks Criminal History Record, Child Abuse
Clearance and Federal Criminal History Record (FBI Fingerprinting).
Page 4Employment Requirements
ALL staff members are required to attend a series of pre-camp orientation
meetings, including one training session, one pre-camp counselor meeting/set-
up day and a meeting just before the start of the camp
season. You are expected to fulfill this pre-season part of your contract as a
condition for working during the season.
All drivers are required to make phone contact with all of their riders before the
first day of camp.
Substance abuse (drug and/or alcohol) of any kind will be considered just
cause for immediate termination of employment and removal from the
campgrounds.
Sexual harassment in any form will not be tolerated by the administration of
this camp. All accusations will be investigated and dealt with promptly, fairly
and seriously.
The application of physical punishment of any nature will not be tolerated by
the administration of this camp. All accusations will be investigated and dealt
with promptly, fairly and seriously.
On a periodic basis, formal and informal evaluations will be made regarding job
s is the responsibility of
the owner/director(s) who have final approval in all personnel decisions.
Applicants are required to complete an application form which includes their
name, address, phone number(s), previous work experience, personal,
professional and/or academic references as well as a survey of skills and
interests.
Camp America, as a policy, chooses staff members based on their
appropriateness for a position founded on experience, skills, willingness to learn,
leadership qualities, etc. Ethnic background, race, religious beliefs or sexual
orientation are not considered when making personnel decisions.
Body piercings and tattoos judged to be offensive are prohibited at Camp
America. The decision of the owner/director(s) shall be final. If you have a
concern, please see June Mitchell.
Page 5STRUCTURE
How are groups at CA organized?
Camp America enrolls boys and girls from 2.5 to 14 years of age. Campers are
ks are
organized in divisions headed by division leaders. The division leaders work with
program coordinators on the leadership team under the direction of the
director/owner(s). Currently there are four divisions.
Program Coordinators: Jared Mitchell and Marc Mednick
Approximate age Leader(s)
Division 1 2.5 to 5 years Allyson Michels
Division 2 6 to 8 years Meredith Mitchell and Howard Ginsberg
Division 3 9 to 12 years Caryn Jacobs and Levi Minsky
Division 4 CITs and STARS Caryn Jacobs and Levi Minsky
Camp America assigns counselors to bunks and leaders at activities to meet the
following supervision standards:
Campers ages 2.5-5 years 1 staff to 6 campers
Campers ages 6-8 years 1 staff to 8 campers
Campers ages 9-14 years 1 staff to 10 campers
Scheduling
All staff members are employed for a period of eight weeks 5 days each week for
39 days (closed on July 4 th). Although the hours on the premises are from 9:15 AM to
4:00 PM, whether driving or being driven, your camp day actually beings when the
first camper is picked-up and ends with your last drop off. Consistent staff
attendance is a vital part of the camp program. Time off is limited to immediate
personal emergencies ONLY. You must speak to June Mitchell, owner/director, as
soon as you know there is a problem. Call Camp (215-822-6313) or see June in the
camp office. Unexcused absences may result in a pro-rated reduction in salary.
Excessive absence is considered just cause for termination of employment.
Each bunk is given a daily schedule to follow. The nine period schedule includes
group activities with specialists, swims, bunk activities, lunch, snack and special
events. It is the responsibility of group leaders to follow this schedule unless other
activities have been scheduled or a member of the leadership team has approved
specific changes.
Specialist counselors are provided with a roster of the groups that are assigned to
their activities. While every effort is made to let them know when groups will not be
with them, flexibility and understanding are keys to a cooperative summer.
Each day there are morning and afternoon line-ups. Division 1 will meet at the Flag
Pole next to the Gazebo in the morning and then in the afternoon will join Division 2
in the Barn. Division 2 will meet in the Barn. Division 3 and 4 will meet in the Grand
Pavilion. On Friday afternoons, all divisions will meet together in the Grand Pavilion.
Come prepared to sing the Camp America song. All counselors are to sit with their
groups. Campers are to be kept orderly and encouraged to give their attention to the
Page 6line-up leader. Specialists are to assist with keeping order and to act as appropriate
role models by also being silent and giving the speaker their attention.
A Weekly Events sheet is sent home on Fridays. Counselors are responsible for
making every effort to see that the sheets go home IN CAMP BAGS. Counselors should
post one in their bunk to remind themselves and campers when camp shirts will be
required or, as a reminder for special scheduling needs.
Each division will have at least one late night or overnight event during the season.
Senior and Junior counselors are required to attend the event(s) scheduled for their
bunk. CITs have several late night or overnight events, which the CIT counselors
must attend. Division leaders and coordinators will provide supervision and coverage
for all extended hour events as required.
Time Schedule
The following chart shows the times that each activity period starts. Please note that
we utilize a staggered lunch schedule.
Specialists must take careful note of the beginning and ending time for lunch. If you
take more than a 30-minute lunch, you may have campers waiting for you. If the
kitchen is ready, specialists may enter the Barn from the door near the kitchen
approximately 5 minutes before the campers enter the Barn.
At lunch time, 5 minutes before the beginning of your lunch period, only the
counselor (jr. or sr.) serving lunch and one or two campers may enter the Barn from
the side door to set up your table. All others will be told to leave. Diners must enter
from the large front Barn door only at the direction of division leaders. If you have
questions or concerns see a coordinator or a division leader for help.
To determi
4th Period Lunch 5th Period Lunch 6th Period Lunch
Line-up 9:20 9:20 9:20
1 9:40 9:40 9:40
2 10:20 10:20 10:20
3 11:00 11:00 11:00
4 11:40 11:40 11:40
5 12:10 12:20 12:20
6 12:50 12:50 1:00
7 1:30 1:30 1:30
JUICE BREAK 2:05 2:05 2:05
8 2:20 2:20 2:20
9 2:55 2:55 2:55
END 9TH PERIOD &
3:25 3:25 3:25
PREP FOR HOME
LINE-UP 3:40 3:40 3:40
DISMISSAL FROM
NOT BEFORE 4PM NOT BEFORE 4PM NOT BEFORE 4PM
PARKING LOT
Page 7PEOPLE
The General Counselor
summer camp experience. Before the opening of the camp season, the general
counselor is required to attend pre-camp meetings. Counselors are cordially invited
to attend the open house held in the spring, the Oktoberfest and Camp Reunion in
January. Attending the various events gives you the chance to
become familiar with the layout of the camp, and to spend some pleasant social time
with fellow staff members and camp families.
Schedule as presented
on his/her bunk schedule. Occasionally changes may be made with the information
being passed to the general counselor from the division leader or program
coordinator. Should there be a time during the day when an activity is not indicated
as a planned or scheduled one, the general counselor is responsible for planning for
-
Leadership Though campers may start the summer in an enthusiastic and
sometimes boisterous manner, they are very aware that you are THEIR person-in-
charge and will react according to the way you express your leadership. Campers
generally follow the example set by their general counselor good or bad! Take
charge in a firm and fair way from the beginning. Think ahead! Campers will catch
you every time that you are not sure what comes next. (See following sections for
more help and guidance.)
Supervision When your bunk travels around camp, from activity-to-activity, you
may turn the direction of the group over to a specialist for instruction or organized
play. Remember that you never totally relinquish leadership of the group. There are
no free periods scheduled or unscheduled for the general counselors or JCs.
During the time your group spends under the direction of other staff members, you
and your junior staff are to take on the role of assistants. With rare exception, the
specialist is not expected to assume complete control of your group. Junior and Senior
staff members are expected to work and play with their campers at every activity.
The more you interact with your group and the specialist, the more the campers in
your care will gain benefit and pleasure from that activity
General counselors are ultimately responsible for the actions of every camper and
junior staff member under their supervision throughout the camp day. The example
you set will be the one that sets the tone for the young people in your care.
Conflict Resolution Should you encounter any difficulty that cannot be effectively
resolved between responsible staff members, bring it to the immediate attention of
your division leader, a program coordinator or a director. Above all else, avoid
confrontations or arguments between staff members in front of campers.
Junior Staff Mentoring The senior general counselor directly supervises the junior
staff members assigned to you. The assistance that JCs give you can be valuable, but
only if you guide them in it. You have the unique opportunity and responsibility of
Page 8Specific Responsibilities:
Help with and participate in activity panning and operation
Plan, carry out and participate in overnighters and late stay events
Prepare/facilitate rainy day and/or hot weather programs/activities
Take responsibility for and leadership of rainy day activities that have been
planned for the bunk by the leadership team or the general counselor
himself/herself
Assist specialists with presentation of their activities during regular or special
schedules (rainy day, hot day, visiting day, etc.)
Ensure that your bunk area is presentably clean at all times and make a
genuin -up
in the corner of the bunk
Supervise, mentor, evaluate and work with the CITs assigned to you
news
Notify specialists
Maintain control of your bunk during AM and PM line-ups and mass activities
including seeing that all campers are present, seated, quiet and paying
attention to whatever announcements or presentations are being made.
Monitor camper health and welfare including obtaining first aid or medical
evaluation, keeping campers hydrated, getting campers to the nurse for
scheduled medical treatments, etc.
Snack time obtaining snack (or directing the JC to get the snack), seeing that
everyone has snack, CLEANING UP YOUR SNACK AREA, and returning
leftovers to the kitchen in a timely fashion
Assist with the establishment of a working lunch procedure that can be
implemented and managed by the JC and/or SC including getting campers to
lunch on time, settling them down at the tables, obtaining food and seeing that
all campers have enough to eat, attending to campers with allergies or medical
concerns, cleaning up your area (including the floor) and keeping the bunk
together and occupied until the beginning of the next period
Ensure the timely distribution of flyers and other materials to be sent home
making reasonable effort to see that campers carry this material home.
Attention! Attention!
Please teach your campers and model that when we are all together, the leader will
which is followed by silence and attention to the activity that is taking place.
Also, teach and model that when a group leader addresses a gathering with a
Gaining the attention of campers and staff is one of our greatest frustrations as
group leaders. This concern can only be overcome if everyone cooperates modeling
respect for the group leader and insisting that campers do the same. Please
eliminate side conversations, sit with your campers, redirect their attention and
monitor their behavior.
Page 9The Specialist Counselor
The specialist is a counselor who has been employed for the purpose of instructing or
leading a particular activity. When a group arrives at that activity, the senior bunk
counselor, as well as their accompanying staff will assist the specialist counselor(s)
during that activity period. It is your responsibility to see that the bunk staff clearly
understands their roles related to your program.
Planning / Programming Senior specialist counselors are expected to plan, prepare
and present a developmentally and age appropriate eight week program for all the
campers assigned to them. Specialists are responsible for submitting program/lesson
outlines and supply lists in a timely fashion. Before camp beings, arrange to come to
camp and see what is available for your program. The Camp America leadership team
strives to provide an ample amount and wide variety of equipment and supplies for
every activity presented. Every effort will be made to have the supplies you need
available when you need them but they must be ordered as early as possible. See a
program coordinator or June Mitchell for ordering information.
Camper Participation All staff members are counselors, in spite of any title that one
may have. Each member is responsible for the health and welfare of every camper.
Specialist counselors are encouraged to establish a record keeping system for each
child that comes to his/her specialty. This could be the swim-skill cards kept at the
pool, a skills checklist at sports or physical activities, a program log for projects done
in arts and crafts or ceramics, game score records in computers or a photo collection
for the camp scrapbook or web site. This record of camper participation is particularly
important so that the camp office can respond on a well-informed basis to inquiries
that are made from time-to-time by interested parents.
Special Events Mass activities include all camp staff members. Specialist counselors
are expected to read all information sheets before special events and to be familiar
with their assignments during these events. If you are expected to run an event,
every effort will be made to give you time to prepare all needed equipment and to
know what you are expected to do.
Line-up All counselors attend line-up and must assume responsibility for seeing
that campers are settled, quiet and paying attention to the presentation.
Lunch Specialists and their JCs will be assigned a lunch period. Although every
effort is made to keep this period as regular as possible, your lunch assignment may
change throughout the week. Each week will remain the same. Lunch periods are
duty free with respect to being with campers. On the other hand, everyone must help
with keeping the staff lunch area neat, clean and ready for the next lunch period.
This includes busing trays, throwing out trash and wiping down tables. Some
specialists will be assigned to assist bunks at lunch. This not your eating period. You
are to give your attention to the campers where you have been assigned and to help
serve them lunch.
Facilities Specialists are expected to maintain the facilities and their work area in a
clean and orderly manner. Should you require additional equipment or supplies, see
a program coordinator. If you have a maintenance issue, speak with Steve Mitchell.
Page 10Supervision In addition to planning and presenting an interesting and safe program
for the campers, the senior specialist counselor also directly supervises the junior
staff member(s) assigned to you. The assistance of these JCs can be a valuable asset,
but only if you guide them in it. You have a unique opportunity and responsibility for
Specific Responsibilities:
Plan and implement a program for all campers who are scheduled to your
specialty
Assist with presentation of special events and mass activities
Prepare rainy day and hot weather programs/activities
Take responsibility for and leadership of alternate rainy day activities that have
been planned by the leadership team or the specialist counselor himself/herself
in the event that a specific area is unusable during inclement weather
Direct bunk staff in helping with the presentation of activities during regular or
special schedules (rainy day hot day visiting day, etc.)
Ensure that your specialty area is presentably clean at all times
Supervise evaluate and work with the CITs assigned to you
news
Attempt to keep abreast of changes in your daily schedule and to remain
flexible and understanding enough to accept changes that are not brought to
our immediate attention
Actively assist with maintaining control during AM and PM line-ups and special
events including seeing that all campers are seated quietly and paying
attention to whatever announcements or presentations are being made.
Junior Staff Members
depending on the needs of
the bunk or specialist activity and desires of the senior counselor. Clearly these
responsibilities are essentially the same as those of the senior (adult) counselor.
All junior counselors are directly responsible to their senior counselor and division
leader. Junior staff members are in camp to assist the adult counselor in the
performance of his or her duties and to help see that each camper has the most safe
and enjoyable summer possible.
In addition to following specific directions and carrying out your specific
responsibilities, junior counselors are encouraged to draw on imagination and
initiative in dealing with campers as well as using tact, maturity and discretion in
working with other members of the camp staff. The young adult members of our staff
are a vital part of our camp operation this is unusual as day camps go. Success and
the pride that accompanies it are certain to result from a job enthusiastically done.
Junior staff members generally receive as much responsibility as they show they are
capable of handling. Carry out your responsibilities conscientiously and you will
derive that much more satisfaction and reward from your efforts.
you a more complete view of the job which you and your senior counselor as a team
summer experience than the ones you and your senior counselor hold.
Page 11YOU ARE A YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROFESSIONAL!
Discipline vs. Punishment
PHYSICAL PUNISHMENT OR ABUSIVE
MISBEHAVIOR IS STRICTLY PROHIBITED AND IS UNEQUIVOCAL CAUSE FOR
IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL AND TERMINATION OF YOUR CONTRACT.
remain calm.
Unless safety is an issue you do not have to immediately react. Stop and think get
advice or assistance from your division leader if needed.
Kids are kids and from time to time you may find yourself in a position of having to
discipline a camper. The first rule is to take a deep breath and count to ten. Then,
remember that discipline is very different from punishment.
A well-run program in which campers are interested and busy is your first tool
for success.
Establish rules and procedures you are able and willing to back-up.
You are the leader of your group. Your campers and junior counselor will be
looking to you as a role model for handling difficult situations.
Do not holler. Maintain a reasonable tone of voice. Take campers aside and
speak to them reasonably. Do not embarrass them in front of other counselors
or campers. You are the grown-up! Do not lower your standards in order to be
-
to-
Be prepared to reason with your campers but not to be drawn into an
argument.
Look at time out as a cooling off period. Experts suggest 1 minute for each year
Be fair in your dealings with campers. Kids are very sensitive to any
differences you show in handling individual campers. Do not play favorites or
grant privileges to a few.
mentally,
physically and emotionally.
Rewarding good behavior with praise and privileges often works wonders.
Page 12Child Abuse Recognition, Reporting, Avoidance
of the possibility that one of your campers may be a victim of child abuse. Abuse can
take many forms and can present itself in many ways. By law it is your responsibility
to REPORT suspected cases of child abuse to the administration of this camp.
You may suspect a camper is a victim of child abuse if you not
unexplained or recurring bruises
unexplained injuries
injuries or bruises the child is unwilling to talk about or ones that the child
makes excuses for - without being asked
a sudden and/or dramatic change in the behavior or attitude of a camper
(either overly positive or overly negative)
prolonged depressed, withdrawn, and/or angry behavior
unexplained or unusual absence patterns
If a camper confides in you that he/she has been abused in any fashion or you suspect
a child is a victim of abuse, take this seriously. Report your concerns to a director
and/or the camp nurse.
DO NOT APPROACH THE CHILD (OR PARENT)
WITH YOUR CONCERNS OR SUSPICIONS!
Do not share your concerns with anyone (including your junior staff). Go to a director
(June Mitchell) or the camp nurse(s). If a junior staff member brings a concern to your
attention, instruct the junior counselor not to discuss the matter any further until
someone contacts him/her, immediately bring the matter to the attention of a director
or the camp nurse who will contact the junior counselor.
In completing your duties as a staff member at Camp America, be aware of your
dealings with the campers. Never isolate yourself in any situation that could lead to
an accusation of improper interaction with any child. Such situations include (but
contact or play of any kind, overnights, correcting or reprimanding negative behavior,
etc. Be aware of others who are clo -you-
(like changing) but may need to provide privacy for the camper. Be aware of
situations where campers may need extra supervision and whom you can ask for
help.
Remember that abuse includes anything that makes a child feel uncomfortable,
including: the way a child is spoken to (shouting, cursing, screaming), emotional
stress, name calling, put-downs, teasing, taunting, physical endangerment, hazing,
being the target of any violent act, neglect, isolation, unreasonable
punishment/discipline, etc.
A good rule of thumb is to think about how you would want your child, your sibling, or
even yourself treated by a camp counselor or other adult. In addition, senior staff
members are charged with helping junior staff members monitor their behavior in
dealing with campers. While junior staff members are chosen for their outstanding
qualities and maturity, they are still young people with limited life experience. In
mentoring and helping develop leadership qualities in these valuable staff members,
senior counselors are encouraged to be aware of junior counselor/camper interactions
and to step in with direct intervention or suggestions when needed.
Page 13The Power of Words or Camp and the Freedom of Speech
We all have different levels of patience and tolerance. However aggravating an
occasion may seem, there is NEVER an excuse for harsh, abusive or vulgar language.
Always remember that our actions and reactions are setting examples for the campers
and junior staff.
Campers are like sponges soaking up everything they see and hear. Parents
are very concerned with the day-to-day life of their campers and will ask what
has gone on if the cam
Language has got to be as G-rated as possible. Even though you might be
willing to say something in front of your mother, it still may not be acceptable
in other families. Use your common sense. Always choose to err on the
conservative side.
ou need to correct a camper. If a problem develops, SEE YOUR
DIVISION LEADER.
Keep an ear to the topics your campers discuss. Gently and politely censor
sensitive, offensive or hurtful conversations with a few words and a diversion.
In most cases, it is not a good idea to talk about your personal life with your
campers.
In the life of every counselor, there comes a time when conversation takes an
unexpected turn. Often, the topic relates to culturally identifiable behaviors such as
tattooing, body piercing, clothing, make-up, hairstyles, etc. On the other hand, the
topic may involve, divorce, sexual preferences or your own social life. When faced
with this concern, you are advised to re-direct the conversation and to refrain from
sharing your personal opinions,
It is our policy and philosophy to encourage campers to support each other and to
appreciate the differences in all of us. While all campers do not have to be best
friends, everyone must show respect for each other. Counselors are to stop
harassment, bullying, cliques, shunning, name calling, etc. If a concern arises,
contact your division leader(s).
Counselors are reminded that you are mentors, coaches, supporters, directors,
facilitators, organizers, teachers, guiders, and much more to your campers.
Remember though, you are not their friend or peer. Be cautious about sharing your
opinions and the ins and outs of your daily life. Especially do not engage in
fraternization (hugging, kissing, hand holding, back rubbing, overt flirting, etc.) with
fellow counselors or involve your campers in camp romances. Respect their
inexperience and immaturity by depending on your maturity and life experience to
help you be the adult.
Remember to protect yourself, your junior staff and campers by making good choices.
Do not place yourself of others in compromising situations. Do not be in isolated
places (bunks, bathrooms, far corners of camp, etc.) with individual campers. Without
having it become a burden, think about how your actions look to others.
Although Camp America recognizes a counselor's right to a life outside of camp, we
are very concerned with the challenges and dangers the Internet poses. Staff
members are prohibited from posting any information related to camp or camp
activities on the Internet. This includes but is not limited to: photos of camp, staff
Page 14members or campers, blog entries regarding camp activities or other identifying
information. Your cooperation in this is greatly appreciated.
Your campers are counting on you to provide them with a safe, secure and nurturing
In all matters of safety, appropriate behavior, etc. seek the help of your division
leader. This help may be as simple as an encouraging word of support up to and
including intervening with a difficult camper and/or contacting their family for you.
In Other Words Positive Communication with Parents and
Others
There are many times when it is necessary for counselors to meet or speak with
parents for the purpose of discussing individual campers. It is most important that at
such times we create a feeling of rapport and understanding. When speaking to a
parent, you want to be honest, but always stress the positive rather than the negative.
Below is a list of expressions that may leave a negative impression, paired with a
kindred, more positive substitute phrase.
It is the policy of Camp America that we respect the confidential nature of dealing
with campers who may have private, difficult issues that affect their camp
experience. Privacy is an important right and protecting it is a CRUCIAL
responsibility.
NEGATIVE IMPRESSION MORE POSITIVE EXPRESSION
must ................................................................. should
lazy ................................................................. can do more when he/she tries
troublemaker ................................................. disruptive
uncooperative ................................................ does not work well with others
cheats ............................................................. depends on others to do his/her work
stupid .............................................................. can do better with help
impertinent .................................................... discourteous
steals .............................................................. takes without permission
unclean ........................................................... has poor personal habits
dumbbell ........................................................ is capable of doing better
needs help ...................................................... requires cooperation of others
poor ................................................................. challenged (handicapped)
calamity ......................................................... lost opportunity
disinterested .................................................. complacent
clumsy.. ............................................................ not physically well coordinated
stubborn ........................................................... insists on having his/her own way
insolent .......................................................... outspoken
liar ................................................................... tendency to stretch the truth
wastes time .................................................... could make better use of time
sloppy ............................................................. could do neater work
mean ............................................................... difficulty getting along with others
dubious ........................................................... uncertain
profane ........................................................... uses unbecoming language
selfish ............................................................. seldom shares with others
rude ................................................................. inconsiderate of others
bashful ............................................................ reserved
show-off ......................................................... tries to get attention
Page 15Positive Discipline Guidelines
Adapted from Positive Discipline by Jane Nelsen
1. Misbehaving children are discouraged children who have mistaken ideas about
how to achieve their primary goal to belong. Address these mistaken ideas not
just the misbehavior.
2. Use encouragement to help children feel belonging. Celebrate each step in the
direction of improvement rather than focusing on mistakes.
3. A great way to help children feel encouraged is to spend special time being with
them. Even five minutes of sharing quiet conversation can make a difference.
4. Be a good listener and you will be surprised what you can learn in a few quiet
moments of sharing,
5. Have bunk meetings to solve problems with cooperation and mutual respect. This
is the key to creating a loving, respectful atmosphere while helping children
develop self-discipline, responsibility, cooperation, and problem-solving skills.
6. Give children meaningful jobs. Children feel belonging when they know they can
make a real contribution.
7. Decide together. Children have ownership, motivation, and enthusiasm when
they are included in decisions.
8. Take time for training. Make sure children understand. You may want to ask,
9. Teach and model mutual respect. Be kind and firm at the same time.
10. Proper timing will improve your effectiveness tenfold. Teach children about
cooling-off periods.
11. Get rid of the crazy idea that in order to make children do better, first you have to
make them feel worse. Do you feel like doing better when you feel humiliated?
12. Use Positive Time Out. Remember that children do better when they feel better.
13. Punishment may work if all you are interested in is stopping misbehavior for the
moment. The long-range results of punishment are resentment, rebellion,
revenge, or retreat.
14. Teach children that mistakes are wonderful opportunities to learn! Model this
yourself by using the
Recognize your mistake. 2) Reconcile -
Resolve - Focus on solutions rather than blame.
15. Focus on solutions instead of consequences. Get children involved in finding
solutions that ar 3) reasonable.
16.
17. Have fun! Make camp a safe and nurturing place that kids want to be.
Page 16Camp Life
Daily Camper Notes
Senior bunk counselors are required to complete a daily report form for the campers
in their bunk. The form is simple and should only take a few minutes each day. Our
goal is to facilitate communication between division leaders, staff and parents. The
daily report is a valuable tool in providing accurate information regarding the kind of
summer a camper is having at Camp America. This form is not a judgment about the
job a specific counselor is doing it is a means of sharing and tracking your concerns
about your campers.
Your cooperation in completing forms will greatly increase our ability to provide the
questions more accurately and to address daily problems as they occur. We are also
looking for your positive comments about campers to share, acknowledge and/or
reward. They may possibly include: overcoming challenges, improvement and
achievement (no matter how small), random acts of kindness, funny happenings,
special interests, etc.
There are boxes on the form for you to check that indicate:
Absent mark this when a child in your bunk is absent as a back-up/reminder
for your division leader. Be sure to complete attendance forms also.
Lunch
Nurse record on the form whenever a child goes to the nurse. If a child goes
to the nurse for medication on a regular basis, just check the nurse box no
comment is needed. If the visit is for an illness or injury, indicate the reason on
the form. This way your division leader will be able to follow-up at the end of
the day. Division leaders or the nurse may ask you to fill out an incident report
if needed to explain how, when and/or why the injury occurred.
Concern checking this box will indicate at a glance those items that are a
problem or worry.
Plus checking this box will let your division leader know that something good
has happened and that a reward or acknowledgment is in order.
Explanation in this box write a short description of your concern (lunch
nurse skinned knee at soccer,
concern argument at gaga with Frankie, spoke to both kids, disagreement over
game, resolved, plus jumped in the pool for the first time, encouraged
bunkmate completing difficult move at gymnastics). If you need extra space,
write on the back of the form. If you are writing a lot, you probably should be
speaking with your division leader instead.
something good to say at least once a week for every camper. It is so much easier for
your division leader to make a negative call when he or she can start off with
something positive. Should you have any questions, suggestions or ideas please share
them with your division leader.
Page 17Overnights and Late-stays
There are quite a few late-stay or overnight events throughout the camp season.
Appropriate support will be provided for each event (swim staff, leadership, meals,
snack, entertainment, etc.). All camp rules remain in effect for these programs. Only
staff members assigned to each event may be at camp during that specific time. On
occasion, other staff members are asked to help out.
Barbecue is an afternoon and evening event for boys and girls ages 4-8 years.
This event is planned by the Division 1 and 2 leaders and their counselors and is
supported by the program coordinators. The program usually includes: an
afternoon swim, free play time, dinner, organized activities, games and some form
of group entertainment. Parents arrive by 7:30 to pick up their campers. When all
your campers are picked up, check in with your division leader and you may go.
Senior and junior counselors for the participating bunks are expected to stay for
the event. Bunk staff is responsible for supervision of their campers including:
lookout at swim, changing, packing, serving dinner, clean-up after dinner,
participating in and/or running activities, as well as maintaining order during the
entertainment. Supervisory duties continue until all campers are picked-up at the
end of the evening.
Overnights are planned for various groups of boys and girls ages 9 to 14 years.
Campers (division 3 boys and division 3 girls) and their counselors remain
overnight at camp for one evening each camp season. The program is planned by
the division leaders and their counselors and is supported by the program
coordinators. The program usually includes: an afternoon swim, dinner, organized
games/sports, arts and crafts, a special game or event, campfire, breakfast and an
out of camp trip.
Senior and junior counselors for the participating bunks are expected to stay for
this event. Bunk staff members are responsible for the supervision of their
campers (even while they are sleeping). A director, program coordinator, and the
appropriate division leader will be in attendance at all times. Personnel will be
assigned to provide security for the grounds throughout the night. Each group will
be assigned a sleeping area (usually on the porch of a bunk in Boys Village). A list
of suggested clothing and bedding is sent home with the permission slips).
In the morning, senior and junior counselors are responsible for seeing that their
bunks sleeping and breakfast areas are thoroughly cleaned and that all gear is
neatly stowed for th ith the help of the bunk
staff.
With few exceptions, counselors staying overnight are not required to drive their
regular routes. Rerouting and substitute drivers make this possible.
CIT Events bi-weekly trips will be planned along with a Friday night sleepover
and a Saturday adventure.
The camp administration in collaboration with the CIT counselors and division
leader(s), plan an evening of fun, which may include: swimming, sports, games,
dinner and a dance or other special activities.
Page 18TRANSPORTATION INFORMATION
Camp America Drivers (Vans and Private Cars)
Staff members using private vehicles for transporting campers must have on file a
statement of assurance regarding the proper maintenance and inspection of their
rent driving record.
Drivers of private vehicles are required to maintain current state mandated safety and
emissions inspections. During the season vehicles are subject to spot safety
inspections including: flashers, brakes, tire wear, wipers, horn, mirrors and fluid
levels. Camp leased vans will be certified by the leasing company and inspected
during refueling. Drivers must report any noted damage or other concerns as soon as
possible.
Van drivers will be provided with an orientation session prior to taking delivery of
his/her van. This orientation will include backing-up, loading and unloading
passengers, parking, lights, flasher, wipers, mirrors and camp/state policy on the use
of cell phones in vehicles.
Pre-camp Contact with Parents
Although parents will receive a letter from camp about transportation, personal
contact with the driver is very important. See this as an opportunity to establish a
rapport with parents and to represent the caring spirit of Camp America.
All drivers are required to contact their passengers before the beginning of the
camp season. You may do this by phone or in person.
Furnish your name and telephone number. Let your passengers know when
you will leave in the morning so they may call you if they are not coming to
camp.
Ask who will be home when you arrive in the AM and PM so you will know
what to expect. Ask what you are to do if no one is home after you have made
a reasonable effort to locate someone at home. If possible, have them identify
a neighbor with whom you may leave their child.
If you get no answer when trying to introduce yourself, leave a message and
remind yourself to check back soon. Let camp know that you have tried (in
case the family calls camp). Sometimes families have gone on vacation,
changed phone numbers or you may have the wrong number by mistake.
These calls are important and parents will let us know if you have not called.
DO NOT wait until the last minute. Call or stop by as soon as you have your
driving list.
Make a trial trip to camp (following your route) to judge the time required to compete
your run with pick-ups. Allow enough time at a speed well under the speed limit, so
that you will be in camp between 8:45 and 9:15 AM. All staff is expected to have
signed in by 9:15 AM.
Page 19Transporting Campers
Establish and enforce a safety policy for your vehicle. Review these rules regularly. Be
consistent! Always keep car doors locked and use seatbelts when the car is in motion.
It is very important to follow the instructions of the transportation director regarding
seating of campers (including caution regarding front seat airbags, allowable number
of passengers and the use of car seats). In making transportation assignments, the
transportation director carefully reflects on all these considerations for each
individual. Insist that passengers remain seated at all times!
NO SMOKING is permitted in staff owned vehicles while campers are present!
NO SMOKING is permitted in camp leased vehicles at all!
Pick up campers at their door and escort them to their door at the end of the day.
Make certain that they get safely inside the house. If it is customary for someone to
meet your rider(s), do not leave any child in an empty house. Leave a note, make the
rest of your run and try again. If all else fails, take the child to a public place (fast food
restaurant, shopping center, etc.), use your cell phone to call camp (215-822-6313). If a
pattern begins to develop, speak with the parent and June Mitchell.
Pennsylvania Texting Law
All Camp Ame
texting while driving.
Prohibits as a primary offense all drivers from using an Interactive Wireless
Communication Device (IWCD) to send, read or write a text-based message.
Defines an IWCD as a wireless phone, personal digital assistant,
smartphone, portable or mobile computer or similar devices that can be
used for texting, instant messaging, emailing or browsing the Internet.
Defines a text-based message as a text message, instant message, email or
other written communication composed or received on an IWCD.
Institutes a $50 fine for convictions under this section.
Makes clear that this law supersedes and preempts any local ordinances
restricting the use of interactive wireless devices by drivers.
Should you be ticketed for this offense, paying this fine is the sole responsibility of the
driver and not Camp America Day Camp. While unexpected errors happen to
everybody, this is something each person has complete control of.
Page 20Cell Phone Use for Drivers
The use of cell phones while driving has become a serious problem for drivers of all
ages and experience levels. When driving campers to or from Camp America, the
use of cell phones for other than emergency situations or calls to and from the
office is prohibited. Drivers should pull over safely if there is a need to place or
respond to a call. You may also direct a responsible passenger to make or take calls
for you. The use of hands free devices is better than handheld but no use is best of all.
Consider
Using cell phones while driving is a very high-risk behavior, with significant
impact on crashes and society. More than 50 peer-reviewed scientific studies
have identified the risks associated with cell phone use while driving.
Drivers who use cell phones are four times more likely to be involved in a
crash. (1997 New England Journal of Medicine examination of hospital records
and 2005 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety study linking crashes to cell
phone records.)
No difference exists in the cognitive distraction between hand held and
hands free devices. (Simulator studies at the Univ. of Utah.)
Cell phone use contributes to an estimated 6 percent of all crashes, which
equates to 636,000 crashes, 330,000 injuries, 12,000 serious injuries and 2,600
deaths each year. (Harvard Center of Risk Analysis.)
80 percent of crashes are related to driver inattention. Certain activities may
be more dangerous than talking on a cell phone. However, cell phone use
occurs more frequently and for longer durations than other, riskier behaviors.
Thus, the No. 1 source of driver inattention is cell phones. (Virginia Tech 100-
car study produced for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.)
The annual cost of crashes caused by cell phone use is estimated at $43
billion. (Harvard Center for Risk Analysis.)
Talking to a passenger while driving is significantly safer than talking on a
cell phone. (University of Utah study.)
Page 21Driving to Camp
VANS: When arriving to camp, enter the long driveway from Bradley Road, drop-off
campers so they may walk between the dance building and the main office. Starting
at 7:30 AM, staff will be there to assist with unloading passengers and directing them
into camp. Enter the parking lot at the end of the drive (only turn left) and then
BACK-IN to park next to the van that has arrived just before you.
CARS: When arriving at camp, enter the lower parking lot turning right after entering
from Bradley Road. Pull toward the camp side of the lot and stop near the willow tree.
Drop off your riders and direct them to the grassy area to move into camp behind the
dance building. Pull forward and back into a space. Cars may park on either side of
the lot.
ALL DRIVERS: There are no bonuses for early arrival at camp or early drop-off in the
afternoon. NEVER EXCEED ANY LOCAL SPEED LIMITS and NEVER DRIVE AT HIGH
SPEED! Consciously strive to provide a smooth safe ride for you and your passengers.
Camp America is not responsible for any tickets or fines you may incur. Receiving a
driving violation when performing your duties as an employee of Camp America,
may be considered as cause for dismissal. DRIVE CAREFULLY! Take the job of
picking-up and bringing home your campers most seriously by driving in the safest
manner possible.
Dismissal
Once established, fair weather dismissal becomes routine. When directed, walk to
your vehicle with your riders. Division 1 campers will wait at their line-up area. After
the first few days, you may arrange for an older camper or JC to pick them up AFTER
LINE-UP on their way to the parking lot. Make sure that the midgie senior bunk
counselor knows about this arrangement. No child is to be taken from their bunk until
the end of line-up unless you have special permission from the division leader(s) in
charge of the line-up area. Although it seems that by picking up campers early you
are making dismissal faster you have to consider the negative impact on other
campers who also want to be picked- No camper is to go to the parking
area alone.
emergencies.
In the parking lot, see that your campers are in your vehicle and that everyone is
buckled-up. There are NO exceptions to the use of seatbelts. If you need help
enforcing this, see a program coordinator, division leader or June Mitchell. When you
are ready to stay with your vehicle, you may start the engine to get the air
conditioning going.
No vehicle is to leave until all vehicles are loaded and the signal is given.
DO NOT MOVE YOUR VEHICLE UNTIL DIRECTED TO DO SO !!!!!!!!!!
June Mitchell has ultimate control of the parking lots
followed by the program coordinator and/or division leader in charge.
Page 22Vans are requested to turn on headlights to indicate when you are ready to move. All
vehicles will leave the lots onto Bradley Road. You may go right or left at that point
use your blinkers to indicate which way you want to go. This will help the person
directing traffic make things move more smoothly and as quickly as possible.
Safety is our greatest consideration. On certain days drivers may be given special
considerations for parking and dismissal. You must see the transportation director
(June Mitchell) and/or the program coordinator/division leader in charge of the lot to
make these arrangements. Our program is scheduled to leave the lot as close to 4 PM
as possible. If there is a delay, be patient it means something is not right and we are
doing our best to clear it up. Do not schedule appointments so close to the end of the
camp day that you feel pressure to rush out of camp.
Campers who are being picked-up or who are staying for extended day are to go to the
Barn where they will be supervised by after-care counselors and a program
coordinator or division leader. Once all vehicles have departed, these campers will be
directed to their after-camp activities.
Rainy Day Dismissal
Dismissing in the rain is a stressful situation for everyone. Our procedures have been
established through years of trial and error. First and foremost: listen for directions
and do what you can to see that the campers also follow instructions.
When the camp administration determines the need for a rainy day dismissal any or
all of the following may happen as determined by weather conditions at the time of
Vans are driven into the flagpole driveway circle. Every attempt is made to
note the order of the vans, as they are lined-up in two or three lanes. This
information will be relayed to the administrator in charge of the dismissal.
Keys will be in the vans.
Divisions 1 and 2 will assemble in the Barn for dismissal. Senior and junior
counselors will gather their group together and see that they are seated at a
table. Specialist counselors will assist in keeping campers calm and away from
the Barn door. The quieter everyone is the easier and faster dismissal will be.
Divisions 3 and 4 will assemble in the Grand Pavilion. The administrator in
charge will keep in touch with the Barn by radio.
Van drivers will be directed to their vehicles, followed by van passengers. This
information will be radioed to the Grand Pavilion.
Car drivers and passengers will stay in the Barn and be joined by their
counterparts from the Grand Pavilion.
Once vans are loaded and checked, they will be directed to dismiss through the
parking lot to Bradley Road.
As vans are dismissed, car drivers and passengers may be directed to the
parking lot or drivers may be asked to bring their cars to the Barn. As cars are
brought to the Barn, follow directions and move up as far as possible. Car
passengers will be called as drivers pull-up (one or more at a time). Once
passengers are loaded (and buckled in) proceed carefully back toward the
parking lot and out to Bradley Road. Be cautious of other cars that are still
loading and/or pulling away.
Page 23 Campers, who are being picked-up or staying for the extended day, will remain
in the Barn and wait for directions, until all vehicles have departed.
Once the camp vehicles have left, parents who are picking-up campers will
follow regular parent pick-up procedures.
On Road Emergencies and Other Circumstances
In the event of an accident or other roadside emergency
Remove vehicle from traffic if you are able. Check in with all passengers.
Keep all campers in the vehicle if it is safe; otherwise, remove them to safety away from
the vehicle and/or traffic.
Direct someone to call for immediate medical aid, if needed.
Call camp at 215-822-6313. DO NOT call parents.
Get contact information from all witnesses possible.
Discuss accident ONLY with police
If your arrival in camp is delayed for any reason (lost, traffic, delayed camper pick-up,
etc.), use your/a mobile phone or stop and call the camp office (215-822-6313). We
worry about you as well as the campers. When you call camp, we are able to call
parents or to field their calls about your late arrival.
children who may become
carsick. Motion sickness can be alleviated, to some degree, by driving gently and
general prohibition of smoking
alleviating motion sickness is also a good reason not to smoke.
NO transportation changes (temporary or permanent) may occur unless you have
specific instructions from the office. If parents ask you to make changes, remind
them that they must contact the camp office. You may not change your route unless
the transportation director (June Mitchell) has approved the change.
- are discouraged. In any event, the transportation director (June Mitchell)
must approve all stops. ALL parents must be notified well in advance.
Directions for Van Drivers
Attendance: Take attendance in the morning and afternoon. Let the office know
when a camper has not come on the van with you. Check with the office before going
on the van to see if any camper has a change in transportation for the day. A senior
staff member will check with you before releasing your vehicle.
Passenger Protocol: Campers and staff riding on a van must choose or be assigned a
seat, and must remain seated for the entire trip. No one is to stand, kneel or lean over
seats or the aisle. The aisles must be kept clear of all personnel belongings. Noise
must be kept to a conversational level. Treat all campers equally do not show
favoritism toward anyone. When available, seatbelts must be used by all passengers.
Report to the office any camper whose behavior disrupts the smooth, efficient and
safe functioning of the trip to or from camp. Speak to the transportation director,
division leader or program coordinator before speaking to
behavior.
Page 24Be aware of what is happening on your vehicle. Campers may not call or reach out of
windows, throw things, holler to other campers at the opposite end of the bus/van,
etc. Speak to campers clearly and firmly stating what it is that the camper(s) should
control. Separate campers who are not getting along. Seat disruptive passengers near
you. Do not hesitate to pull over and stop to deal with problems on your van.
Emergencies (see above for additional information): In the case of an emergency, your
main obligation is to see to the safety and well being of the campers. If possible, stay
in the vehicle. Check to see that everyone is all right. Secure care for anyone who is
injured. Use your cell phone or have someone contact camp immediately (215-822-
6313). Do not discuss the situation with anyone except a police officer before you
speak with camp. Above all else, REMAIN CALM!
If you must move away from the vehicle, get campers away from traffic and take
attendance. Assign oldest campers to help with watching the younger campers. Stay
together. Follow the directions of emergency personnel. Wait until camp personnel
arrive to assist you.
Policies and Procedures for Trips Off Camp Property
No one may leave camp unless wearing a Camp America shirt. This allows both
campers and staff to be identified at a glance.
When leaving camp, each group leader is responsible for leaving a list of the campers
and staff traveling with you. For bunk trips, be sure attendance has been taken and
turned into the office.
When leaving camp property, the following camper/staff ratios are to be maintained:
under age 4 .. do not go on trips
under age 5 .. 1 staff member for every 6 campers
over age 5 .... 1 staff member for every 10 campers
Divide the group so that each staff member will know which campers they are
responsible for. The senior counselor is ultimately responsible for all campers in
his/her bunk or team.
Trips out-of-camp will load in the long driveway or parking lot behind the dance
building. Campers traveling in cars or vans must use seatbelts. The transportation
director will determine who needs car/booster seats. Counselors are responsible for
maintaining order on buses (not the driver). In vans or cars, when the counselor is
behavior. The lead driver will check with the transportation director or trip
coordinator for directions and will share this information with all drivers in the group.
When going out of camp, each vehicle must have a cell phone. Let the office know the
number of the phone you will be using in your vehicle.
Groups who are taking lunch will be provided sandwiches, chips, a dessert and juice
for all campers and staff. Sandwiches should be ordered the day before your trip and
will be packed in coolers with cold packs to keep them safe. Check with the kitchen
to see that you have cups, napkins and trash bags. Group leaders are responsible for
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