Expectations & Celebrations
Every camper is entitled to a respectful, affirming camp experience. Campers are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that ensures a safe environment for everyone and to assume responsibility for their actions. Please look over the camp expectations and talk about these with your camper before they arrive at camp! We also hope you will save this sheet and remind your camper of these expectations as often as possible.
Behavior Guidelines
Campers listen and follow directions given by staff.
Campers respect the personal space of others by keeping their bodies to themselves.
Campers ask permission to leave your group and never go anywhere alone.
Campers arrive at their activities ready to learn.
Campers communicate respectfully with adults and fellow campers. Swearing, teasing, and derogatory comments will not be tolerated at Hale.
Campers are always on time.
At camp, nothing flies through the air.
Caregivers and supporters can also make sure their camper is successful by making sure
Campers do not bring cell phones, electronic devices, or money to camp. There is nothing to buy, limited cell phone signals, and nowhere to charge electronics.
Campers will participate in scheduled activities with their group.
Campers will respect themselves, other campers, the environment, facilities, and staff.
If you feel that your camper may struggle with any of these expectations or rules, please contact us, so we can set up an appropriate behavior plan while your camper is in our care. When a camper is unable to meet one of the above expectations, a behavior warning is given. The camp director will contact parents should disciplinary issues occur. Whenever possible, we work with campers and their families to modify or manage problematic behavior.
Multiple behavior warnings may result in your camper not being able to return to camp.
Unexpected Behavior Policy & Consequences at Camp
The first time a camper misbehaves, and provided the behavior does not directly affect another camper, corrective action is a private discussion between the counselor(s) and the camper. This information is relayed to a camp lead so they can take note of it. If inappropriate behavior occurs again, the camp lead will have a conversation with the camper. If the camper continues to exhibit inappropriate behavior, one of the camp directors will meet with the camper and contact their parent or guardian. If a physical incident occurs (a camper hits, pushes, bullies, or exhibits any form of violence toward another camper), or if a camper does something that endangers their safety or the safety of others (such as running away from the group), then the camper is referred to a director and the camper’s parent or guardian is immediately notified. Hale Day Camp prohibits corporal punishment, and no camper shall be subjected to cruelty, humiliation, or verbal abuse. Campers shall not be denied food or shelter as a form of punishment or be punished for soiling, wetting, or toilet use. Discipline shall be consistent and appropriate, given the circumstances.
Suspension
If a camper is asked to “take a day off,” they may not return to camp until their parent or guardian meets with the camp director. Behaviors that warrant suspension include:
Bullying
Continually disobeying a counselor’s direction
Leaving the group
Endangering or purposefully hurting another camper
Stealing or destroying property
Engaging in inappropriate or illegal behavior
Bringing weapons to camp
No refunds will be offered for days missed.
Dismissal from Camp
While we try to do everything we can to support your camper(s), sometimes our program is not a fit given your camper's needs. We will work with families to develop targeted behavior plans and provide as much support as possible. In the event the camp directors feel we are no longer able to meet your camper's needs without significant disruption, the camp directors reserve the right to dismiss any camper when their behavior interferes with the rights and safety of others or with the smooth functioning of a group or activity. No refunds will be offered for days missed. Incidents of direct violence or events that jeopardize the safety of campers and/or staff can lead to immediate dismissal.
Don’t worry! We like to celebrate too!
We have high expectations for our campers, but we also believe that great behavior should be rewarded and have a variety of ways to highlight awesome behavior at camp! Ask your camper how they were celebrated at camp when they come home, they will be excited to share this with you!
Check out our camp calendar for weekly themes, and review the criteria for awards that are given to our campers for bringing their full selves to camp each day.
Talent Shows
On Friday mornings campers and staff kick off the day with a show. They showcase their skills at the All-Camp Talent Show! Campers can sing, dance, perform skits, tell jokes, or anything else they would like to share. Campers can perform with their whole group, individually, or with a small group. All campers are encouraged to participate, but those who choose not to can cheer on their fellow campers - as well as some counselors who have been known to take the stage!
Paper Plate Awards
Paper Plate Awards are rewarded to each camper at the end of the first week of a session. The Paper Plate Award is unique and special to each individual camper. A camper's Paper Plate Award is based on behaviors, personality traits, as well as anything else that made them stand out to their counselors over the course of the week.
Individual Awards
Star Campers
Star Camper Awards are for campers in Kinder and Lower Camps and are intended to recognize campers who exhibit consistent positive individual behaviors, such as being kind to peers, listening to their counselor or other leaders, and following directions.
Standout Campers
Standout Camper Awards are for campers in Middle Camp and are intended to recognize campers who exhibit consistent positive individual behaviors, as well as a strong sense of teamwork and respect.
Reliable Role Models
Reliable Role Model Awards are for campers in Upper Camp and are intended to recognize campers who exhibit consistent positive individual behaviors and are reliable role models for their peers and younger campers.