Camp Bournedale Summer Camp
Frequently Asked Questions
Homesickness & Getting Settled
First time campers and their parents sometimes spend a good bit of time worrying about homesickness. Most kids do just fine… but here are some thoughts, which may help minimize potential emotional distress:
Before camp… Speak openly of possible homesickness. Homesickness is natural, and certain feelings of missing home, parents, pets or friends are pretty normal. Once this is understood, your child may accept homesick feelings with less anxiety. Avoid statements like “I’m going to be so lonely without you!” Don’t make your child feel guilty about going away. Heighten your child’s interest by pointing out some of the exciting things you remember about your own camping experience. Be sure to be positive about how you were able to handle being away from your mom and dad.
While painting a bright, promising picture of camp, be sure his expectations are realistic.
Avoid saying, “If you have problems, call us and we’ll come get you.” A camper thus invited to fail is likely to give up at the first difficulty, abandon thoughts of adjusting to camp, and focus immediately on going home. You might say something like, “We are sure you will have lots of fun. The people at Camp Bournedale really care about kids and will help you a great deal. You can always talk with them.”
If you bring your child to camp, take long enough to see the facilities and meet his counselors. A cheerful, confident attitude on your part will help greatly in getting the summer off to a good start.
During camp…
Phone calls are generally not a good idea. Some campers may be doing just fine ’til the sound of a parent’s voice triggers a setback unexpected by either party. If for some reason you do wind up on the phone with a crying, homesick child, you need to be supportive, encouraging, positive about his ability to adjust.
Our approach is to…
- Be supportive, encouraging, empathetic and available to talk things out.
- Keep him busy.
- Try to identify and solve any underlying problems (being teased, perhaps) or help him learn to live with the insoluble ones (it’s raining, the water’s cold, etc.).
- Keep you informed.
Successful camping is a cooperative effort shared by Camp Bournedale and your family. Some homesick campers want the world to know; others are embarrassed and try not to show it. We do want you to tell us about homesickness and other problems of which we may not be aware, and we’re glad to give you feedback about your son anytime. Feel free to call any time if you have concerns. If we’re not by the phone, we’ll be happy to call you back.
Health & Safety at Camp
Camp Bournedale has a registered nurse residing in a well-equipped infirmary on the grounds. Pediatric Associates, a group of five excellent pediatricians in Plymouth, is used for medical expertise. All campers must be examined by a physician prior to camp, and submit a medical history. The nurses work closely with the camper’s family doctors when necessary.
Safety is stressed at all times.
In all activity areas, safety is the primary consideration. We follow a number of self-imposed guidelines, including specific and individual approval of lifeguards, drivers, and counselors. A high level of instructor qualification, along with ongoing training and supervision, is another key to an excellent safety record.
Being safe has a great deal to do with using good judgment.
As a parent, you wouldn’t teach water safety by keeping a child away from the water; you’d teach him to swim. But most importantly, you’d teach the art of judgment: knowing when to attempt something and when to retreat.
We build Self-Confidence Everyday.
We endeavor to develop self-confidence in our campers, the spirit of adventure and discovery, and of confidence in one’s self, while at the same time teaching them to prepare thoroughly and carefully for any undertaking. This approach helps children carry over an attitude of safety into activities well beyond camp. The art of discipline is as important a part of any skill as the skill itself.
Camp History and Staff Info
How long has Camp Bournedale been in business?
Camp Bournedale, boys summer camp has been operating continuously as a summer camp for 86 years! Originally founded by Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Gerson, in 1938,
Where do you get your staff?
Many of our staff have come up through the ranks’ from camper through Leader-In-Training to staff. As well, we have a staff return rate in excess of 75 percent. We employ many local teachers in each spacific area of camp. All of our staff must submit to police background checks before they are hired.
How can I find out more?
We would be happy to send you our information package or answer any questions you might have. Please feel free to contact us via e-mail or by submitting an information request or even give us a call!
Can I Pay for Camp Online?
Yes! If you would like to make a secure payment online, please click here.
