Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How do I add a friend request for my camper?

• You can log onto your account & in the MyY section, select Programs.
• This will display a list of everything your family is registered for.
• You can find the Camp, Week and Child, and click on View/Edit Additional Information to update their answers for that week.
• Contact customer service if you have any issues.

How do I update my campers’ approved pickups?

• You can log onto your account & in the MyY section, select Programs.
• This will display a list of everything your family is registered for.
• You can find the Camp, Week and Child, and click on View/Edit Additional Information to update their answers for that week.
• Contact customer service if you have any issues.

Staff selection: How are staff members selected?

• Each staff member goes through an extensive hiring process including a criminal history background check, reference checks and an interview.
• Staff receives over 40 hours of training including training in camp program areas, relating to children, licensing policies, health and safety skills and are First Aid and CPR certified.
• Staff members are committed to being positive role models for campers.

Wee Backpackers (Wee Bees) and Little Seeds: What do I need to know about Wee Bees and Little Seeds?

• Special care is given to our Wee Bees and Little Seeds throughout the day.
• Children are required to be potty trained.
• Wee Bees and Little Seeds sit at the front of the bus with staff or parents may drop their child off at camp.
• Staff makes sure Wee Bees and Little Seeds are eating and drinking enough water during the day and assist with their backpacks.
• If your child needs extra help in a certain area please give a note to the Bus Captain or the Camp Director and they will make sure the counselor is aware of your child’s needs.
• Additional camp paperwork will be required for campers ages 4-6. The state of Wisconsin requires the Health History and Emergency Care Plan form and Immunization Record at camp.

Bad Weather: What happens on rainy or severe heat days?

• Camp is held rain or shine. Many fun-filled activities are planned for rainy days.
• Campers must dress accordingly for the weather with appropriate rain gear.
• Activities are modified outside to fit rainy days and are often held inside rain shelters. Some of the best camp memories for children can be had on rainy days! NOTE: Your child may return home wet and muddy.
• To keep campers safe during extremely hot days, certain activities may be canceled. Campers are consistently encouraged to drink lots of water and will play more water games and activities in the shade.

Severe weather: Is my child safe at camp during severe weather?

• Camp staff are trained in emergency procedures.
• If a tornado warning has been issued while the children are at camp, staff will bring them directly to the Tornado Shelter
• The Camp Director will notify the camp office immediately if the bus will be delayed.

What about Air Quality Concerns? 

• In times of Air Quality Alerts, we carefully follow the guidance from the Wisconsin Pollution Control Agency, National Weather Service, CDC, and Wisconsin Department of Health.
• We monitor and adjust programming as needed to ensure children safely can participate in our outdoor programs.
• Adjustments include slowing down physical activity, emphasizing hydration, and spending more time in our indoor spaces.
• For campers with specific health concerns, sensitivity to air quality or other concerns, we ask that guardians speak with a camp leader for accommodations.
• Your child’s safety and welfare is our top priority.

Emergencies: What are the camp’s emergency procedure drills?

• To ensure the continued safety of all campers in case of an emergency, we will conduct emergency procedure (waterfront emergency, lost camper, tornado warning, bus evacuation) drills on a regular basis.
• Your child must participate in these drills, just as they participate in fire and tornado drills at school.

Injury: What if my child is injured at camp?

• If your child is injured Y staff will notify you.
• In case of an emergency, Y staff will:

1. Call 911, perform immediate First Aid and contact you. After 911 has been called, the emergency response team will determine next steps.
2. If emergency transport is required, a staff member will accompany the child to the hospital, and remain until the parent/guardian arrives.
3. If a parent/guardian cannot be reached, we will continue to call those listed on your emergency contact list until contact is made.

Days missed/illness:  What if my child is ill?

• If your child is ill or must miss camp, please notify the camp by phone or leave a message on our voicemail.
• Please see Medication & Illness Procedures on P12 and medication form on P13 of the Parent Handbook.

Cancellations: How do I cancel my camper from camp?

• If your plans change and you must cancel your camper, please contact the Customer Service Center at 612-230-9622 right away.

Our cancellation policy: Cancellation or changes to the original camp registration must be made in writing by Monday, one week prior to the start of the camp session. Submit to YMCA Customer Service Center via mail or customer web page. If no notice is received, you will be billed for the original enrollment choices. A $10 change fee is applied to each change with the exception of buddy changes. No refunds on registration deposits.

Swimming: What should I know about swim time?