Ratios
What is the minimum counselor-to-child ratio for children aged 3 to 4 years old in a WI DCF day camp?
1 counselor for every 4 children (1:4)
What is the primary focus orientation for a WI DCF day camp's program?
The outdoors and the natural environment.
What is the minimum indoor temperature required for an enclosed building used by children at a WI DCF day camp?
67 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is the minimum age for a counselor who is counted in determining the counselor-to-child ratio?
At least 18 years old.
A WI DCF day camp provides care and supervision for how many children, aged 3 years and older?
4 or more children.
For children aged 7 years and over, what is the required counselor-to-child ratio in a WI DCF day camp?
1 counselor for every 18 children (1:18)
A WI DCF day camp must have a written plan for emergency situations, including what three specific types of emergencies?
Fire, tornado, or natural disaster, and lost or missing children, and accidents or illness. (Also extreme heat/cold, allergic reactions, human-caused events like threats to the camp.)
Where must materials harmful to children, such as cleaning supplies or pesticides, be stored?
In original, covered, and labeled containers in areas not accessible to children.
Besides age, what is a basic educational requirement for a camp counselor?
A high school diploma or its equivalent.
What is the specific chapter of the Wisconsin Administrative Code that governs Day Camps for Children?
DCF 252.
If a day camp has a mixed-age group, how are the counselor-to-child ratios adjusted?
On a pro rata basis, according to age.
What is the minimum age requirement for a camp director in a WI DCF day camp?
At least 21 years of age.
How often must fire extinguishers be inspected by a qualified person at a day camp?
Once per year.
Beyond basic qualifications, what type of training is specifically required for any person providing care and supervision to children under 5 years of age?
Department-approved training in Abusive Head Trauma (AHT) prevention.
If a day camp is located in a residence, what additional individuals must complete a background check request form besides the applicant?
Any household member 10 years of age and above.
According to WI DCF regulations, when 9 or more children are present at a day camp, how many adults must be available at all times?
At least 2 adults, with at least one being a counselor.
What document must a day camp submit to the DCF, outlining their training plans for staff?
A written pre-camp training plan.
What is the maximum temperature milk and other perishable foods should be maintained at for safe storage?
At or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
What specific credential or degree is one way for a camp director to meet their qualification requirements?
The Wisconsin Afterschool and Youth Development Credential, OR a bachelor's degree in a camp-related field (e.g., outdoor education, recreation, child development).
What does DCF stand for in the context of Wisconsin day camp regulations?
Department of Children and Families.
Can support staff, such as a cook or maintenance worker, be counted in the counselor-to-child ratios?
Yes, but only if they meet the qualifications of a camp counselor and are giving full attention to the care and supervision of children.
If meals are prepared or heated on the premises, what three basic kitchen items must be present?
A microwave or stove, a refrigerator, and a sink.
When running water is not available, what three characteristics must a covered drinking water container have?
Easily distinguishable from other containers, constructed of food-grade material, and suitable for pouring or equipped with a faucet.
How long must a camp director have supervisory or administrative experience in an organized camp or children's program to meet one of the qualification options?
Two or more years.
True or False: Day camps may operate year-round if their programming is primarily oriented to the out-of-doors.
True