Camps, Conferences, School and Community Programs inspiring Youth to Action
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Frequent Questions From Parents

What is the camp store?
The camp store has items that campers may need while at camp or on their trips.  We recommend that parents deposit into their camper's account $20-$40 per week.  We encourage you to have a conversation at home about priorities for spending money in the camp store.  Please make sure your camper does not bring cash to camp. 

Does my child have to take swimming lessons?
Swimming lessons are taught by staff who have American Red Cross certifications in WSI (Water Safety Instructor training) and in Lifeguarding.  Each camper will participate in a swim check in the first days of camp.  Miniwanca offers American Red Cross swimming lessons up to Level III.  If your camper has not reached this swimming proficiency, we will require him/her to take swimming lessons, unless you give approval for your camper to opt out of lessons.  This approval can be made on the Camper Information Forms.

Can I request that my camper be in the same cabin as another camper?
Miniwanca does not guarantee cabin placements for campers.  If there is a specific concern about cabin placement (with or without another campers), then that need should be communicated to us in the Camper Information Forms or over the phone prior to the beginning of camp.  When placing campers in cabins, we make considerations based on the campers' needs listed on the these forms.  We strive to make the best decisions for all campers within the cabin group. 

My camper is staying for two sessions, Session A and B.  What will they do during the time between sessions?
Our session combination campers who are here between Session A and B get to enjoy what we call "Intersession".  Similar to the camp session, campers are supervised by camp staff.  One highlight is an off-site field trip.  The weekend is spent relaxing, having fun, and recharging for Session B.

Who are my child's leaders?
Cabin Leaders are at least 18 years old and have had an equivalent of one year of college.  Leaders have an extensive hiring process, including two interviews, three references, and a background check.  They receive 2-3 weeks of staff training prior to the start of camp.  All leaders have a minimum certification in First Aid and CPR.  Four Trails trip leaders are 21 years old and are certified in Wilderness First Responder.

What happens if my child loses something at camp?
Campers should frequently check the Lost and Found for missing items.  Items left or found at the end of the camp session that are clearly labeled with your child's name and worth over $20.00 will be mailed back to you.  Mailing costs will be the responsibility of the family.  There is no guarantee that items lost will be found.  Miniwanca claims no financial responsibility for personal items lost, stolen, or damaged during your child's stay at camp.

Items such as passports, plane tickets, or musical instruments can be stored in the camp office for safekeeping.  Please be sure to leave the items on the "Do Not Bring' list at home - especially MP3 players, cell phones, and Gameboys.

What happens if my child becomes homesick?
It is natural for most children to experience a degree of homesickness, particularly if this is their first time away from home.  It is common that parents receive a "homesick" letter, only to call camp and learn that the homesick feelings have passed and the camper is having fun.

Miniwanca proactively plans the first 48 hours of camp to accelerate the "get to know you" process for campers.  Cabin leaders will do activities that we call "ice breakers" to help acclimate campers to cabinmates and to Miniwanca.  They will also begin team building activities and create a Cabin Recipe for Success.

A camper's support system comes from his/her cabin leader, who will try to help them set goals.  If homesickness persists, the Camp Director will be involved, and may be in contact with you to discuss the situation and help resolve the situation.  If the Camp Director and the parents feel a call home is necessary, it is helpful for parents to keep the conversation positive and proactive.  The Camp Director and parents will stay in contact and assess next steps.

Dealing with homesickness is a cooperative effort between parents, camper, and staff.  We hope to work together to ensure the best possible camp experience for your child.  Suggestions about steps our staff can take to set your child up for success can be included on the Camper Information Forms.