Page 14 - Camp Horseshoe Parent Handbook 2024

HOMESICKNESS
First, let us assure you that homesickness is normal. Severe homesickness is rare, we do expect new campers to be a little emotional about being away from home for the first time. Every child adjusts to being away from home differently and experiences some degree of homesickness or missing family, friends, and familiar routines.
As a parent you can help by reassuring your son that he is loved, talking positively about independence and separation, and not promising that they can call or come home if they are lonesome. Discuss camp in a positive way by discussing living in a cabin with friends or all the fun things they will be able to do at camp.
Parents should prepare themselves for separation also. Each summer we visit with more “child- sick” parents than we do with homesick campers! Always call us with your concerns about your child’s adjustment to camp and be assured that we will call you if we feel it is necessary.
We have one very important request: when you talk with your son about camp, please do not tell him that he can call home, or you will come get him if he is unhappy. Those promises set your son up to fail at camp. Focus on the positive, be encouraging, and let your son know you will be thinking of him, but don’t compromise his summer by offering to bring him home.
First year camp families can expect a call from a member of our leadership team at the end of the first week to give you an update on your son’s adjustment to camp. You can also feel free to call camp at any time to find out how he’s doing. We will more than likely be out of the office interacting with campers and we’ll get back to you with an update as soon as possible.
PHOTO POLICY
The camp reserves the right to use any pictures and/or video of your child for advertising or marketing purposes in both print and digital form including social media.
CAMPER BANK
All admissions, meals and activities are included in your son’s tuition and canteen account. Camper bank is used for extras & souvenirs.
If you would like to send extra spending money for your son, we suggest the following based on their age/trips out of camp. We keep cash in the safe in the office and he will be able to access before leaving camp on a trip. Any money that is not spent will be returned to his canteen account at the end of the season.
PIONEER, WOODSMAN & FORESTER 1- Current 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th graders $10 / session
FORESTER 2 - Current 6th graders GUIDE - Current 7th graders RANGERETTE - Current 8th graders CABIN 13 - Current 9th graders CABIN 14 - Current 10th graders
We accept Zelle (fran@camphorseshoe.com) or scan the QR code:
Or send a check to the winter office (before June 1st) Camp Horseshoe
P.O. Box 1938 Highland Park, IL 60035
$50 / 1st session. $10 / 2nd session $10 / 1st session $75 / 2nd session $75 / 1st session $25 / 2nd session $50 / 1st session $30 /2nd session $30 / 1st session $75 / 2nd session
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