Arrival and Dismissal Procedures
What piece of paperwork will parents need to sign when dropping off their children for camp each morning, And what verbal confirmation will you require from them?
Signed Attendance sheet and verbal confirmation of Covid Symptom Checker
Where should staff position themselves when walking with their group in the woods?
One staff member at the front of the group, and one staff member at the very back of the group (staff should always be the first and last person).
When should you notify the Director about the weather?
if you notice that the weather is turning (darkening sky, distant lightning or thunder, unexpected high winds), notify the camp director right away. The camp director will assess the situation and determine if it is necessary for groups to return to the high school.
What are the three types of consequences when disciplining a child and when should they each be used?
Natural Consequences-everyday minor offenses.
Logical consequences - more recurring or disruptive behavior.
Problem Solving - getting campers to help solve the problem by coming up with their own solutions.
What things are you required to bring with you every day when entering the woods?
Med kit-fully stocked
Cell phone- fully charged
Weekly attendance sheet
Contact numbers card
Any materials you need for the day. (art supplies, books, magnifying glasses, etc...)
By what time do you need to let Liz know your attendance number?
By 9:15
What are camp's policies regarding the application of bug repellant and sun screen?
Kids should come to camp with them already applied. If a child needs another application during the camp day, they should put it on them selves. use environmentally safe products.
In the event of a serious illness or injury, who do you contact and in what order?
Then what should you and your co counselor do?
1) call 911
2) call Park Watch
3) call the Camp Director.
Campers/staff are further instructed to remain in place and wait for authorities to arrive. While you wait, one staff member should remain with the injured camper and the other staff member should watch after the rest of your campers, keeping them calm and occupied.
What is the most crucial concept of successful behavior management?
CONNECTION!
What are staff to camper ratios?
1:5 for 4-6 year olds
1:10 for 7-12 year olds
When should you tell a parent about something that happened at camp that day (child got scrapped, had a disagreement with another camper, behavior issues, etc)?
Who else should you notify prior to talking to parent?
That very same Day at dismissal.
You should Let Liz know if there was a problem with child so if parent comes to her, she knows what they are talking about.
What should you do if a person hiking in the Fells (not from camp) begins to interact with your group?
Politely say hi and acknowledge them, and let them know that we are a camp group and that we teach the kids to not interact with anyone who is not a camper or staff member.
What are the 4 types of child abuse and If you suspect one of your campers is being abused, what should you do?
Emotional abuse
Physical Abuse
Sexual abuse
Neglect
If child abuse is suspected (even just a little), tell Liz immediately.
What are the four things we NEVER do when disciplining children
1. Use corporal punishment, including spanking, this is strictly prohibited
2. Subject any camper to cruel or severe punishment, humiliation, or verbal abuse
3. Deny any camper food, water or shelter
4. Punish any child for soiling, wetting or not using the toilet.
What are three signs of dehydration? Bonus point if you get at least five.
Thirst
Dark urine (very yellow)
Irritability
Dizziness or fainting
Muscle cramps or weakness
Less frequent urination
Dry skin or lack of skin elasticity
Dry mouth
Fatigue, headache or confusion
What must you do if someone new is picking up a camper for the first time?
You must check their license or state issued photo ID to confirm who they are and that they are on the camper’s list of authorized pick-ups.
In what ways are staff permitted to use their cell phones while with campers?
You may use your phone to look something up for your group (plant identification, animal tracks, etc)
Using your phone as a stopwatch for group games or as a clock for proper time management is also permitted, though watches or fitbits are ideal.
You will need your phone to call Liz, the DCR or 911 in case of an emergency.
To check in with another group to find out their location. (this should be done minimally)
Or as camera to take a cool group shot (that you share only with camp director)
What are three serious types of healthcare emergencies that you should be on alert for?
Anaphylactic shock (bee sting, bug bite, Food allergy of some kind) (Epi Pen)
Asthma Attack (inhaler)
Diabetic episode -low blood sugar, or hypoglycemic
(insulin or sugar)
What are the six parts of Fells Forest Camps Camper Code of Conduct?
I will Behave in ways that are respectful and safe for all campers and staff
I will share and take turns
I will communicate and collaborate with other campers and staff.
I will respect all wildlife.
I will keep flowers in the ground.
I will share our outdoor spaces.
What are three ways we can help prevent the abuse of a child at camp?
1. Good supervision (rule of 3, active engagement with your campers, etc.)
2. Positive and supportive camp culture among staff and campers.
3. Holding ourselves and each other accountable is the norm.
What should you do if someone comes to pick up a camper who is not on the authorized pick up list
DO NOT DISMISS THE CAMPER and contact the camp director immediately.
What are three things you can do to keep your campers safe while having fun in the woods?
Create boundaries
Do headcount often
Point out/avoid trail hazards (glass, sharp jagged rocks, etc.)
Walk us through what a counselor should do if there is a missing camper in your group
Determine the length of time the camper may have been missing. By asking these questions:
a. Is the group moving, or has it been stationary for any length of time?
b. When was the last interaction between the camper and an instructor?
C. When was the last interaction with other campers [note that younger campers in your group may not be a reliable source for this information]?
Ascertain for certain that the camper is not in the immediate vicinity
One instructor (two if in a 3-instructor group) should begin to search for the lost camper within a limited “bubble” of nearby area
Contact the camp director and current on-site supervisor.
Assemble a physical description of the lost child
What should you do if you have camper who is continuously disruptive to the group, someone you have already worked with but their behavior isn't changing.
Speak to Liz or a Health Care Supervisor at end of day. If causing an immediate problem o unsafe situation, call or text for help ASAP.
What is camp's photo policy?
Staff should take photos-but pay attention to campers who don't have permission to be photographed.
All staff are strictly prohibited from posting photos and any other form of social media that include images of campers, mention campers by name, or say inappropriate things about a camper or parent.
Staff may not share photos directly with parents.
Staff are encouraged to take great photos! If you take a good group photo or nature shot, please share them with the staff responsible for collecting camper photos and they will post or share with families on camp's website.