Summer Camp Family Handbook Table of Contents 2
General Information
10 Creating a Healthy and Safe Camp
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Registration Information
12 Health Care
4 Expectations at Camp
13 Saftey at Camp
6 Check In & Check Out
14 Tips and Tricks
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Preparing Your Camper
15 Family Camping at Silver Meadows
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Preparing Yourself
16 Virtual Summer Camp
8 Homesickness 9 Communication
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Technology Tips
18 Trading Post
General Information At camp girls will discover new things about themselves and their values and use their knowledge and skills to explore the world around them. They will connect with new friends and caring adult mentors in a safe and nurturing environment. Girls will return to their communities prepared to take action and make their world a better place. Our Mission Girl Scouting builds girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.
The Girl Scout Promise On my honor, I will try: To serve God and my country, To help people at all times, And to live by the Girl Scout Law.
The Girl Scout Law I will do my best to be honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, courageous and strong, and responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.
2021 Important Dates March 4.................... Virtual Camp Registration Opens April 1....................... In-person Camp Registration Opens May 1......................... Go-Getter Registration Ends June 6 - July 2........... Virtual Summer Camp June 20 - July 2....... Latonka Resident Camp July 11 - August 6.... Finbrooke Resident Camp July 24 - August 15... Family Camping at Silver Meadows
Go-Getter Package Our Go-Getter Package includes go-getter pricing and a free summer camp buff! To take advantage of this offer, register and pay the $40 non-refundable deposit (even if paying with Cookie Credit) by May 1 at 11:59 p.m. CST. On May 2, on-time pricing will go into effect—all sessions will increase by $15, and the free camp item will no longer be available. Our Go-Getter Package is only available for igirl experiences at Finbrooke and Latonka Resident Camps. The Go-Getter Package is not available for Virtual Summer Camp or Silver Meadows Family Camp.
Family Information Session Have questions about camp? Join us for a virtual information session to learn all about this summer’s opportunities. Families will have the chance to ask questions and hear from GSMH’s Program Experience Manager, Resident Camp Director, and Safety and Operations Specialist. Register online!
Online Webinar | March 25 | 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
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Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland
Registration Information Registration
Girl Scout Cookie Credit
Summer camp registration opens March 4 for virtual camps, and April 1 for in-person sessions. Registrations will be accepted until a session is full, and sessions are on a first-come, first-served basis. Girls must be registered Girl Scouts at the time of registration. Visit our website to register. In-person Summer Camp registration will open on April 1. This includes all sessions at Finbrooke Program Center, Latonka Program Center, Silver Meadows Family Camp.
Girl Scout Cookie Credit can be used to pay for summer camp (including the non-refundable deposit). Cookie Credit is non-refundable, unless a cancellation is requested due to a serious family emergency or illness verified in writing by a doctor, or a camp session is canceled by GSMH. If you would like to use Cookie Credit but do not receive it by the time you register for camp, the deposit is still required; after your Cookie Credit is received you may apply it to the camp balance. If the amount of Cookie Credit used plus the amount of your deposit exceeds the total cost of your camp balance, you will receive a refund for the overage. Due to the volume of these requests, it may take up to two weeks to receive your refund.
Changes, Cancellations, and Refunds A $40 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration for any in-person camp session. A $29 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration for any virtual camp session. Each program session has a minimum number of campers required. If the minimum number of campers is not met, the program will be cancelled. Campers will have the opportunity to move their registration to another session, if possible. Camp registration fees, including the non-refundable deposit, will be refunded if a camp session is cancelled by GSMH and the camper cannot attend another session, or if a camper is unable to attend their session due to health reasons. To request a program session change, parents or guardians should contact the Program Support Coordinator at 877-312-4764 or email info@ girlscoutsmoheartland.org to see if the change is possible. All program session changes must be made at least two weeks before the camp program session starts. Changes requested after two weeks before camp program session starts will be considered on a case-by-case basis. If a camper fails the health screening upon arrival at an in-person camp session, they will, they will not be able to attend that session. Every effort will be made to place her in another camp session at a later date. If this is not possible, a full refund will be granted – including the $40 nonrefundable deposit. Excluding the reasons above, a refund will not be issued for cancellations made less than two weeks before their camp session, for no-shows, or if a camper leaves a session already in progress due to homesickness, behavioral issues, or parental request.
Financial Assistance To apply for financial assistance, please submit a 2021 Summer Camp Financial Assistance Request. Financial assistance will only be granted for one session per camper, and does not cover the nonrefundable deposit, which needs to be paid at the time the Financial Assistance Request is submitted.
Lost and Found Items All lost and found items will be sent to the nearest service center, where they will remain until the end of August. After August, all unclaimed lost and found will be discarded or donated to an appropriate charity. If you are missing something, please call the service center closest to the camp attended. GSMH is not responsible for lost or stolen personal belongings, money, or any items left at camp.
Free Week of Camp The Free Week of Camp Certificate earned through the 2020 or 2021 Girl Scout Cooke Program expires on August 2, 2021. Value is not to exceed $350. An email with instructions will be sent to to recipients. If you already paid the non-refundable deposit then the deposit will be refunded when you register for camp.
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Expectations at Resident Camp Girl Scout Camp Program At Girl Scout summer camp, girls develop leadership skills as they discover themselves, connect with nature, and take action with their new friends! Girl input is utilized to personalize the program activities for each camp session. Campers spend about half their time participating in activities related to the theme of their camp session and the other half participating in general camp activities (swimming, hiking, etc.). Campers will experience group living by sharing living quarters with other girls in a camp community. Everyone is expected to help take care of camp by dividing up the camp chores (kapers). Campers will participate in age appropriate all-camp kapers (flag ceremony, picking up litter from the ground, and prepping the dining area before and after a meal) and are expected to help clean their living quarters, unit bathrooms, and unit campsite. Every camper will go home with a summer camp patch and a badge report card!
A Typical Day at Camp 7:00 a.m. Rise and Shine, Flag Ceremony
*8:00 a.m.
Inclusion We welcome all girls at summer camp and will work with families to provide reasonable accommodations for your camper. Accommodations could be dietary, physical, medical, social, or emotional. Please contact us at 877312-4764 or info@girlscoutsmoheartland.org with specific considerations in advance so we can best serve your camper.
Breakfast
Camp Staff
9:00 a.m. Unit Kaper Time/ Morning Activities
*12:00 p.m. Lunch
1:00 p.m. Turtle Time (Rest Hour)
2:00 p.m. Afternoon Activities
*6:00 p.m. Dinner, Flag Ceremony
7:00 p.m. Evening Activities
9:00 p.m. Unit Time
10:00 p.m. Lights Out * Meal times will be staggered due to cohorting. See more on pg. 11.
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Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland
GSMH hires mature, enthusiastic, innovative individuals who embrace our mission and values. We do not discriminate against any employee because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, age, disability, national origin, citizenship, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identification, genetic information, or any legally protected status. All members of our staff are at least 18 years old and are selected for their experience, leadership ability, compassion, and commitment in putting campers first! All our potential staff members go through a comprehensive screening and interview process, including background and reference checks. After becoming employed, staff members participate in an intensive, week-long training program in child development, group management, camping skills, conflict resolution, bullying prevention, CPR/First Aid, and specialty areas. Many return year after year because we know that retaining our staff is important to your camper’s experience. Camp counselors are dedicated to giving campers an amazing camp experience and keeping girls safe. It is extremely important for campers to talk to their camp counselors about any concerns, worries, or needs. Communication between campers and counselors is encouraged to provide the best experience possible!
Camp Program Modifications Our goal is to continue to offer a traditional camp experience while staying safe this summer. There will be modifications made to camp, but we will try our best to balance typical camp activities, programming, and traditions with the important task of communicable disease prevention. See the Healthy and Safe Camp on page 10 for more information on modified health and safety measures we are taking this summer.
Sleeping Arrangements Girls of comparable age are organized in groups living in campsites consisting of cabins, platform tents, perma tents, and treehouses. Girl Scouts of the USA requires that staff have separate sleeping arrangements from campers. The staff are housed in a cabin or tent, etc. in close proximity of the campers. The girls will be shown where the staff will sleep, in case they need the staff at any time of the day or night when they are in the campsite. Girls will be notified of their sleeping unit assignment upon arrival at check-in day. All units include beds and mattresses or cots, and a unit shelter with fire circles for campfires. All units have nearby bathrooms and access to showers. We have reduced the capacity for our sleeping structures at camp by 50% to allow for proper physical distancing.
Camp Buddies
Camp Names
At resident camp, we place campers into cabins by program session. Summer Camp is a place to make new friends, as many girls come to camp not knowing anyone. Camp staff are trained to help girls make new friends, but if girls would like to be placed in a cabin with a buddy, both girls must register for the same session, and both indicate their buddy choice when they register.
Ever wonder why the counselors at camp have such fun names? The relationship between counselors and campers is a special one. Calling the counselors ‘Mrs.’ is too formal for the camp setting, and counselors can be advisors/teachers/helpers/guardians—so calling counselors by their first names is too familiar. Camp names started as a great way to handle the ‘what to call them’ question, and have now become a time-honored tradition. Counselors choose names that remind them of things they like or places they’re from, or sometimes just use a nickname from their own childhood. At camp, you may meet a Snickers, a Sunshine, a Boston, or a Pumpkin Pie. Campers do not get to use camp names until they have completed their first leadership program.
Camp Behavior Everyone is expected to live by the Girl Scout Promise and Law while at camp. We expect girls who attend to fully participate in the life of camp – to attend activities, to share in daily responsibilities, and to sincerely work to get along with others. The Camp Director and staff will do everything possible to help girls adjust to camp life. However, if a behavior or discipline problem becomes serious or disruptive, parents will be contacted. GSMH reserves the right to send home from camp any camper who consistently exhibits unsuitable behavior, endangers herself or others in the camp community, or whose actions towards others are unacceptable. Inappropriate behaviors include but are not limited to: biting, hitting, bullying, excessive profanity, running away, refusing to participate in programs, not following staff directions, or creating an unsafe environment. On these rare occasions, the parent will be responsible for coming to pick up their camper as soon as possible, and no refund for camp fees will be given. Every camper and parent/guardian will sign a Camper Behavior Agreement to acknowledge the behavior expectations they will and will not exhibit at summer camp.
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Check In & Check Out *Please refer to your confirmation packet for most updated details, which will be emailed after the registration deadline for your camp session. Everyone is excited for the first day of resident camp. Every effort is taken to make the check-in process as efficient as possible. However, several steps must be taken to ensure that your camper has a healthy and fun camp and safe experience. There will be forms that need to be filled out before arriving to resident camp. These will be emailed out after the registration deadline for your girl’s camp session.
Visitors We ask that all campers and staff members arrive to camp healthy, well, and masked! We are re-vamping our check-in process this year as a part of our additional health and safety practices. Check in will be similar to a drive - thru experience where campers will be driven through stations for health screening and luggage drop-off before saying a quick goodbye in the car and hopping out to join in on the fun! There will be an opportunity to meet the Camp Director at our Family Information Session on March 25 7:00-8:00 p.m. You can expedite the check in process by making sure your camper has her backpack with her Super Six items listed on page 14 and the items listed below. • Wearing socks and closed-toe shoes • Complete the digital Health History and Medication forms prior to traveling to camp. This includes documenting any medication instructions. • Bring all medications in original containers in a Ziplock bag. • Letters with camper’s name and the day of the week they should receive it. See more about communications with your camper on pg. 9 • Trading Post money – cash or Cookie Credit The last stop will be meeting your camper’s Unit Leader where you can ask any last-minute questions or share any pertain information. You will receive a detailed confirmation packet with the address and phone number of the camp.
Arrival and Departure Times Sunday Start Check-in: 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Monday End Check-out: 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday Start Check-in: 9:00-10:00 a.m.
Friday End Check-out: 2:30 p.m.
Full Week Sessions Check-in: 2:00-4:00 p.m. Check-out: 2:30 p.m.
One Day Sessions Check-in: 9:00 - 10:00 a.m. Check-out: 6:00 p.m.
*Times are subject to change. Please refer to your confirmation packet.
Departure When you arrive for pick-up, staff will be there to guide you through the drive-thru experience. Similar to our check-in process this year, additional health and safety practices have been implemented for the safety of campers, families and staff. You will receive your camper’s end of session pack, containing their badge report card, camp patch, any trading post money, and other pertinent information. The person picking up each camper will be required to show a photo ID. No campers will be released to unauthorized persons or persons without a photo ID. You will be advised as to where you can pick up your camper’s belongings, please drive cautiously and follow traffic guidelines while exiting camp. On time pick-up eases your camper’s nerves during the anticipation of going home. If you are running late, please call the camp office, so we can let your camper know you are on your way and keep her busy until you arrive.
Special Arrangements Your camper’s program activities begin immediately, and we don’t want her missing out on this valuable time to get to know her fellow campers and settle into camp life. Campers who must arrive late, depart early, or leave during a session are asked to make this request to the Camp Director prior to the camp session. Requests can be made by emailing info@girlscoutsmoheartland.org or calling 877.312.4764 See Healthy and Safe Camp on page 10. 6
Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland
Preparing Your Camper One of the primary goals of summer camp is to offer progressive experiences that allow girls to develop new skills and confidence. Coming to camp and being away from home and family for an extended time provides a great opportunity for growth. It is important that each camper be able to care for her own general well-being. While counselors are always there to support them, campers are expected to eat meals, get enough sleep, shower, groom, dress themselves, and communicate with camp staff. Help your camper get ready for camp by being excited! Let her know that you want her to have fun and learn new things. Emphasize that your camper is “going” to camp, instead of saying you are “sending” her. If your camper has any anxiety about the dark, bugs, night noises, or being away from home, please start preparing her for these things now. • • • • •
Have overnights at friends’ or relatives’ homes. Plan some outdoor activities as a family to get your camper used to hot and humid weather. Encourage your camper to pick out her own clothes and help with packing. Pick out a security item like a teddy bear or blanket to bring. Help her learn how to make her bed, set the table, and clean up after meals.
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Make sure she is comfortable doing personal care routines like showering, brushing teeth/hair, and dressing on her own. Homesickness is normal. Discuss what it may feel like and suggest ways to help your camper overcome it if she experiences it. Talk to other parents and friends who have attended camp, so you know what to expect. Write notes/letters for your camper and bring them to camp to be delivered to her during the week.
Preparing Yourself It’s completely normal for parents and guardians to have mixed feelings when their camper goes away – whether it’s their first time away or not. Remember, you have chosen a fun and safe camp and your camper will be well cared for. The staff is trained to deal with any problem from homesickness to First Aid. Try not to let your camper know how much you are going to miss her. Be strong! You don’t want her to worry about you while she’s at camp. The Girl Scout Motto is “Be Prepared.” By following these easy tips, your camper will be prepared for anything during her camp adventure. • •
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Pack your camper’s possessions in a duffel bag or plastic tub with a secure lid. Encourage your camper to pack everything into one suitable sized container for their session. This helps ensure things do not get lost. Mark all clothing and equipment with the camper’s name, including luggage or tubs. Pack comfortable, lightweight clothing that is easy to clean. Clothes WILL get dirty at camp. Have your camper’s backpack packed with her Super Six* and check-in materials when you leave home.
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Have your camper wear well fitting, sturdy shoes. Campers wear socks with sturdy shoes every day due to the poison ivy, gravel, tree roots, and other natural hazards at camp. Sandals/flip flops may only be worn in the shower. Remember to pack extra clothing/shoes in case of rainy weather. Zip Lock bags and garbage bags are great for keeping items dry and keeping wet items from leaking on clothes. *Super Six items are listed on page 14.
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Homesickness Though not very often, common, or long-lasting, homesickness can occur at camp. We have experienced staff that are trained to work with homesick campers. If it occurs, homesickness usually happens in the beginning of the week and quickly dissipates as the camper gets settled in to camp life. The first few hours and days are a normal transition phase for everyone and it is typical for girls to all adjust at different paces. There are a few things a parent can do ahead of time to help prevent long-lasting homesickness: •
Explain what homesickness is and let her know that it is normal, what it might feel like, and that it will go away.
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Consider preparing letters and bringing them to check in to be delivered to your girl throughout the week.
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Give her some ideas of things she can do to help alleviate homesick feelings, like:
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Do not suggest that she call you if she is feeling homesick. Often, calling home makes homesickness worse and campers do not have access to the camp phone.
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Lastly, should your daughter ask, “what if I get homesick?” remind her of the many people at camp who are there to help.
Think about the fun things you will be doing later. Take a special stuffed animal or book that makes her feel secure. Talk to your counselor or a friend.
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Show confidence that your daughter will do great and will not experience too much homesickness.
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Let her know that you want her to have a good time and make new friends.
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Avoid bargaining. Saying something like, “if you’re really homesick, I promise I’ll come pick you up right away,” sends the message to your daughter that you are not confident in her ability to succeed.
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Provide her with stationary and self-addressed and stamped envelopes to write you notes.
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Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland
Here are a few things to remember once you have checked your camper in at summer camp: • Once you get your camper moved in, try to leave as soon as possible so your camper can start making new friends and get involved with activities. • Keep upbeat when you say goodbye. Save your tears until you get to the car where you camper won’t see you. • Be aware that your camper’s counselors will engage the girls in singing songs and playing games as soon as you leave.
Communication Today’s campers have grown up in a world connected by cell phones and technology more than ever before. An important hallmark of camp is to balance this reality with a high-quality outdoor experience aimed at inspiring respect for the natural world. To provide this important experience, we require campers to leave all electronics at home. Any cell phones, iPods, hand-held game devices, e-readers, iPads, tablets, or technology objects brought to camp by campers will be collected and stored in the Camp Director’s office until the camper is picked up. We also highly discourage campers from bringing hair dryers or curling irons. We appreciate your family’s efforts to support this important requirement! We are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged phones and other items.
Photos
Letters are the best form of communication with your camper during camp. To ensure that your camper receives a letter each day, bring letters to checkin. Include pre-addressed and stamped envelopes for your camper to write back! The Resident Camp addressed will be included in confirmation packet.
While we do our best to get action photos, our top priority is making sure your camper is having the best summer camp experience possible. Please note that some families do not want their camper’s photo to be taken or posted online—we must respect their request. Here are a few things to keep in mind: • We will NOT take or post any pictures of campers that don’t have a photo release on file, including group photos. This permission will be part of your confirmation paperwork. • Campers are welcome to bring cameras to camp, in fact we encourage it to capture the fun from their point of view. Keep in mind that only cameras are allowed. Other devices that can take pictures (such as cell phones, tablets, and gaming systems) are not allowed.
Tips for Camper Communication Things to tell her: • You know she’s having a good time. • You can’t wait to hear all about her new friends, and the fun activities she’s doing. • That you hope she’s writing down songs, names of new friends, and taking lots of pictures. • Use positive words like love and proud. Things to avoid telling her: • Trips or fun things she’s missing out on. • That her sibling cried all night because she’s gone. • How much you miss her. • That she can call you anytime and you will pick her up if she is homesick. • About an ill relative or hurt animal.
When Parents will be Called You will not be contacted for minor cuts, bug bites, headaches, upset tummies, or “normal” homesickness. If the Health Supervisor and/or Camp Director feel it is necessary, they will contact you about any out-of-the–ordinary situations. Campers are not permitted to use the telephone. All telephone calls will be from the Camp Director, Assistant Camp Director, or Health Supervisor. • Illness or Injury—Your camper requires attention that cannot be given in our infirmary. • Fever—Your camper runs a fever higher than 102 degrees or has a fever longer than 12 hours. • Vomiting and/or Diarrhea—Your camper has vomiting and/or diarrhea that continues for 12 hours.
• Breathing Difficulty—Your camper has breathing difficulty with no problems in her health history. Your camper has breathing difficulty and does not respond to her medication. • Insect Bites/Stings—Your camper has an excessive allergic reaction or swelling from an insect bite.
• Poison Ivy—Your camper has an excessive reaction with poison ivy or the contact is in or near the eyes. • Behavior—Your camper commits a serious infraction of camp rules or has an extreme episode that results in self-harm.
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Healthy and Safe Camp Complete health and safety procedures will be released at a later date. This will include our response plan and procedures should suspected or confirmed communicable disease case occur at camp.
Check-In Process
Check-Out Process
We ask that all campers, families, and staff members arrive to camp healthy, well, and masked! We are re-vamping our check-in process this year as a part of our additional health and safety practices. Check in will be similar to a drive-thru experience where campers will be driven through stations for health screening and luggage drop-off, before saying a quick goodbye in the car and hopping out to join in on the fun! Reminder: families should be masked during the check-in process.
We will be completing our check-out of camp process in a very similar way to the drive-thru check-in process. Families will pick-up their camper, camper’s luggage, and any memorabilia from camp (arts and crafts, trading post items, etc.) at different stations along the pick-up route. Reminder: families should be masked during the check-out process.
Health Screening The health screening process will look a little different this year as well. Prior to check-in day, a camp health team member will review the camper’s health history information. During check-in, a camp health team member will conduct a health screening for every camper. Our Camp Health Team members will be wearing personal protective equipment (mask, shield or goggles, gloves, and gown) and campers will be masked. Then during the screening, the health team member will take the camper’s temperature and inspect child for visible symptoms of COVID-19 in addition to other health screening measures.
Symptom Screening
Pre-Camp Health History We are continuing to require the completion of a PreCamp Health History Form for each camper and staff. New this year, this form will be digital to complete prior before arrival at camp. This will allow our Camp Health Team to review the information ahead of time, making the check-in process even more efficient. More information on this new system to come.
Camp Modifications Our goal is to continue to offer a traditional camp experience, while staying safe this summer. There will be modifications made to camp, but we will try our best to balance typical camp activities, programming, and traditions with the important task of communicable disease prevention.
Symptom Screening will be implemented during the check-in process and twice-daily throughout your camper’s session. Symptom Screening will consist of questions asking all campers and staff if they feel well and healthy, if the camper or staff member have COVID-19 related symptoms, have been diagnosed with COVID-19, are waiting for test results, or have been exposed or in close contact to someone with symptoms or a confirmed or suspected case. During these twice-a-day screenings we will check campers’ and staff members’ temperature to ensure there is no fever and verbally ask if they have any COVID-19 related symptoms. The CDC defines close contact as being within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes or more, provided care at home to someone who is sick with COVID-19, had direct physical contact with the person (hugged or kissed them), shared eating or drinking utensils, or if the person with COVID-19 sneezed, coughed, or somehow got respiratory droplets on you. The CDC lists COVID-19 related symptoms as fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) are communicable disease prevention strategies that do not include medication. We will be implementing many NPIs at camp this year. Some of these non-pharmaceutical interventions include cohorting, face masks, hand hygiene, cleaning and sanitation, facilities ventilation, physical distancing, and symptom screening. 10 Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland
Programming and Activities Campers and staff members will remain within their cohort group for camp activities and programming. Campers can expect some modification to camp activities in order to allow for physical distancing. An example of some modifications include—staggered use of all communal spaces, disinfecting period between different cohort usage, utilizing the outdoor spaces at camp as much as possible to allow more room for physical distancing etc.
Cohorting
Face Masks
Hand Hygiene
Cohorting refers to the practice of isolating multiple individuals together as a group. Cohorting is a harm reduction strategy to minimize the risk of disease spread and adverse health outcomes. At resident camp this summer, each session girls sign up for will be considered a cohort. The girls in that session will move around camp together, not mixing with any other cohort. For example: A Daisy in the Space Adventures session at Latonka would only be around the other girls and staff in that session for all camp activities. This includes crafts, meals, swimming etc.
Campers, staff members (and families during drop-off and pick-up) will wear masks during their camp session. Masks aid in preventing the transmission of communicable disease by hindering the spread of respiratory droplets. We ask that campers bring multiple masks to wear throughout their time at camp. We will be able to provide disposable masks to campers when needed. Masks will be required at all times except when eating, sleeping, during water activities, and exertional outdoor activities in which 6 feet of distance can be maintained.
We will have fun with our continual practice of good hand hygiene throughout the summer. Signage will be posted with proper handwashing procedures at all hand washing sinks to remind campers and staff of its importance. Intentional time for handwashing will be incorporated into the session’s schedule and camp games will be implemented to encourage this practice. If hand washing is unavailable, alcoholbased hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol will be used and available to campers.
Physical Distancing
Sleeping Arrangements
During camp we will be making a few changes to increase the space between individuals and decreasing their frequency of contact. This will include spaced out seating and spacing for mealtimes and activities. Signage, tape, and paint will be utilized to maintain appropriate distancing.
Cabin capacity has been reduced by 50%. Campers will be sleeping in a head-to-toe fashion to maintain physical distance.
Facilities Ventilation
Mealtime
Each of our structures at camp will have specialized ventilation policies. • Facilities with a HVAC system will have filters replaced prior to the start of camp. These HVAC systems will run throughout the camp sessions, pulling in fresh air from the outside to increase ventilation. • Facilities that do not have HVAC system but have windows with screens will remain opened - weather permitting. • Additionally, facilities with ceiling fans will be reviewed prior to camp to ensure they are operational throughout the summer. As facilities permit, additional fans will be added to increase air circulation.
Campers and staff members will remain with their cohort group during mealtimes. Eating schedules will be modified for staggering and other measures to allow for disinfection between different cohort use. Campers and staff members will be physically distanced while eating because they will be unmasked.
Cleaning and Sanitizing Cleaning and sanitation efforts will be increased in all areas of camp, including the implementation of a schedule for cleaning all high touch areas and other areas to be cleaned between cohort use.
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Health Care Health Care at Camp All camps meet established standards for health and safety, site maintenance, program and personnel, which are set by state and local governments and Girl Scouts of the USA. An on-site health supervisor with advanced medical training is available 24 hours a day and counselors are informed of campers’ medical history and medication needs to ensure proper first aid and medical assistance. All camp staff follows an established Treatment Procedures reviewed by a health professional; the health supervisor manages camper medications, and minor camper illnesses and injuries are handled on-site following parent/ guardian directions on the Health History form. Campers are covered by supplemental health and accident insurance. The insurance cost is included in the camp fee. It does not cover pre-existing conditions and is secondary to whatever health insurance coverage families may have.
See page 14 for information about insects and sunburns. Medication Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland summer camp infirmaries are well-stocked with over-the-counter medications to treat campers and are listed on the medication form. There is no need for you to bring these items—it will significantly speed up your check in experience if you do not. On the medication form, please make sure to indicate what medications you want us to use to treat your camper if the need arises. We need all medical treatment items to be given to health staff at check in, including, but not limited to vitamins, essential oils, pain relievers, etc. If your camper doesn’t strictly need these items, we recommend you leave them at home. •
If your camper has any allergy, disorder, or disease that could flare up while at camp, please let the Health Supervisor know in writing on the health history forms.
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All medication must be in original containers and labeled if brought to camp. Include on the form written and legible instructions, giving camper’s name, dosage, and directions.
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All medications should be together in a resealable clear plastic bag and given to the Health Supervisor during check in. Please do not pack medications with clothing.
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All medications will be administered according to the prescription or packing label. Adjustments to medication dosage cannot be made without written physician instructions.
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If you have medication that needs to be kept on the camper or with their counselor instead of the infirmary- such as an epi-pen or inhaler- please be prepared to discuss this need upon check in with the health staff.
Meals and Dietary Restrictions Campers are provided three full meals a day plus snacks! Campers staying a full week at camp will experience cooking in their unit campsite. Should a camper still be hungry, there will still be other options like salad bar and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches available with every meal. If your camper has special dietary needs, you MUST contact the Camp Director with any food allergies or restrictions at least 2 weeks before their program starts. All food is purchased prior to the start of the week’s program and every reasonable accommodation will be made if the Camp Director is made aware in advance of special dietary needs. If we are aware at least 2 weeks in advance, we can accommodate gluten allergies and vegetarian meals. Other food allergies or dietary needs will be addressed on a case by case basis. We are nut-aware, but not a nut free camp. We do our very best to work with each family to ensure no camper is left out of a camp experience due to dietary needs.
Head Lice One of the stations you will visit during check in is the health check. All campers will have a inspection for head lice. Braids and ponytails will need to be taken out. If a camper haas evidence of head lice, she will not be able to stay at camp and we will make every effort will be made to place her in a similar program session later. If this is not possible,a full refund will be granted, including the non-refundable deposit.
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Safety at Camp Camper drop-off and pick-up is closely monitored; campers are released only to adults listed by the parent or guardian and who show a picture ID. Once in our care, camps follow adult-to-girl supervision ratios specified by Girl Scouts’ Safety Activity Checkpoints.
Security
Visitors
Access to camp property is limited, controlled, and only authorized visitors are allowed on site. To ensure the safety and security of camp, limit interruptions in the camp program, and to prevent homesickness among campers, unauthorized visitors are not allowed on site.
Part of the camp experience is each camper discovering themselves and learning independence. For the security of the girls, camp is closed to all visitors, including parents, during camp sessions. Parents/guardians are encouraged to tour the camp and talk with staff on check in and check out day. Camp staff will contact you if needed. You may call the camp office or council after-hours for emergencies. Due to the large number of girls at GSMH summer camp, campers are not permitted to make or accept phone calls. If an emergency arises, please contact the Camp Director, and she will be more than happy to help you. Phone numbers to the camp office will be included in your confirmation packet.
Severe Weather Our outdoor activities are dependent upon the weather. In the case of bad weather (lightning, thunder, or high winds) it may become too dangerous to continue with the activity. The decision to cancel an activity due to bad weather is left to the expertise/ discretion of the instructor/director leading and trained in the safety standards of the activity. We will do our absolute best to reschedule any canceled activities, depending on the weather and time/day of the week. Alternative activities will take place in the event of unsafe weather conditions. We want to encourage you to not worry, our staff is trained on what to do and where to go during severe weather and other emergencies. We do not want to put you in any danger trying to get to camp. If there is an event that we need you to pick up your camper, we will implement our Emergency Plan and our camp team will contact you with specific information regarding when and where to pick up your camper. Please do not put yourself in danger needlessly.
What if it is Really Hot Outside? We still have a great time at camp even when it is hot outside. We encourage the girls to drink plenty of water, refill their water bottles often from the many water stations around camp. Campers are encouraged to bring personal sized, clip-on fans. Please note, even though girls may spend time in air-conditioning, most of their day is spent outside at camp. All campers should bring a water bottle and sunscreen to camp. You may also bring hats, light colored clothing and cooling towels or bandanas. Allow your child to get used to the heat by encouraging outside play, teaching her the importance of drinking water, and showing her how to protect herself with sunscreen and clothing.
Swimming All campers are required to demonstrate their swimming skills regardless of prior experience. We use this demonstration to allow our lifeguards to become familiar with each girls’ varying abilities and to decide which campers will be allowed to swim in the deep end of the pool and/or utilize the jumping board. All campers will be assigned a different color wristband based on their demonstrated abilities, that will allow them access to the different areas and depths of the pool. All campers will be allowed to swim every day. We highly recommend you send your camper with a one-piece swim suit or “tankini”. Due to the active nature of camp and the large number of hours spent in the sun, we want to make sure to protect your camper and that includes recommending the appropriate swimwear. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us.
Pets Pets are not allowed on camp property. Please leave pets or other animals at home when dropping off or picking up your camper from camp. Registered service animals are an exception. To maintain the Health and Safety of all campers and their adults, we ask that you contact the Camp Director to make accommodations before arriving to with a service animal. Summer Camp Family Handbook 2021
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Tips and Tricks The Super Six
What counselors wish parents knew!
Campers and staff are required to carry the Fab Five with them at all times in their backpack. Super Six Items 1. Water bottle 2. Sun screen 3. Insect repellent 4. Rain jacket or poncho 5. Flashlight 6. Masks—2 for each day of camp You will receive the extensive packing list in your confirmation packet.
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When preparing for camp, choose a study backpack that your camper will be comfortable carrying all day with the super six items and other gear. Please avoid drawstring backpacks as they break easily and are not comfortable to carry all day.
Addressing Concerns If you have a concern regarding your camper’s experience, please let us know as soon as possible. We strive to make camp a safe and positive place for all girls. To best address your concerns, please call or email the Camp Director so a meeting can be scheduled in advance. The Camp Directors contact information will be included in your confirmation packet. If at any time you feel your concern is not being addressed to your satisfaction, please notify the Program Experience Manager by phone or email.
Insects and Sunburns Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland takes measures to control ticks, mosquitoes, and sunburns—all camps will have 40% DEET bug spray and broad-spectrum SPF 30 water-resistant sunscreen at camp available for campers to use, with your permission. GSMH camp staff will ensure the application of bug spray and sunscreen throughout the day as needed and will be checking for ticks daily. Campers may bring their own bug spray and/or sunscreen, but please no scented perfumes, lotions, or bath products. Also note, all-natural bug spray and sunscreen are not always guaranteed to work.
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If you pack with your camper, make sure she knows what she has and where it is. Also, please understand that your daughter will be re-packing herself. Please let your unit counselors know if your child regularly wets the bed. This way, they can be prepared to discreetly change the sheets and wash bedding/nightclothes in the morning, while the girls are away from the cabin at breakfast. You can help make your camper’s experience great by having mail for her each day. Please send pre-addressed and stamped envelopes with your daughter to write home. Bring separate towels for swimming and showering. Sisters do not necessarily make the best camp buddies. Please don’t tell your daughter she can call or go home if she misses home or gets homesick. Girls will be expected to help clean up after themselves. Let them practice at home with chores. Girls need a small backpack or day bag to carry their gear for daily activities. It should be large enough to hold a change of clothes and the Super Six. Let your daughter practice taking quick showers and wash/brush her own hair before coming to camp. Please try not to make any major medication changes just before your daughter comes to camp. Put your camper’s name on everything!
Contact Information www.girlscoutsmoheartland.org 877-312-4764 info@girlscoutsmoheartland.org
Family Camping at Silver Meadows There are a few differences between resident camp and family camp, those differences are listed here.
Weekend Family Camp Program At these two-day, one-night family camping opportunities, girls and families will have a chance to spend time participating in themed activities and competition related to their session. Participants will also spend time enjoying general camp activities like canoeing, archery, cooking over a fire, and more! Activities will be best suited for ages 5 and up but children as young as 3 are welcome to attend.
Check-In and Check-Out
Registration
At each session, girls and their families will check in around 9:00 a.m. on Saturday and check out at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday. Dinner on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday will be provided. Participants will need to bring a sack lunch for Saturday.
Registration for Family Camping at Silver Meadows will open on April 1.
Meals All participants need to already have eaten breakfast and are responsible for bring a lunch with a drink for Saturday. Ingredients will be provided to Campers, and they will be guided through cooking over a fire (weather permitting). . If a member in your family has a food allergy or sensitivity, please let us know prior to your session by emailing info@ girlscoutsmoheartland.org. We will have water available throughout the day, so campers can refill their water bottles.
These family opportunities have family style pricing! The $95 registration fee includes facilitated activities, supplies, and food for a family with up to 4 members. Additional family members can be added for $10 per member. There are limited tent sites are available for use each session. If possible, we ask that families share and provide their own tent.
Health Check All campers will have a general health screening before they are checked into camp. This will include taking the camper’s temperature and inspection for head lice. Braids and ponytails will need to be taken out, so you may want to wait until after the health check to braid hair. This screening will also include taking all campers’ temperature and inspection for visible symptoms of COVID-19 in addition to typical health screening measures. If a camper fails the health screening upon arrival, which means they have fever, symptoms of COVID-19, or have evidence of head lice, they will not be able to attend Family Camping until their fever and/or lice is gone.
Summer Camp Family Handbook 2021
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Virtual Summer Camp There are differences in-person camping opportunities and virtual summer camp, those differences are listed here.
Virtual Summer Camp Program Summer Camp is not just a place—it’s a leadership-building, friend-meeting, and challenge-seeking experience. Returning this year, girls will be able to bring the outdoors in with Virtual Summer Camp opportunities. Virtual Summer Camp is open to girls of all ages and offers a week-long experience of hands-on activities, engagement with campers and staff, camp songs and a box of supplies mailed to her front door!
Typical Week of Virtual Summer Camp Each week of Virtual Camp will have two units—a unit for Daisies and Brownies and a unit for Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors and Ambassadors. There are times where both units will be together on Zoom for All Camp activities, and times when girls will be separated for Unit time. In between time on Zoom with other campers and staff, campers will be given optional camp activities to do on their own with their families. All times are in Central Standard Time.
A Typical Week at Camp Sunday All Camp Opening
Monday Unit Time (Morning & Afternoon)
Tuesday Unit Time (Morning & Afternoon)
Wednesday Thursday
Unit Time All Camp & Virtual Trading Post
Delivered to Your Front Door! Shortly before your session begins, activity supplies will be mailed to the address given at the time of registration, including this year’s 2021 Summer Camp patch! Most supplies for the week’s activities will be included, but there will be a few items campers will be asked to provide. After registering, participants will receive a confirmation email with this list of items, additional information, and other specific instructions. Remember: Due to this delivery of supplies to your camper—triple check the camper’s address when registering! If a camper’s address needs to be changed after registration, contact us prior to the registration deadline for that session at info@ girlscoutsmoheartland.org.
Refund Policy
Unit Time (Morning & Afternoon)
Friday Unit Time All Camp Closing
Due to purchasing activity supplies for the virtual camp sessions, refunds will not be given after the registration deadline for the session except under extenuating circumstances.
If you have any trouble during a Zoom Program Session, it is best to reach out in the Zoom chat. We have behind-the-scenes staff attending each session to help with answering questions in the chat log and assisting members with technical issues. 16 Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland
Technology Tips We will be using Zoom as our virtual platform for all virtual camp sessions. You will be receiving a Zoom link and password for each program your girl registers for. These links and passwords will be sent the day after the program’s registration deadline. After receiving the Zoom information, review these steps to prepare for your first Zoom virtual program. 1. Practice Joining Meeting You have two options – download Zoom or join sessions through a web browser. Zoom can be downloaded on most smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops. You can also click on the Zoom link and join the meeting via internet browser. Both options are free to use! 2. Check Your Audio Once in the Zoom meeting, you can join computer/device audio by clicking one of the following—Join Audio, or Join with Computer Audio (which will take you to the audio settings). There will be many opportunities for girls to interact with other girls and GSMH Staff. 3. Check Your Video Using video enhances the experience but is not a requirement. You have the ability to use your desktop/laptop webcam or your phone’s built-in camera. If you do not have capabilities to video yourself, you will still be able to listen, speak and see the webcam video of virtual camp staff and other participants. 4. Check Your Internet Quality It is important that wherever you plan to be when participating in GSMH program Zoom sessions to have quality internet. This can be plugging a device into an ethernet port, connecting to WiFi, utilizing cell data or using a hotspot from another device. 5. Check Your Environment What does your background look like? You may want to put away personal documents, turn off distractions (TVs etc.) or set aside other personal items if those show in your background. Also be sure you are in a location that has a stable internet. 6. Review Program Details You will be receiving a confirmation email the day after the registration deadline with important information for the program. Review those details and get your Girl Scout prepared with supplies needed, either from the box mailed to them or acquired by you.
7. Join your GSMH Program Zoom Session! About 5-10 minutes before your Zoom session, have your Girl Scout click on the Zoom link provided in the confirmation email. She will be prompted to enter in the password, also provided in the confirmation email. She will then be sent to a virtual waiting room, where she will stay until a GSMH Staff member officially starts the program. Zoom FAQ’s Can I join late? Yes! A GSMH staff member will let you into the session at an appropriate time and you can join in on the fun! I’m having internet troubles and got “kicked out” of the meeting. Can I rejoin? Yes! A GSMH staff member will let you into the session at an appropriate time. My Girl Scout has a question, but she is muted by A GSMH staff member. How can she get her question answered? For parts of the sessions, you will be muted by a staff member and will not have the ability to unmute yourself. If you have a question, write in the Zoom Chat. If you need to communicate privately with a staff member, you will also have the option to private chat.
Summer Camp Family Handbook 2021
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Trading Post The Trading Post is your source for camp souvenirs, gifts, patches, apparel, and many other fun camp accessories! Each camper will have an opportunity to visit the Trading Post at least once during her stay. Girls attending resident camp at Finbrooke or Latonka can use cash and/or Cookie Credit to set up a Trading Post account. The money will be collected at check-in and logged to her account. Any funds remaining in her account at the end of the week will be put in her end of the session packet at checkout Girls attending Virtual Summer Camp will have the opportunity to visit the Virtual Trading Post during their week of activities. Purchases at the Trading Post are strictly optional. Girl Scouts of the Missouri Heartland is not responsible for any items purchased at the Trading Post that are lost or stolen during your camper’s stay.
Stop by and check out our new shirts and other summer camp items, only available at the Trading Post!
Camp T-Shirts 2021 Youth Sizes - $10 | Adult Sizes - $12 Order by May 1st All in-person campers will receive their t-shirt upon arrival at camp. Attending virtual camp? We’ll ship yours to your home!
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