FAQ's
Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What if my child has food allergies? The nurse should have your child's allergy on file. If not, make sure to note it on the health forms when they come home. We provide Lake Williamson with the list of allergies, and they plan our menus accordingly.
What if my child requires a specific diet for health reasons, e.g. gluten free? We can ask Lake Williamson for the menu about two weeks prior to camp, and we can then pass it along to you. If you determine that your child's dietary needs won't be met by the menu, contact the camp director for instructions about sending food for your child.
What if my child gets homesick? We have a lot of experience with supporting children who get homesick, and are generally able to ease the pangs, and help your child enjoy the camp experience. If the homesickness is severe, and we feel it would be in your child's best interest, we will call and ask you to come and get him/her. (It has been well over ten years since we felt the need to do this!)
What if my child occasionally wets the bed? This is not uncommon. Contact the camp director to learn how we can handle this discretely.
Can my child bring a cell phone? We recommend that your child does not bring a cell phone for several reasons. First of all, the phone will have to stay in their luggage from the time they leave for breakfast until they get back to their room at 9:00. We need students to be focused on receiving instruction and participating in camp activities. Secondly, in our experience, if a child is homesick and talks to their parent, the homesickness gets worse. Thirdly, if there is an emergency of some kind at camp, you do not want to rely on information you get from your ten year old. And finally, we are not responsible if a phone gets lost, stolen or damaged.
What if there is an emergency at camp? A nurse is on staff at all times. If there is an emergency involving your child, such as an accident requiring medical attention, we will contact you directly as soon as your child is safe/cared for. If there is an emergency involving everyone, such as a weather emergency, you will be contacted through the district notification system.
What if there is a family emergency and I need to contact camp staff? During regular school hours, you may contact the office at your child's school: Discovery Elementary 636-757-6802, or Orchard Farm Elementary 636-757-8701. The message will be conveyed to us. Outside regular school hours, in emergency only, you may call the Activity Center Front Desk at 217-854-4824. Outside school hours, you may also call or text the camp director at 636-734-0741. Understand that cell service is not consistent, depending on where we are at camp.