I can't think of a place thatChoosing a camp is an important (and difficult) task. You should research a variety of camps, looking closely at community and values, methods of communication, and programming. You should interview the directors and learn the level and methods of training that the counselors receive. Get references from other parents and ultimately, find a camp that you are comfortable with and your child is excited about.
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Preparation
Sending your child away to camp for the first time is a major milestone for most families. One of the most important things you as a parent can do to help prepare your child for camp is to talk with your child about it before they go. Talk with them several times, without putting to much pressure or emotional weight on decisions. Let them ask questions, and then give them (or find out) the answers. We, the directors, try to meet every camper before camp starts, so if you would like a personal visit, or a home visit with another camper in your area, please contact our office. Also, we are always available to answer any questions you or your camper may have. While there is no single indicator whether a child is ready for a session at Plantation, children develop the necessary skills for success if they have spent nights away from home without their parents (even just at grandparents house or sleepovers). For more information, visit our Articles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes your summer camp unique, and why should we choose you?
Plantation is FUN! Lots of fun! Like a great summer camp should be. What makes Plantation special is its unique combination of farm life and camp activities, and its gorgeous setting in the Northern California redwoods. Campers each have a farm chore making them an active, contributing member of the community. They then get to choose their own activities each day, designing their own program and taking responsibility for their own good time. By providing an environment that is safe, both physically and psychologically, Plantation also creates supportive relationships and opportunities for children to belong and feel like they matter. A former camper (who is now sending her two children to our camp) puts it best: “Plantation, with its emphasis on the whole kid, forming relationships, learning simple life, unstructured play, and giving kids responsibilities and choices is the perfect atmosphere to foster strong self-esteem and find the important things in life.”
How many campers attend each session?
Each of our sessions has a capacity of 100 campers. We also have a Camper in Leadership Training program for kids aged 15.5 -- 17 year old.
What is the camper to counselor ratio?
We have a 4:1 ratio of campers to counselors. This ratio does not include additional staff such as the directors, kitchen, support, or ranch management staff. To learn more about our great staff, click here to read their biographies.
How do you handle "homesickness"?
We don't like the term homesickness, because we feel that it is a normal and natural part of growing up to miss your home. Everyone (including counselors!) can get a little sad when they are in a new place, and at Plantation, we pay a little more attention to our first-time campers. With our low camper to staff ratio (between 3 and 4 to 1), we are able to provide a lot of close supervision and care. Our counselors are trained in various methods, including engaging them in activities, setting realistic goals, writing or talking about what you miss at home, and often the most effective tactic, just listening to the camper and letting them know that we care about them. Typically, homesickness lasts for the first two or three days, and then the pace and excitement of camp draws everyone into the flow. Additionally, one of the directors will check in with the parents of each first-time camper during the first three days of camp to let them know how the campers are doing.
What does the ACA logo mean?
The American Camp Association is a community of camp professionals who, for nearly 100 years, have joined together to share our knowledge and experience and to ensure the quality of camp programs. Use of the ACA logo certifies that Plantation is accredited. From the ACA website: ACA Accreditation means that the camp you are considering for your child cares enough to undergo a thorough (over 300 standards) review of its operation — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management. American Camp Association collaborates with experts from The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth service agencies to assure that current practices at the camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. Camps and ACA form a partnership that promotes summers of growth and fun in an environment committed to safety. For more information please visit the ACA website www.acacamps.org
What is the camper return rate?
Our average camper return rate is above 65%.
Who are the counselors?
Plantation ’s staff is approximately 50 people who are exciting, vibrant, and committed to helping kids have a great summer. The counseling, support, and administrative staff come from all over the United States, as well as countries such as New Zealand, Australia, England, and South Africa, to name a few. We strive to have a diverse staff and to build a strong, supportive community.
What are the living accommodations?
Boys and girls are separated by gender and age into living units. Each camper shares an 8-foot by 8-foot canvas platform tent with one other camper. .Three counselors live in each unit, supervising daily life and camper well-being. In their unit, campers have a secure group to return to at the end of each fun-filled day.Everyone is provided with a foam camp mattress. We recommend bringing a pillow, sleeping bag, and a bottom sheet.
What is the food like at camp?
Meals at Plantation are an important part of the camp experience. We serve homemade, healthful meals with as much farm-fresh, organic food as we can. The beef, lamb, and pork that is served is all free-range and raised on the farm. Many of the vegetables and herbs that are served are grown in our organic garden. For more information, see our Food section.
What are the showers like?
Our showers are outdoor, wood-fired showers with private stalls. Each unit has its own dedicated shower.
Are there medical services available?
We have a registered nurse on site 24 hours a day to oversee camper health. Emergency services are just minutes away. You can read about out nurses in our Staff Bio section.
What is a typical day?
Every day begins with a wake-up bell around 8 am that signals to everyone at Plantation that it is time to go take care of morning chores. With the animals fed, we gather on the patio for a family-style breakfast followed by morning singing, and announcements. During announcements campers select their activities for the morning from a slate of approximately a dozen options, which have been selected the evening before based on camper interest. After the morning activity period, we have lunch and a brief rest period prior to the afternoon activity period. Afternoon activities are followed by Tea Time where the entire camp take break before afternoon chores and shower time. We then all gather back on the patio for dinner. Evenings are filled with dramas, barn dances, or activities on the front lawn. Campers then return to their units to have camp fires, tell stories, and reflect on their day before bed.
How do campers select their activities?
Campers select their activities three times a day. This allows campers to design their own program based upon their interests and how they are feeling that day. We put together a diverse program from dozens of activities and campers have multiple opportunities to try out whatever they like.
Do you have any special deals with your tuition?
We offer a number of discounts. The Early Bird discount of $200 is applied for each camper’s tuition that is paid in full prior to December 15. We also offer a discount of $200 for siblings who enroll at camp together (not counting Family Camp).
Cancellation policy/ can I get a refund?
If notice of cancellation is received, in writing, prior to May 1st, your tuition will be refunded, less the $500 deposit. If cancellation occurs after May 1st, no allowance, refunds or rebates will be made on tuition due to the fact that all camping programs are planned in advance, including purchasing of camper’s supplies and equipment, and hiring of personnel based on confirmed camper reservations. We do offer tuition insurance through TravMark (www.travmark.com).
How do campers get to camp?
We provide chaperoned, chartered bus transportation from the Oakland Airport, Berkeley, and Rohnert Park. If you prefer, you may drive your camper to Plantation (approximately 25% of campers are dropped off at camp). If you are driving from San Francisco it will take you about two hours to get to camp (click here for directions).
How do I send my camper a letter? Can I send a care package?
Letters can be sent to the camp address and email can be sent by going to our website and clicking on BunkOne. Mail is distributed once a day after lunch. Care packages are not allowed and all food items will be confiscated.
Articles
Please visit www.campparents.org/expertadvice.php for more articles that we really like.