index_summer_firstimecampers

Welcome to Raintree Ranch!

We are excited that we will have to opportunity to be a part of your child’s camp experience this summer. The following information answers questions commonly asked by first-time families. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have further questions!

Click on the question you want to find the answer for.

1. Will they see friends/siblings in other areas of camp?

2. What is the weather like?

3. How do you hire your counselors?

4. What happens if my child gets homesick?

5. How do you deal with Behavior issues or Bullying?

6. How can I contact my child while they are at camp?

7. How long can I stay after I drop off my child on Sunday?

8. What does pick up look like?

9. Should I send forms in before I arrive?

10. Is there a visiting day?

11. How does the camp store work?

12. Can they bring a cell phone or iPod?

13. Do most of the campers know each other already?

14. How do cabin-mate requests work?

Will they see friends/siblings in other areas of camp?

All campers eat their meals at the same time. Raintree is a fairly small community and most campers will see each other many times during the day. Riding groups are formed based on riding ability not age so they could be together or apart for those daily activities. They will see each other at evening activities and short spurts throughout the day.

What is the weather like?

During the summer it is typically comfortable in the mornings and evenings – please pack long pants and a sweater as it will occasionally get cool at night. During the day it gets warmer. We schedule activities like water carnival and free swim to make sure we stay cool. All campers are encouraged to wear hats and sunscreen during the day for sun protection. Local weather forecast

How do you hire your counselors?

The YMCA of San Diego County conducts nation-wide background checks on all staff before they start work at camp. Counselors are interviewed and we check a minimum of 3 references. We look for demonstrated experience as a role model, the ability to hold a high level of responsibility, a focus on safety and skills, and the enthusiasm for dedicating their summer to creating a safe and memorable experience for young people.

Our international counselors also go through an additional application and screening process with an agency in their home country.

What happens if my child gets homesick?

It is extremely rare that campers are sent home or leave due to homesickness. We work with individual campers to focus them on the experience of being at camp, building friendships, and the fun that happens each day. Sometimes a member of the leadership team may call a parent to find out more about the individual child so we can work together to address specific concerns. We don’t recommend campers talking with parents while they are at camp since this can quickly escalate the child’s desire to go home. There are things you can do to help prepare your child for a great camp experience.

How do you deal with Behavior issues or Bullying?

We have a four-step behavior management plan at camp that encourages all of the children to work together with their cabin mates and make positive choices. In the case of negative behavior we will meet with the camper(s) involved and together work through accepting responsibility for their action and come up with a plan to making better choices. If the behavior continues we will call to speak with a parent. And if it still does not improve and is negatively affecting the experience for other campers, the child is excused from camp (without a refund).

How can I contact my child while they are at camp?

Bunk1 - Upon arrival at camp each family will be given an access code to the Bunk1 link on our website. This allows you to view photos taken by our camp photographer each day and uploaded that evening. You can also send emails to your child(ren) through Bunk1. We deliver mail and emails to campers each day after lunch. Please understand that food items or packages containing items not appropriate for camp will be confiscated and returned to the office. Can campers call home? There is no phone or email access for campers to contact home. If you want a letter we encourage you to send a self-addressed, stamped envelope and give it to your child so they remember to fill you in on the fun of camp while they are away. Please do not send a cell phone with your child. If your child has a concern or problem, they need to communicate with parents through the office. For security and privacy reasons campers cannot have cell phones with them.

How long can I stay after I drop off my child on Sunday?

Once your child arrives at the cabin there will be a lot for them to do. Feel free to stay with them while they choose a bunk and make their bed. This is a great time to meet the counselor, ask questions and share any information you might have. As soon as your child is settled, we ask that you head home so they can focus on camp and start making friends. (If you are worried about this, please be ready to give them a smile and a big hug and leave quickly so you do not transfer your stress to your child!).

What is the Closing Friday schedule?

We have a Horse Show each Friday starting at 2:00 pm that families are invited to attend. We will check your ID on the way into camp then you can park your car. Make your way to the upper arena and watch your child perform. After the show we will provide a barbeque for your family. Sit, eat and enjoy meeting the new friends you camper has made during the week.

Should I send forms in before I arrive?

No. Please bring the following forms with you to check-in: Admission card, Health History Form, Store money, and medications in their original container, on the first day of camp. Store care package forms can be mailed or faxed ahead of time.

Is there a visiting day?

We do not have a visiting day during the camp session. Parent time to visit is at the end of the week for the horse show and family BBQ. Obviously if there is an emergency please call so we can help you with any necessary arrangements. Camp is a great time for children of all ages to increase independence and their sense of autonomy. Visits from home often lead to homesickness and can upset their camp experience.

How does the camp store work?

We do not allow campers to have money. You can deposit money into a store account during check-in. We recommend $20-$30 per week. Campers can order a snack and/or drink each day. They also have the opportunity to visit the store once during their stay to purchase souvenirs such as a t-shirt, stuffed animal or drink bottle. If you would like to purchase a care package for your camper you can do so on our website (order care packages), or on arrival to camp.

Can they bring a cell phone or iPod?

We do not allow any electronics at camp, including cell phone or iPods, and ask that campers do not bring anything of value since things could be damaged or lost. Camp is a great time for kids to take a break form technology and focus on healthy activities and building friendships.

Do most of the campers know each other already?

Roughly half of our campers are coming to camp for the first time. Returning campers are familiar with camp traditions and routines, and our evaluations show that the main reason campers return is because they enjoy meeting and making new friends. Camp is about building friendships. The activities are important and a lot of fun, but every part of camp is designed to build the group and provide opportunities for kids to interact and build friendships.

How do cabin-mate requests work?

On the registration form, there is a space to request one friend to be in your cabin. We only consider this if the request is mutual and the campers are in the same program and not more than 1 year apart in age. If more than 3 friends come together we always split them up to facilitate new relationships and friendships within the cabin group. There are typically 10 campers and 2 staff in each cabin, and the majority come on their own!