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2024 Parent Handbook

Below you will find extensive information on most every aspect of our 2024 Summer Camp. Please take the time to carefully review ALL the information contained within the Handbook.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome
Our Motto
Diversity & Inclusion
Code of Conduct
Important Camp Dates
Sample Daily Schedule
Special Guests and Activities
Important Information
Drop-Off & Pick-Up
Before & After Care
Setting Your Child Up For Success
Dates & Fees
Registration, Refunds & Credits
What to Bring To Camp
Health & Medical

Welcome

Welcome to Camp Summer Blast! Our camp was created with a vision to provide Milton children with a unique summer camp experience. Located at the Milton Fairgrounds, our summer camp has what we feel is the best location in town! Our weekly programs offer day campers with a variety of activities that meet the needs and interests of all children. Our counselors are experienced and strive to provide an experience that will create memories for a lifetime!

Please take the time to read our parent guide thoroughly as it contains important information about our camp and policies.

Our Motto

“Let’s Create Memories” because that’s what we do!

Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to equity and inclusivity of all campers and EVERYONE is accepted. Our counselors also receive annual equity, diversity and inclusivity training as part of our ongoing commitment to include all.

Summer Camp is a place where everyone should be welcomed and celebrated for the who they are. We recognize the uniqueness of all children and have an unwavering commitment to our campers.

Code of Conduct

Camp Summer Blast is a camp dedicated to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion of ALL camper regardless of age, gender, religion, ability/disability, ethnicity, or any other characteristic. We provide an exciting, inclusive environment for all of our campers and respect all campers' right to feel safe and included.

Please take the time to read our parent guide thoroughly as it contains important information about our camp code of conduct policy.

Bullying

Camp Summer Blast maintains a zero tolerance policy for bullying. This includes, but is not limited to: intimidation, name calling, profanity, racism, physical assault, and refusal to follow safety guidelines. 

If a child that acts in such a manner repeatedly he/she will be dismissed from camp. Refunds will not be provided, regardless of the number of weeks registered. Refunds are not provided as, once a registration space has been booked, that space is no longer available for another camper.

Behaviour

It is the expectation that all campers behave in a manner that is conducive to the safety of all campers and staff. While we know that minor misbehaviours can and will happen, we cannot accept behaviour that goes beyond what our counselors can reasonably handle. This may include kicking, punching, screaming, spitting, running away from counselors, and the like. Note: a child that acts in such a manner repeatedly will dismissed from camp. Refunds will not be provided, regardless of the number of weeks registered. Refunds are not provided as, once a registration space has been booked, that space is no longer available for another camper.

Reasonably appropriate behaviour also pertains to following schedules and routines, much as a child would do at school. As each counselor is responsible for a group of campers she/he cannot stop what they are doing for a child that is refusing (repeatedly) to follow the rules and guidelines of camp. Please note: this does not pertain to a camper that may say they "don't like" a particular activity as we know our little ones have preferences. This behaviour policy refers to a camper that continually refuses to follow directions. Note: a child that acts in such a manner repeatedly will be dismissed from camp. Refunds will not be provided, regardless of the number of weeks registered. Refunds are not provided as, once a registration space has been booked, that space is no longer available for another camper.

Vandalism and/or Theft

Any camper involved with vandalism and/or theft involving Milton Fairground property or buildings, Camp Summer Blast belongings, or those of another camper will be reported to Police. Parents of the campers involved will be held financially responsible in all instances of theft and/or vandalism and the camper may be dismissed from camp.  Refunds will not be provided, regardless of the number of weeks registered. Refunds are not provided as, once a registration space has been booked, that space is no longer available for another camper. 

*Note: Camp Summer Blast recommends that valuables not be brought to camp. This includes cell phones, iPads/Tablets, and other devices. Camp Summer Blast is not responsible for lost or stolen devices or personal property brought to camp.

Important Camp Dates

Wednesday July 3, 2024 - First Day of Camp

Friday August 23, 2024 - Last Day of Camp

Monday August 5, 2024 - Civic Holiday (no camp)

Session Dates & Times

WEEK 1: July 3 - 5, 2024
WEEK 2: July 8 - 12, 2024
WEEK 3: July 15 - 19, 2024
WEEK 4: July 22 - 26, 2024 

WEEK 5: July 29 - Aug 2, 2024
WEEK 6: August 6 - 9, 2024
WEEK 7: August 12  - 16, 2024
WEEK 8: August 19 - 23, 2024

*July 3 - 5 is a 3 day camp week
*August 6 - 9 is a 4 day camp week

Sample Daily Schedule

Camp Hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 pm (before care available 8:00 am - 9:00 am)

9:00 am  - 9:15 am - Drop Off (no earlier)
9:15 am - 9:30 - Small Group Activities with Counselor
9:30 - 10:00 - Larger Group Activities (Organized Games, Scavenger Hunts)
10:00 - 10:15 - Snack
10:15 - 11:15 - Craft or STEAM Activities
11:15 - 12:00 - Outdoor Games - Large and Small Group
12:00 - 12:45 - Lunch and Free Time
12:45 - 2:30 - Special Guest or Activity (Exotic Animals, Paleontologist, Music, Country Heritage Park, Amazing Race, Water Day)
2:30 - 2:45 - Snack
2:45 - 3:30 - Craft/STEAM Activities/Outdoor Games
3:30 - 3:45 - Back in Small Groups - Getting Ready for Home
3:45 - 4:00 - Pick Up (no later) - After care available 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Please Note: Camp Summer Blast has been designed to provide campers with a wide variety of activities throughout the week. Each day is packed full of activities ensuring that your child will have fun rain or shine. If it rains or is extremely hot we have a fully enclosed indoor space to keep everyone dry and cool. The above schedule is a sample only and is adjusted based on weather, our special guest or activity, and other factors that allow for smooth operation of camp each day. Below you will find information on the various activities that take place throughout the week.

Special Daily Guests and Activities

*Day of Special Guests or Activities May Change Each Week


MONDAY

Welcome to Camp
Campers are greeted by their counselors when they arrive and engage in a variety of exciting indoor and outdoor activities. These include low organized games, crafts, scavenger hunts, and activities meant to introduce campers to our amazing camp and counselors while meeting new friends.

Music - We also welcome Mr. Jim, our partner who is instrumental (excuse the pun) in allowing our campers to experience hands-on learning with a variety of musical instruments from drums to guitars, banjos, harps, and much more. Regardless of the age of you child Mr. Jim provides our campers with an exceptional experience. And yes, the day is also packed with crafts, activities, and games! Be click here for more information and pictures from last season!

*This year we have a 'Surprise T-Shirt' activity for every camper (shhhh don't tell your campers)!

TUESDAY

Hands on Exotics
Exotic Animals. A visit from Hands on Exotics will have the campers in awe as they experience the opportunity to get up close and personal with some amazing exotic animals! Check out pictures from last season and more information here! Of course campers will have ample time for indoor and outdoor games, crafts, and activities.

WEDNESDAY

Paleontologist Kara Bartley and Paleotales
Every Wednesday we have a visit from a real Paleontologist and Author, Kara Bartley. Kara immerses our campers in the land of learning, imagining life through the eyes of time. With hands-on opportunities to see real fossils and inquiry-based learning, Kara captivates campers and leaves them wanting more! As with every day at camp, our campers have lots to do with games, crafts, and activities. Click here for more information and pictures from last season!

THURSDAY

Field Trip to Country Heritage Park!
We are excited to announce that this year we have organized a weekly field trip to Country Heritage Park here in Milton! This is a half-day field trip comes at no additional cost to our campers. Get ready for a fantastic journey into the past as campers will engage in an immersive experience like no other. Campers will explore a variety of activities each week including a working barn with a variety of farm animals, an 1860's farmstead, an early settler experience, an indigenous experience, a school house, and much more! Campers will leave the Milton Fairgrounds at 9:30 am and return by 12:30 pm each Thursday.

Thursday afternoon will be spent engaged in crafts and activities. We also prepare for our Amazing Race by creating team names, cheers, team colours and posters!

FRIDAY

Summer Blast Amazing Race!
Every Friday campers of all ages will partake in Camp Summer Blast’s Amazing Race. They will compete in groups and have a “Blast” at the same time! This is often the highlight of the week as campers race to complete numerous tasks and compete in teams for the Amazing Race trophy! For more information on our Amazing Race and pictures from last season click here.

We also have our Water Day on Fridays with a ton of outdoor fun, water fights, inflatable slide, and much more! Fridays are also pizza day and packed with excitement!

 

Campu Summer Blast Amazing Race

Important Information

 

SUNSCREEN

As we like to spend as much time outside, please send your child to camp ready for the day with sunscreen already provided. Please send your child with sunscreen that is labeled with your child’s name so that we may re-apply throughout the day. Note: please do not send sunscreen containing coconut or nut oils.

TOILETING

Please note that it is the expectation that all campers are fully toilet trained. We do understand that accidents can happen and, as such, we ask that you send your child to camp with a chance of clothes in a large Ziplock bag labelled with their name.

PRIVACY

As educators, our camp director and supervisors understand the need for privacy and respect this privacy wholeheartedly. Any information collected from families in the process of registration is kept confidential and not shared with any third party, ever.

CAMP ATTIRE

As we are an outdoor summer camp (with available indoor space for rainy or extremely hot days) we ask that you send your child to camp with comfortable summer clothing. We will have the opportunity to visit the splash pad at Rotary Park on Tuesday each week so ask that you send your child with a bathing suit on that day.

PICKUP AND DROP OFF

Our location at the Milton Fairgrounds allows our Milton Summer Camp to provide a drive-thru pickup and drop off. In the mornings we ask that you follow the guide of our staff and drive right up to the front door to drop your child off. We will warmly greet your child and bring them to their group each morning. At the of the day the process is identical. Simply pull up to the front door and we’ll have your child ready to go!

Drop-Off & Pick-Up

 

DROP-OFF

  1. Summer Camp drop-off at the Milton Fairground will begin at 9:00 am.
  2. Staff will direct you through the pylons to the front door for drop-off. If you arrive early (prior to 9:00 am) please wait in your car for staff to greet your child(ren). Please note that some families have paid for before care (beginning at 8:00 am) so we ask families to wait until 9:00 am if before care has not been requested.
  3. Please be patient as you drop your child. We ask that you do NOT get out of your car.
  4. If your child is experiencing anxiety show them that you are happy and confident that they will have an amazing time. Hesitation will make your child more anxious so try your best to keep that brave face! If you need to reassure your child please pull ahead in line and a counselor will assist.
  5. Once you drop your child we will ensure they are safe and happy and will escort them each day to their counselor.

PICK-UP

Pick-up each day takes place between 3:45 and 4:00 pm. The procedure is the same as drop-off in that you will proceed through the pylons to the front door of our main building. Campers can only be signed out by pre-approved adults (Mom, Dad, Grandparent, etc.). Photo identification is required ON THE FIRST DAY regardless of familiarity with staff. This is for the protection of your child, which we take very seriously. The counselor for your child's group will be the one greeting you upon arrival. *Note: we reserve the right to ask for photo ID at any time if we do not recognize the adult picking up your child.

ARRIVING ON TIME

In order to ensure the smooth operation of Camp Summer Blast and to ensure the safety of all campers it is extremely important that campers arrive on time each day. Late campers disrupt our daily program as our counselors must pause their program to ensure the late camper is integrated into the group. Please ensure your child is on time each day.

ABSENCES

As we are responsible for the safety and well-being of you child it is extremely important that you report your child’s absence to us by calling 905-691-8945. If you know ahead of time that your child will be absent please email us at fairgrounds@campsummerblast.ca.

Before And After Care

 

Camp Summer Blast operations on a 9:00 am to 4:00 pm schedule. However, we realize that some families may need an extended period of time for drop-off and pick-up. Below are the options available: Campers will meet their counselors and engage in a variety of exciting indoor and outdoor activities. 

BEFORE CARE

Before-care is offered daily from 8:00 - 9:00 am at a cost of $25 (plus HST) per one week session.

AFTER CARE

After-care is offered daily from 4:00 - 5:00 pm at a cost of $25 (plus HST) per one week session. Note: 5:00 pm is the absolute latest we have the Fairgrounds at our disposal. *Pick-up later than 5:00 will result in additional fees.

Setting Your Child Up For Success

 

For Our Youngest Campers

Leaving Mom and Dad for the day can be scary for our youngest campers, and for parents too! The staff at Camp Summer Blast are here to support the little ones as they embark on this new exciting journey. Here are a few things you can do to support your child in a successful camp experience:

  • Let them know how excited you are for them to have a “Blast” as Summer Camp
  • Listen to them when they express worries and remind them that you’re close by
  • Involve them in getting ready for camp each day:
    • Choosing Clothing
    • Packing Lunch
  • Keep your own worries private: it’s normal to feel nervous for your child. It’s important thought for them to see how excited you are and to reassure them 

For Our Older Campers

We know that anxiety is real for many children, regardless of age. If you have a child with high anxiety you can still practice the skills above to ease the transition to camp. You can also let us know so that we can further assist your child when needed.

Weekly Program Fee: $335 + HST

*Week of July 3rd: $200 + HST
*Week of August 6th: $270 + HST

 

LEADER IN TRAINING (LIT) Program Fee: $285+ HST

*Week of July 3rd: $150
*Week of August 6th: $225+ HST

NOTE! Each additional sibling from the same family will receive an additional 10% off!

 

WEEK DATES
WEEK 1 JULY 3 - 5 (3 Day Week)
WEEK 2 JULY 8 - 12
WEEK 3 JULY 15 - 19
WEEK 4 JULY 22 - 26
WEEK 5 JULY 29 - AUGUST 2
WEEK 6 AUGUST 6 - 9 (Civic Holiday - 4 Day Wek)
WEEK 7 AUGUST 12 - 16
WEEK 8 AUGUEST 19 - 23

 

Registration (January 1 - April 30)

  1. Registration begins January 1, 2024 at midnight.
  2. Registration continues until available spaces fill up. Once full, we will begin a wait list but cannot guarantee a spot.
  3. A 50% deposit is required at the time of registration.
  4. The remaining balance is due April 30, 2024.


REFUNDS: All camp fees are fully refundable until April 30, 2024. A $50 administration fee will apply.

Registration (May 1 - August 25)

 

  • Camp registration continues from May 1 until August 25. All registrations must be paid in full at the time of registration.

CREDITS: After April 30, 2024 there are no refunds. A 50% credit will be applied to the 2025 camp season. Notice must be given a minimum of 14 days notice prior to your session beginning. 

*No credit/refund will be issued if you cancel less than 14 days prior to the beginning of your weekly session

What To Bring To Camp

FOOD & DRINK

  • Reusable Water Bottle
  • Lunch Bag with Nutritious Lunch (peanut/net free)
  • Snacks (morning/afternoon)

CLOTHING

  • Backpack (labelled with child’s name)
  • Appropriate daily clothing (dress for the weather)
  • Change of clothes in a labelled ziplock bag
  • Appropriate footwear (NOTE: no open-toed shoes for safety)
  • Baseball cap or sun hat


*We recommend you LABEL EVERYTHING with your child’s name

LABEL, LABEL, LABEL!

If we know anything about our children it’s their ability to leave everything everywhere! Thus we will do our utmost to return items to you and your children if they are left behind.

So please ensure that all items are clearly labeled. There are many iron-on options out there (Amazon has some terrific options)

What NOT  To Bring

  • Cell phones
  • Stuffed animals
  • Products containing nuts/tree nuts
  • Glass water bottles
  • Open-toed shoes or ‘Slides’
  • Trading Cards (like Pokemon)

Health & Medical

 

MEDICATIONS

If the administration of medication is necessary during the day please communicate directly with the Supervisor on the first day. All medication must be clearly labeled with the camper name and in the original bottle/packaging. Campers are not permitted to keep any medications with them during the day (with the exception of Epi-Pens or Asthma Inhalers).

*Note: Camper Health Forms must be completed each year indicating any on-going medications necessary for your child.

ALLERGIES

Epi-Pens: If your child suffers from a life-threatening allegry that requires the use of an Epi-Pen please indicated on the Camper Health Form. We require that each camper have two Epi-Pens at camp - one with the Supervisor, and one stays with the camper.  

Inhalers: If your child suffers from Asthma or another condition that requires the use of an inhaler you must provide directions for use of the inhaler in our Camper Health Form.

ANAPHYLAXIS - NOTE TO ALL PARENTS

At any given moment we will have several campers with serious, life-threatening allergies to foods such as peanuts and tree nuts. As such our camp policy is that NO CAMPER will be sent to camp with food containing NUTS OF ANY KIND. This is a strict policy and is mean for the safety of our campers.

ILLNESS AT CAMP

At Camp Summer Blast we are experienced working with children and know that children can sometimes get headaches/tummy aches. If this happens we will have your child rest and will contact the parent to speak about next steps. Often times a brief rest is all they need!

If the illness is more serious (fever, vomiting etc.) will will contact the parent for immediate pickup.