Parents' Frequenly Asked Questions
How does Camp Tanadoona ensure safety?
At Camp Tanadoona, safety is a primary concern. We are accredited by the American Camp Association, which means we undergo a thorough review (300 standards) of our operations—from staff qualifications, and training to emergency management. American Camp Association® collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth-serving agencies to assure that current practices at the camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation.
What is the food like?
Overnight campers receive 3 meals each day. Day campers can purchase hot lunch for $25/week. Snacks are provided for all campers. A sample lunch might include a chicken patty sandwich, pasta salad, watermelon wedges, and a cookie. Salad bar is included in lunch. Dinner is served family-style.
My child is shy, would camp be a good experience for him/her?
Our camp counselors are trained to work with each child's unique needs. Many shy children benefit tremendously from the camp experience and grow in confidence. The best way to ensure a positive experience for your child is to prepare before camp begins. We suggest you and your child visit camp beforehand to get familiar with the camp atmosphere and discuss with your child what to expect.
Can I visit camp?
You are invited to visit camp during our two open houses:
Saturday, April 24, 2010 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Saturday, June 19, 2010
1:00 - 4:00 PM
or you may schedule a visit by calling (952) 474-6255.
During camp, you may visit your child during our family nights. For children in day camp we invite families on Monday evening to meet the counselors and tour camp. We invite families of overnight campers to come to a closing ceremony on Friday evening.
Do the counselors undergo background checks?
Yes! All counselors undergo professional background checks.
How do you select your camp counselors?
We carefully select our counselors for their maturity, patience, outdoor skills and their commitment to acting as positive, caring role models. Many of our counselors are college students. About half are international counselors who come from all over the world. These counselors add a very special aspect to our programs and kids love learning about our counselors' homelands. Every counselor participates in a 10-day training course as well as in-service training.
What is the ratio of counselors to campers?
Typically the counselor to camper ratios are 1:8 or 1:12 depending on the program and age of the campers.
Can I sign my child up with a friend?
Campers may sign-up with one friend. The buddy must be the same gender, in the same grade, and registered for the same session. Please indicate on your registration if your child has a buddy.
How much money should I put in my child's store account?
The camp store sells a variety of fun items for campers such as camp keepsakes, snacks, t-shirts, etc. Items range from 25¢ to $30. Most campers spend about $20/week at the store.
My child has special health care needs
Health staff (a registered nurse or certified first aid staff) are on site at camp at all times. We can accommodate most healthcare needs. All medications are dispensed by designated camp staff.
What do campers do during rainy days?
We give the campers the option to continuing playing outdoors if it's lightly raining. When the lightening/thunder starts we move indoors where counselors lead a variety of fun activities for campers such as crafts or team-building games.
Have a question we didn't anwer?
Email us at: tanadoona@campfireusa-mn.org
