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Camper Care

Expectations at Camp

Last updated on 04 Feb, 2026

We are so excited to welcome your camper to Eden Village Camp! đź’› Our goal is for every child to feel safe, supported, confident, and joyful throughout the summer.

This guide shares skills and routines that help campers thrive at camp. Our staff are trained to support campers through each part of the day with warmth, rituals, and gentle reminders. At the same time, campers are expected to practice growing independence and responsibility.

If any of these skills are new for your child, we encourage you to practice them at home before the summer. If something feels especially challenging, please reach out—we are happy to partner with you to build a support plan. We truly value working together to make this a successful and meaningful experience for your child.

Morning Routine: Mornings help set the tone for a great day at camp. Campers are expected to:

  • Stay in bed in their bunk until wake-up time (around 7am)

  • Get ready on time- wake up at first reminder, dress themselves and be ready to leave with the bunk

  • Help keep the cabin tidy through small chores ("beautification")

Self-Care Skills: Counselors will remind and encourage campers, but children are expected to complete these independently:

  • Putting on clean clothes

  • Applying sunscreen (required) and bug spray (optional)

    • There are two daily sunscreen times when everyone is told to put it on

    • Campers must apply it themselves without staff assistance

  • Brushing teeth and hair

  • Showering, adjusting water temperature, and washing hair

  • Making their own bed 

  • Stripping their own sheets to go into the laundry

  • Use the bathroom without assistance

  • Taking medication with support from the nurses

Meals: Meals are an important time for nourishment, connection, and community. Campers are expected to:

  • Eat something at every meal

  • Serve themselves- pouring milk, buttering bread, cutting chicken etc. 

  • Try at least one bite of new foods when possible

  • Ask for help finding food options if needed

  • Help clear the table

  • Practice general allergy awareness

  • Keep hydrated throughout the day - refilling their water bottle as needed

Bedtime Routine: Rest is essential for a happy and healthy camp experience. Campers are expected to: 

  • Do a quiet activity in bed during flashlight time (reading, writing letters, drawing, etc.)

  • Fall asleep independently (without music or individual adult attention)

  • Sleep in a mostly dark room

  • Get up to use the bathroom independently

  • Stay in bed until morning

Taking Care of Belongings: Learning to manage personal belongings helps campers feel prepared and safe in a new environment. Campers are expected to: 

  • Put away laundry after it is returned folded from the laundry service

  • Keep personal items organized in their cubby

  • Carry their hat and water bottle around camp

  • Let a counselor know if items are lost so replacements can be purchased

Participation & Behavior: Being part of the Eden Village community means showing up with kindness and responsibility. Campers are expected to: 

  • Participate in all activities

  • Stay with their group

  • Follow directions from staff on the first time they ask

  • Treat peers with kindness and respect

Communication & Letters Home: Staying connected with family is an important part of camp life. Campers are expected to: 

  • Write letters home twice per week

  • Address envelopes

  • Parent Note: We also HIGHLY recommend that you send your camper a letter every day. It can feel really hard when other campers get letters and you don't!

Self-Advocacy & Asking for Help: We want campers to feel comfortable speaking up for themselves. Campers are encouraged to: 

  • Ask counselors for help when needed

  • Share concerns, worries, or struggles early

  • Let staff know when something feels hard before it becomes overwhelming

Our Commitment to Your Family

At Eden Village, we believe in each child’s ability to grow, learn, and succeed. Our staff are committed to leading with warmth and care, offering clear structure, encouraging independence and partnering closely with families. Together, we can help your child build confidence, resilience, and beautiful memories that will last a lifetime. We are so grateful to be part of your child’s summer journey. 💛

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