Camp Policies.
Below you will find the following policies:
1. Cancellation and Refund Policy
2. Camper and Parent Code of Conduct
3. Food and Allergies
4. COVID-19
5. Lice Policy
6. Unplugged Policy
7. Phone Calls and Communication with Campers Policy
8. No Packages Policy
1. Cancellation and Refund Policy
2. Camper and Parent Code of Conduct
3. Food and Allergies
4. COVID-19
5. Lice Policy
6. Unplugged Policy
7. Phone Calls and Communication with Campers Policy
8. No Packages Policy
Cancellation and Refund Policy.
Our operating costs are by and large fixed for the season by the time we hit spring. If a camper withdraws between March 31st and May 31st, an additional $500 (plus the $500 deposit) will be forfeited to the camp. If a camper withdraws for any reason on or after June 1st, the entire camp fee will be forfeited.
Once a camper arrives at camp, no refunds will be issued in the case that your child leaves camp early or misses days of camp for any reason*. Any additional transportation provided by the camp shall be an additional charge. This policy enables us to continue keeping camp affordable, invest in our programming, site, and staff, and provide needs-based support to reduce access barriers to camp.
*The only exception to this policy is in the rare situation that a camper is sent home for medical reasons. In this circumstance, and at the discretion of the camp, a partial refund of up to 35% of the daily tuition paid for missed days may be issued at the end of the camp season.
Once a camper arrives at camp, no refunds will be issued in the case that your child leaves camp early or misses days of camp for any reason*. Any additional transportation provided by the camp shall be an additional charge. This policy enables us to continue keeping camp affordable, invest in our programming, site, and staff, and provide needs-based support to reduce access barriers to camp.
*The only exception to this policy is in the rare situation that a camper is sent home for medical reasons. In this circumstance, and at the discretion of the camp, a partial refund of up to 35% of the daily tuition paid for missed days may be issued at the end of the camp season.
Camper and Parent Code of Conduct.
Providing a fun, unforgettable summer experience begins with creating an environment that ensures all members of the camp community feel safe, comfortable, respected and accepted. Camp Shomria is committed to providing a safe, caring, and inclusive environment for learning and fun. We entrust all our campers with the responsibility of treating each other, staff, visitors, and our environment with respect.
To ensure that all campers’ experience at Camp Shomria is positive, and to help ensure the safety and security of all participants, the Camper and their Parents/Guardians hereby acknowledge and agree to this code of conduct:
AS A CAMPER I WILL…
AS A CAMPER I WILL NOT…
As a camper I understand that if I am having trouble following this code of conduct, the following could happen:
AS A PARENT/GUARDIAN, I UNDERSTAND:
To ensure that all campers’ experience at Camp Shomria is positive, and to help ensure the safety and security of all participants, the Camper and their Parents/Guardians hereby acknowledge and agree to this code of conduct:
AS A CAMPER I WILL…
- Recognize I am a part of the Camp Shomria community. I will respect the environment, peers, staff and practices and customs that are part of the program. I will take responsibility for my own words and actions.
- Respect the rights of others and treat all community members with dignity and respect at all times, regardless of economic status, race, colour, national or ethnic origin, language group, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age or ability. I will be inclusive and kind to others.
- Be an active participant in creating a culture of consent at camp. This includes asking for consent before touching anyone (including all staff and campers). I will respect their answer and respond appropriately.
- Cooperate with all camp staff and follow their instructions. This includes rules and regulations put forth by any staff member.
- Treat the cabins as shared space and respect the needs of everyone there. I will respect others’ personal space, help keep my cabin and the surrounding environment clean and put all litter in the appropriate bins (compost and recycling protocols will be explained at the start of camp).
- Respect all areas of the camp that are considered off limits and not leave the campgrounds unless it is part of the program and under staff supervision.
- Be aware of and manage my attitude, body language, tones, expression, etc. in a way that makes others feel welcomed rather than excluded, and makes others feel positively encouraged rather than being negatively impacted. (Neurodiverse campers may find this more challenging. We expect campers to fulfill this obligation to the best of their ability and for families to disclose if this is an area of concern in the health form and work with our Community Care team to support their camper’s success at camp.)
- Talk to someone if I feel unsafe, or if I need help with anything (including understanding and following rules or instructions). Utilize the health team (community care and medical staff) when needed.
- Have lots of FUN, a positive attitude, and always try to have a GREAT time.
AS A CAMPER I WILL NOT…
- Be mean, bully, exclude or put down other campers or staff online or in-person. I will NEVER hit, threaten, intimidate, or inappropriately touch anyone.
- Not touch any camper or staff member that has not provided explicit consent for me to do so.
- Engage in any act of harassment or abuse including, but not limited to, physical, emotional, psychological, verbal or sexual harassment or abuse, obscene conduct, violence, immoral behaviour, sexually inappropriate behaviour and bullying, or foul, inappropriate, or abusive language (this includes language of a sexually explicit nature).
- Violate the camp’s zero tolerance policy around drugs (including marijuana), alcohol, smoking, vaping or any prohibited act or substance as defined by both law and camp regulations.
- Deliberately hurt anybody’s feelings, which includes pulling pranks on others that could cause someone to feel offended or unsafe or that might result in retaliation, which could lead to injury or property damage.
- Behave in a way at camp, in the city, at school, through social media or otherwise, that is abusive, harassing, inappropriate or that goes against the spirit of this Agreement with respect to other campers, staff, or members of our community.
- Use or be in possession of a cell phone or any device that can connect to the internet (including smart watches).
As a camper I understand that if I am having trouble following this code of conduct, the following could happen:
- I may be asked to participate in a process of reflection, learning, accountability, repair, and reintegration. This could include multiple steps as needed to address the issue, including follow up to support me in my ability to adhere to this code of conduct and participate positively as a member of the camp community.
- I may have a meeting with my counsellors, or one of the members of the Hanhaga (Leadership Team), Community Care team, Educational Director, or the Camp Director.
- A staff member might call my parents to discuss my behaviour.
- I may be given, or be asked to carry out, a suitable consequence to be decided by camp staff. (Examples of consequences include but are not limited to: writing an apology letter, missing activities, losing privileges, having your own bunk (cabin) or bunk mates moved, being sent home from camp early at your parent/guardian(s) expense and responsibility, not being allowed to attend or return to camp etc.)
- If my behavior is hurtful to myself, others, or camp property, I will likely be sent home that same day or as soon as possible thereafter at the parent/guardian(s) full expense and responsibility.
AS A PARENT/GUARDIAN, I UNDERSTAND:
- I acknowledge that my child will be best supported at camp when I communicate openly and work with camp staff in partnership, understanding that we are a team dedicated to the wellbeing of my child(ren) and the whole camp community.
- There is often no ‘hard evidence’ in matters relating to relational responsibility, bullying or similar areas of conduct. Nonetheless, I trust and accept the camp to make determinations on these matters and accept the judgement of the camp and any related consequences included, but not limited to, dismissal from camp.
- There are no entitlements to refunds of any kind if a camper is sent home for behavioural reasons (all the above).
- I am fully committed to this Code of Conduct and agree to its content.
- I will always treat the camp and the staff with respect regardless of circumstances or challenges that may arise. If I fail to meet this expectation, it will be deemed to reflect a failure to trust the camp and its staff. Therefore, I understand that my child(ren) may be sent home from camp and/or not be accepted back to camp.
- I will accurately disclose all information as requested and implied in the health form including medical, psychological and socio-emotional issues or concerns past or present. I understand that comments or complaints are to be directed to the camp’s professional staff.
Food and Allergies.
Camp Shomria is able to accommodate most dietary needs for our campers and staff, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options as well as accommodating for allergies shared with us through the health forms.
We provide kosher-style food service, which means that although not all ingredients have a hechsher, we do not serve meat and dairy in the same meal, nor do we serve pork, seafood, or shellfish. Campers and staff who keep fully kosher at home generally choose to eat vegetarian meals while at camp.
We are a peanut-aware camp. This means we do not serve peanut butter or peanut products, but some of our ingredients will have a "may contain" warning.
We provide kosher-style food service, which means that although not all ingredients have a hechsher, we do not serve meat and dairy in the same meal, nor do we serve pork, seafood, or shellfish. Campers and staff who keep fully kosher at home generally choose to eat vegetarian meals while at camp.
We are a peanut-aware camp. This means we do not serve peanut butter or peanut products, but some of our ingredients will have a "may contain" warning.
COVID-19.
All members of the Camp Shomria community are strongly encouraged to stay current with recommended vaccinations and boosters against COVID-19 (please note this is a change from our previous policy which required two doses). By registering for Camp Shomria programs you acknowledge and accept the inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 and agree to adhere to any COVID-19 protocols that we may institute throughout the year. All COVID-19 protocols are subject to change at the discretion of the Camp Shomria leadership. We are not requiring pre-camp testing this year. Campers are welcome to wear a mask if they would like to (please make sure to pack some if you think your child will want to wear one on a regular basis).
Lice Policy.
Head lice are tiny insects which live on the scalp. They do not pose a health threat; they are, however, a nuisance. You are responsible to ensure that your child does not come to camp with lice.
As a courtesy to fellow campers and staff, we require that everyone who will be attending camp this summer to be checked 5-7 days prior to the start of camp and then again the day before departure. Any evidence of nits (lice eggs), nymphs (tiny immature lice bugs) and adults (mature lice bugs) must be thoroughly removed. You can do this yourself (using on-line resources or you can book a professional lice inspection at a convenient location for you and with any number of other providers across the GTA.
We will be conducting a mandatory lice check within the first 24 hours of arrival at camp. If your child is found to have any evidence of head lice on arrival (or at any time during camp), the camp will do its best to treat your child, which may include services administered by an outside professional. Families will be charged for the cost of lice treatments.
Please note that part of the treatment process involves extensive combing and depending on the severity of the case, this could be anywhere from 3-6 sessions in the Health Centre. Not only does this disrupt the medical program, but more importantly, it takes time away from your child being able to enjoy camp as it is meant to be. Campers or staff with lice/nits will also experience periods of isolation from regular activities and/or be required to wear a head covering as determined by camp staff.
If you are planning on booking a professional screening with a professional service, of which many are available, it is recommended that you call in advance as their clinics are often by appointment. Direct numbers can be found on the above linked websites but feel welcome to find a suitable service close to your home.
As a courtesy to fellow campers and staff, we require that everyone who will be attending camp this summer to be checked 5-7 days prior to the start of camp and then again the day before departure. Any evidence of nits (lice eggs), nymphs (tiny immature lice bugs) and adults (mature lice bugs) must be thoroughly removed. You can do this yourself (using on-line resources or you can book a professional lice inspection at a convenient location for you and with any number of other providers across the GTA.
We will be conducting a mandatory lice check within the first 24 hours of arrival at camp. If your child is found to have any evidence of head lice on arrival (or at any time during camp), the camp will do its best to treat your child, which may include services administered by an outside professional. Families will be charged for the cost of lice treatments.
Please note that part of the treatment process involves extensive combing and depending on the severity of the case, this could be anywhere from 3-6 sessions in the Health Centre. Not only does this disrupt the medical program, but more importantly, it takes time away from your child being able to enjoy camp as it is meant to be. Campers or staff with lice/nits will also experience periods of isolation from regular activities and/or be required to wear a head covering as determined by camp staff.
If you are planning on booking a professional screening with a professional service, of which many are available, it is recommended that you call in advance as their clinics are often by appointment. Direct numbers can be found on the above linked websites but feel welcome to find a suitable service close to your home.
Unplugged Policy.
Being at camp is an opportunity to unplug and get back to basics. Most of our time is spent outdoors, enjoying nature, participating in creative games and programming, and taking the time to think, breathe, connect with others, learn and grow.
Chinuch (education) is a major part of our program, involving informal discussions and activities that provide chanichimot with an understanding of historical and current events and social issues to help them develop into socially conscious members of the Jewish and global community. Each kvutza has its own age-appropriate curriculum that explores Hashomer Hatzair’ values and pillars and creates an opportunity for exploring their relevance in today’s world. Chanichimot are encouraged to be active in shaping their own educational experience by raising topics of interest and choosing activities that align with their areas of interest and curiosity.
Kef (fun) is core to daily life at Camp Shomria. Education, social development, and the formation of lifelong friendships all take place in an atmosphere that encourages chanichimot (campers) to truly enjoy the summer. Fun at camp is often low-tech and gets campers and staff of every age engaging imaginatively and with plenty of opportunities for humour and silliness.
Teva, Tiyul, and Tzofiut (nature, tripping, scouting) find their way into daily life and programming at camp in ways big and small. Our goal is to foster love of the outdoors, self-reliance and good teamwork. Our diverse programming includes swimming, hiking, and camping skills.
Chinuch (education) is a major part of our program, involving informal discussions and activities that provide chanichimot with an understanding of historical and current events and social issues to help them develop into socially conscious members of the Jewish and global community. Each kvutza has its own age-appropriate curriculum that explores Hashomer Hatzair’ values and pillars and creates an opportunity for exploring their relevance in today’s world. Chanichimot are encouraged to be active in shaping their own educational experience by raising topics of interest and choosing activities that align with their areas of interest and curiosity.
Kef (fun) is core to daily life at Camp Shomria. Education, social development, and the formation of lifelong friendships all take place in an atmosphere that encourages chanichimot (campers) to truly enjoy the summer. Fun at camp is often low-tech and gets campers and staff of every age engaging imaginatively and with plenty of opportunities for humour and silliness.
Teva, Tiyul, and Tzofiut (nature, tripping, scouting) find their way into daily life and programming at camp in ways big and small. Our goal is to foster love of the outdoors, self-reliance and good teamwork. Our diverse programming includes swimming, hiking, and camping skills.
Phone Calls and Communication with Campers Policy.
To allow for the best possible adjustment for your child to life at camp, we ask that you do not call the camp with the expectation of speaking with them directly. If there is a problem, please be assured that we will call you. It is our experience that phone calls home do not help children who are having a difficult time adjusting to camp life. Please do not tell your child(ren) that they may call you whenever they want, or if they want to go home or feel homesick. Instead, encourage them to discuss their problems or concerns with their madrichimot (counsellors), the Rosh Chinuch (Head of Education), Community Care staff, or any other staff member they feel comfortable to speak with. Phone calls between campers and their families may be arranged at the discretion of the camp staff.
Campers may call home on their own birthday. Birthday calls are generally made in the evening after dinner. If you would like to arrange a specific time for your child to make their birthday call, please contact our office and we will make the arrangements.
Camp Shomria will call parents/guardians if there are any health or other concerns. We will also call at your request around concerns that you have identified.
In case of an emergency, please contact Jenny (Camp Director) at 416-821-5798. If you cannot reach her for any reason, please call Maydan or Jacob (numbers listed above under important numbers).
Please note that when you call the camp office, the staff person who answers the phone may not immediately know the answer to your question or be able to address your concern. You may be asked to leave your name and a phone number where you can be reached by the appropriate staff member as soon as possible.
During the summer you can expect consistent communication from Camp Shomria:
Campers may call home on their own birthday. Birthday calls are generally made in the evening after dinner. If you would like to arrange a specific time for your child to make their birthday call, please contact our office and we will make the arrangements.
Camp Shomria will call parents/guardians if there are any health or other concerns. We will also call at your request around concerns that you have identified.
In case of an emergency, please contact Jenny (Camp Director) at 416-821-5798. If you cannot reach her for any reason, please call Maydan or Jacob (numbers listed above under important numbers).
Please note that when you call the camp office, the staff person who answers the phone may not immediately know the answer to your question or be able to address your concern. You may be asked to leave your name and a phone number where you can be reached by the appropriate staff member as soon as possible.
During the summer you can expect consistent communication from Camp Shomria:
- Staff will call and introduce themselves the week before camp to get to know you and your camper. This is a great opportunity for you to share any insights on how your child is feeling about the transition to camp and any tips or strategies of how to best support them getting settled into camp life. (Please note that your phone will likely show a call from a Private Number not Camp Shomria)
- Staff will call a few days into camp to check in and share how campers are adjusting to life at camp (please note that your phone will likely show a call from a Private Number not Camp Shomria)
- Photos will be posted 2-3 times per week (photos will not be posted daily) to our Family Photo Album. The link for this album will be available to registered families for Summer 2024 when you login to your CampBrain account.
- Photos will be posted regularly to our social media channels (Facebook and Instagram) @CampShomriaCanada
- Weekly email updates
No Packages Policy.
We have a 'no packages' policy. Please try to send your child(ren) up to camp with everything they will need for the summer. Of course, if your child writes home requesting an extra sweater because they are cold, or would like some extra reading material, you may feel free to send it up to camp (though you might want to check with our office first as we probably have something to lend!). However, we would like to discourage packages of any kind as we find that they create feelings of comparison and competition among campers.
