Summer Camp is so much more than childcare. Camp is a community in which children learn new skills, make meaningful friendships, and know they belong.
 
In many ways Camp is its own little universe! Camp has its own culture, complete with traditions, songs, social quirks, and even its own language (who the heck is the Princess Pat – and what’s a rick-a-bam-boo?!?).
 
Every year new parents come to their first week of camp and are blown away with the rush of activity, scheduling information, and offerings that come with attending our Summer Day Camps. This blog is dedicated to preparing you for the nuances of Camp Life.
 
Although all of this information can be found in our Parent Handbook, below are the basic things that will help every parent and camper feel prepared for a successful week of Camp:
 
 
Before Camp
 
You can help your child’s success at Camp by getting them, and yourself, acquainted with Camp through scheduling a tour, visiting us online on our Webpage, facebook, and Instagram: @campwinnebago.
 
Just like adults, Campers will feel more confident if they know a bit about what they'll experience and what to PACK!
 
Here’s what to bring every day:

• Swim Suit
• Towel
• Close-Toed Shoes
• Water Bottle
• Bug Spray
• Sun Screen

 
Here’s what should stay home:

• PHONES
• Electronics
• Toys,
• New or Expensive Clothing

 
Arriving at Camp
 
Camp drop off at all of our locations is from 6:45a to 8:30a. No matter what location you are arriving at look for our Staff and Flags – that’s where the sign in table will be! This is where you will sign your camper in and let Camp Staff know about any important updates about your child.
 
The Camp Dance:
Every morning I have the good fortune of watching the “Camp Dance”; campers getting out of their vehicles, stretching their arms out wide and spinning in circles while caring parents apply a glaze of bug spray and healthy dose of sunscreen. Once armed with thez defensive liquids they throw on their backpacks and run to the staff who are already leading activities!
 
 
The Camp Week:
The typical Day at Camp starts with morning ceremonies, a seemingly endless series of rotations between camp activities, group games, crafts, songs, skits, specialties, and challenges, lunch, some more activities, and then a snack and closing ceremony. Phew.
 
Thursday is Family Night and optional Overnight.
 
Family Night:
We strongly encourage ALL FAMILIES to experience the magic of camp with their children and join us for our Family Nights. This is a wonderful opportunity to get to know the Counselors and hear stories about the successes that our campers have enjoyed throughout the week.
 
Buses do not run on Thursday afternoons at our Camp Winnebago location. Because Family Night is so important to the Camp experience we invite all of our families to pick up on location and join us for dinner and entertainment!
 
The Overnight:
If you and your child feel ready for a night away from home, our Camp Overnight is a memory-packed experience that your child will never forget! Campers who stay the night are exposed to some of our coolest traditions where they truly gain a sense of independence and adventure while under the watchful eyes of our caring staff.
 
 
Here’s what to bring to the overnight:

• Warm PJ’s
• Sleeping bag
• Clothes for Friday
• Pillow
• Blanket
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste