Thursday, May 12, 2016

Getting Ready for Pony Farm Summer Camp

Dear Camp Families,

Camp is quickly approaching and it will be here before you know it!  This is be our 45th summer of camp and I think I love camp more each day.  Listed below are some heads ups, tips, and tricks for you and your camper's upcoming summer experience.  (Please note all this information is on the website year round.)

Camp Forms - If you haven't already, please send in your camp forms.  They are due June 1st.  Your camper's forms contain a lot of critical information in them to help us get to know them and prepare for your child's arrival. Here is the link in case you need it again - http://www.touchstone-farm.org/pdf/TSFPonyFarmCampForms.pdf

What to Pack -  Here is the link to our packing list - http://www.touchstone-farm.org/pdf/TSFPonyFarmPackingListforCampers.pdf  This is a one week packing list!  For a 2 week session, we send the laundry out.  Please do follow the packing list.  Don"t bring anything that you or your daughter doesn't want to get ruined or lost.  Remember if you want it back...put your name in it!

Policies - Here is a link to our Camp Policies - http://www.touchstone-farm.org/pony-farm-summer-camp/philosophy-1

Camp Meds - We will not be accepting any medicine that is not in the original container, whether it is over the counter or prescribed.  One of our camp nurses will be at opening day to accept your camper's medicine.    If your camper needs to have their pills cut, please bring your own pill cutter.

Opening Day and Closing Day - Below is a link about Opening and Closing Day information so that you can plan accordingly and know what to anticipate. http://www.touchstone-farm.org/pony-farm-summer-camp/dates-and-rates-1

Homesickness -  If you or your camper are concerned about homesickness here are my top tips!
1.  Don't make a pick up deal with them!  Instill your confidence in your camper!  Tell them what a wonderful experience they are about to embark on!  Remind them of how much fun they will have and talk about camp in a positive manner.  

2. Come for a tour!  Schedule a tour with me and come see the farm!  Get to know the farm, myself and how a day runs!  

3. Explore our website, http://www.touchstone-farm.org/pony-farm-summer-camp, and our Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/ponyfarmsummercamp/, together!  There are tons of pictures and wonderful information including sample menus, how a day runs, and a sample schedule for the week!

4.  Visit ACA's website for more tips and tricks on homesickness - http://www.acacamps.org/campers-families/planning-camp/preparing-camp/coping-homesickness

Questions or Concerns - Please don't hesitate to email or call me, bhawkes@touchstone-farm.org or 603-654-6308, about any questions or concerns that you or your camper maybe having.  I also teach second grade, so it might be tough to reach me in the office at times.  I do have set Office Hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays after school.

It is only 40 more days till camp starts!  But who's counting!

See you all real soon!

Best,

Becky