FAQs

Q: Can my child specialize in a specific activity such as tennis, golf, sailing, etc.?

A: All campers have the opportunity to select the activities of their choice and may spend a large portion of their day pursuing a special interest. The Varsity Club (Seafarer) and the Seniors Program (Sea Gull) provide such opportunities for campers who have shown a superior level of well-rounded achievement in the rank system. This program option allows campers to spend both program periods each day on an activity in a learning, teaching and assisting role.

Q: Is there religious emphasis at camp?

A: Yes. Sea Gull's and Seafarer's religious emphasis is based on Judeo - Christian principles which permeate all programs and activities. Nightly devotions and Sunday Worship Services are conducted. All campers are expected to participate with their counselors. Services are non - denominational with no intent to teach doctrine or change one's religious beliefs. Our focus is on living the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.

Q: How do you handle homesickness at camp?

A: Mild cases of homesickness are normal when a child is making adjustments in an unfamiliar environment. Our staff training includes sessions on how to be aware of and to encourage children through this period of growth. In unusual cases, homesickness may persist. In such cases, additional camp personnel will support each child and communicate with parents. Parents may help by sending reassuring letters without promising to come and pick up their child. Developing independence is a goal of the camp experience. We will work hard to achieve this end.

Q: Can my child test out of daily swimming instruction?

A: Our goal is for every camper to be competent and confident in the water. Once a camper has completed this goal, he or she may test out of instructional swim and spend this time on other activities. To test out of instructional swim, a camper must demonstrate swimming endurance, stroke proficiency and basic lifesaving skills. Campers in Camps III and IV (approximate ages 12-16) have the option to test out of instruction. Younger campers will continue to develop their swimming abilities. All campers have the opportunities to participate in programs such as water polo, synchronized swimming, swim team and diving team.

Q: Will I receive any information from my child's counselor?

A: Yes, you will receive three progress reports from your child's counselor while your child is at camp for the four-week session. For our one-week Starter Camp and two-week Mariners programs, your child's counselor will send one progress report on your child's experience.

Q: How does the camp handle food allergies?

A: Information regarding food allergies should be included on the health form. An additional letter with specific food substitutes should be mailed to the Camp Director prior to May 1st. Our Food Service Director will monitor and make adjustments for these diets at each meal. Campers should also accept responsibility for adhering to their specific diets.

Q: Where can I purchase nylon wind suit pants for boating and skiing?

A: Most dance, sports and exercise stores carry these pants. They are referred to as warm up pants or wind pants.

Q: May children leave camp during the session?

A: Except for scheduled program trips supervised by camp personnel, campers may leave camp only with their parents or legal guardians. In order to leave with another designated person, that person must be at least 21 years of age or a relative, and written parental permission, prior to camp's opening, listing the designated person's name, must be on file in the camp office. Campers are discouraged from leaving camp for extended periods of time.

Q: Are camp uniforms required?

A: Seafarer campers should have at least one Middie and Sea Gull campers should have at least one Sea Gull T-shirt. Campers may purchase optional camp clothing, but a comfortable personal wardrobe should be adequate.

Q: Can my child buy extra camp clothing during the session?

A: Yes, if the amount charged does not exceed the agreed-upon limit in his or her camp spending money account.

Q: How do I decide what size of camp clothes to order?

A: Order your child's regular size. Most clothing is 100% preshrunk cotton. All ordered clothing can be tried on opening day and may be exchanged at that time for a different size if necessary.