FAQ Table of Contents
- International Students
- Multi-Week Stays
- Safety and Security
- Health and Medical Care
- Food and Dietary Restrictions
- Activities and Program Quality
- Communication
- Behavior and Discipline
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
- Packing and Preparation
- Emergency Procedures
- Camper Supervision
- Allergies
- Medication Management
- Cultural Sensitivity
- Technology Use
- Transportation
- Payment and Refunds
- Sun Protection
- Skill Development
- Privacy and Photography
- Sibling Placement
- Special Needs
- Homesickness Mitigation
- Homesickness Communication
- Lost Belongings
- Camp Duration
- Water Safety
- Rainy Days
- Friend Requests
- Cabin Assignments
- Camper Independence
- Conflict Resolution
- Open House
- Bedwetting
- Personal Growth
- Cleanliness and Hygiene
- Extended Stay
- Bullying Prevention
FAQ for Parents
1. International Students
Question: Can my camper attend Olympia as an International Student?
Answer: Yes! Olympia regularly hosts international students.
Question: Are there additional fees for international students?
Answer: Yes. These fees cover airport pick-up and additional administration around hosting International Students.
2. Multi-Week Stays
Question: Can my camper stay for multiple weeks?
Answer: Yes! At Olympia, you can book multiple-week stays, and even extend stays if your camper wants to stay longer! (Pending space availability).
3. Safety and Security:
Question: How do you ensure the safety of my child at camp?
Answer/Solution: We prioritize safety by conducting thorough background checks on staff, implementing strict supervision ratios, having trained medical personnel on-site, and maintaining a secure facility. Olympia’s staff is First Aid trained.
4. Health and Medical Care:
Question: What if my child gets sick or injured at camp?
Answer/Solution: Olympia has a Health Centre team that consists of one Camp Doctor, three Registered Nurses, and four Athletic Therapists. Our trained professional medical staff handle injuries and illnesses, with one on call at all times.
In case of a more serious issue, we have established protocols to contact parents and seek appropriate medical attention.
Question: Can my child take their prescribed medication to camp?
Answer: We have a designated medical team to administer medications according to the provided instructions and schedule as submitted on the online Health Form. Medicine must be brought to camp in its original packaging and CLEARLY labelled in a Ziploc bag. ** Please note: An online Health Form must be submitted during the registration process.
Question: What if my child is not feeling well on the day they are supposed to come to camp?
Answer/Solution: DO NOT send your child to camp if they are feeling unwell, showing symptoms, or testing positive for Covid-19. Notify the Camp and arrange for another summer 2024 camp week based upon availability or full credit for all monies paid toward summer 2025.
5. Food and Dietary Restrictions:
Question: What if my child has dietary restrictions?
Answer/Solution: We collect dietary information in advance and make sure to provide suitable meals for children with restrictions, allergies, or religious preferences. Our kitchen staff is experienced in handling diverse dietary needs.
Olympia does not allow nuts or nut products on our camp. They are not used in our kitchen or sold in the tuck shop.
We are also able to accommodate for most dietary restrictions, as long as we are informed of them in advance. For example: vegetarian, lactose intolerant, gluten allergy, egg allergies, allergies to certain fruits, etc.
6. Activities and Program Quality:
Question: What activities will my child participate in?
Answer/Solution: Our camp offers a wide range of activities including sports, arts and crafts, outdoor adventures, and more. We tailor the schedule to accommodate various interests and skill levels.
All camp activities can be viewed here: https://olympiacamps.com/camplife/
7. Communication:
Question: How can I stay in touch with my child during camp?
Answer/Solution: We encourage open communication to ensure a positive experience. Olympia also uses a program called Bunk Notes, which provides communication to your child.
Question: How do I send a camper mail?
Answer/Solution: Mail can be sent to campers during their stay to our Huntsville address. To help us ensure proper delivery, please have your camper’s name visible on the envelope. Please include a return address.
Please be advised that the postal service can be very slow and may not reach your camper within one week.
Olympia Sports Camp
2400 Limberlost Road
Huntsville Ontario
P1H 2J6
Question: How do I reach my child if I need to get in touch?
Answer/Solution: The summer office will be open and operating beginning Monday June 24th 9am-5pm 905 479 9388.
You can reach our registrar via email at: sherri@olympiasportscamp.com
If parents must reach their camper in an emergency, a message may be left with the camp office staff during office hours. These messages will be delivered to the child’s counsellor and appropriate action will be taken.
Messages left after hours will be monitored and unless it is an emergency, calls will be returned the next morning during business hours.
8. Behavior and Discipline:
Question: How do you handle behavioral issues?
Answer/Solution:
Camper Expectations
Parents and campers alike wish to have the best camping experience possible. To ensure this, we reserve the right to dismiss a camper if it is in the best interest of the camper and/or the camp. There will be no refund of any kind should a camper be dismissed for infractions or behaviour that is deemed inappropriate by Olympia Sports Camp staff and its directors.
-There are to be no boys in girls’ cabins and no girls in boys’ cabins at any time. Any infractions of this rule will result in immediate dismissal.
-Bullying will not be tolerated and will result in immediate dismissal.
-Theft will result in immediate dismissal.
-There is to be no use of waterfront facilities unless Olympia staff is on duty and present.
-Campers are to attend all sessions, unless excused by Health Centre Staff.
-Campers are expected to use appropriate language with fellow campers, staff, coaches, and referees always.
-Campers are to respect camp property. Any damage to cabins, camp property or camp facilities will result in the camper being financially responsible for the damages and the cost of repairs.
-Campers are to always remain on camp property.
-Campers are expected to return to their cabins directly following evening program. Once in their cabins, they are not to leave for the night.
9. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
Question: How do you ensure that every child feels included and valued?
Answer/Solution: We promote a culture of inclusivity and respect. Our staff is trained to create an environment where all children feel welcomed, and we address any instances of bullying or exclusion immediately.
10. Packing and Preparation:
Question: What should my child bring to camp?
Answer/Solution: We provide a comprehensive packing list to help parents prepare. It typically includes clothing, toiletries, bedding, any required medications, and specific items based on the camp’s activities. (FULL LIST CAN BE FOUND IN CAMPER GET READY PACKAGE)
11. Emergency Procedures:
Question: What happens in case of emergencies like natural disasters?
Answer/Solution: We have well-defined emergency procedures in place. Our staff is trained to handle various scenarios, including evacuations. We prioritize the safety and well-being of all campers.
12. Camper Supervision:
Question: How closely are campers supervised?
Answer/Solution: Campers are supervised at all times by our trained staff. We maintain appropriate staff-to-camper ratios to ensure safety and engagement.
Camper Staff Qualifications include:
CPR and First Aid Training
Waterfront and Ropes Course Qualifications according to OCA standards
All Staff require a police check
13. Allergies:
Question: My child has severe allergies. How do you handle this?
Answer/Solution: We take allergies seriously. Parents provide detailed allergy information during registration, and we ensure allergen-free options in meals and activities.
14. Medication Management:
Question: Can my child take their prescribed medications at camp?
Answer/Solution: We have a designated medical team to administer medications according to the provided instructions and schedule.
15. Cultural Sensitivity:
Question: Will my child’s cultural needs be respected?
Answer/Solution: We embrace diversity and respect all cultural backgrounds. We encourage campers to share their traditions and promote understanding.
16. Technology Use:
Question: Are electronics allowed at camp?
Answer/Solution: To encourage outdoor engagement, we have limited technology use. Campers can bring essential devices, but they’re stored securely during activities. Cell phones are not permitted. Any cell phones brought to camp will be stored away in a safe while the camper is at Olympia and returned upon departure.
17. Transportation:
Question: How will my child get to and from camp?
Answer/Solution: We offer transportation options. Our staff ensures safe drop-off and pick-up procedures at designated locations.
18. Payment and Refunds:
Question: What’s the refund policy if my child can’t attend?
Answer/Solution:
Cancellation Policy 2026
We understand that plans can change, so here’s a clear outline of our cancellation timelines:
Before March 1, 2026
- All payments, including the deposit, are fully refundable, except for a $100 processing fee.
- This processing fee will be waived if the family chooses to take a credit for a different week or for Summer 2027.
March 1–May 15, 2026
- A $500 cancellation fee will apply to any registration cancelled during this period.
- The remaining balance (beyond the $500) will be refunded.
- If you choose to take a credit for an available week or for Summer 2027, instead of cancelling, the $500 cancellation fee will be waived.
After May 15, 2026
- No refunds can be issued for cancellations made after this date.
- This also applies to campers who leave early during the camp season.
Cancellations Due to Medical Reasons
- Cancellations for medical reasons that occur less than 2 weeks before arrival at camp must include a doctor’s note dated before your child’s session start date.
- In this case, you will receive a full credit for all monies paid to be carried forward for 1 summer.
If a Camper is Sent Home by Medical Staff After Their Session Has Started:
You will have two options:
- A credit for the value of the unused days to be carried forward for 1 summer (pro-rated per day).
- A refund for ½ the value of the unused days.
Session and Sport/Activity Changes
- Changes Before June 1st: Session and/or sport/activity changes may be made free of charge, pending space availability.
- Changes After June 1st: A $100 change fee will apply, and all changes remain subject to space availability.
- Final Deadline: No switches will be permitted within 2 weeks of your child’s start date, and changes cannot be made upon arrival at camp.
19. Sun Protection:
Question: How do you protect campers from sun exposure?
Answer/Solution: We promote sun safety with sunscreen, shaded areas, and regular hydration breaks during outdoor activities.
20. Skill Development:
Question: Will my child learn new skills at camp?
Answer/Solution: Our camp offers skill-building activities led by experienced instructors and coaches, allowing campers to explore new interests.
21. Privacy and Photography:
Question: Are photos of my child shared online?
Answer/Solution: We prioritize camper privacy. We seek consent for sharing photos and ensure they’re used for promotional purposes only.
22. Sibling Placement:
Question: Can my children be placed in the same cabin/group?
Answer/Solution: Olympia’s camper placement in cabins is by age. We will consider sibling requests during registration to accommodate campers’ comfort.
23. Special Needs:
Question: Can my child with special needs attend camp?
Answer/Solution: We strive to be inclusive. Contact us to discuss your child’s needs and how we can provide appropriate support.
24. Homesickness Mitigation:
Question: How do you help prevent homesickness?
Answer/Solution: Our staff fosters a supportive environment, encourages friendships, and plans engaging activities to keep campers occupied.
25. Homesickness Communication:
Question: How will you inform me if my child is homesick?
Answer/Solution: Our staff will contact you discreetly if homesickness becomes a concern.
26. Lost Belongings:
Question: What if my child loses their belongings?
Answer/Solution: We ask that you label items and encourage responsibility. Our Lost and Found helps reunite campers with their belongings.
27. Camp Duration:
Question: How long is the camp session?
Answer/Solution: Camp sessions typically last for one week. We encourage campers to register for multiple weeks to further develop their skills in sports and in life. Check our website for specific session details.
28. Water Safety:
Question: How is water safety ensured during aquatic activities?
Answer/Solution: Qualified lifeguards supervise all water-related activities. Campers wear Personal Floatation Devices when required.
29. Rainy Days:
Question: What happens on rainy days?
Answer/Solution: We have indoor activities planned for inclement weather, ensuring a fun and engaging experience. Olympia’s facilities include 6 indoor basketball courts and a large recreation hall.
30. Friend Requests:
Question: Can my child be placed with their friend?
Answer/Solution: We accommodate friend requests whenever possible, provided both campers are in the same age group.
31. Cabin Assignment Requests
Question: Can I make cabin assignment requests?
Answer: We understand the importance of cabin requests and every effort is made to honor these requests; however, this is not always possible.
Any changes to cabin assignments may be requested by email (sherri@olympiasportscamp.com) up to three weeks prior to your arrival. Switches are not guaranteed and will depend on space and availability. Changes cannot be made during check-in or during your child’s stay.
32. Camper Independence:
Question: How do you encourage camper independence?
Answer/Solution: Our structured programs gradually encourage independence through age-appropriate challenges.
33. Conflict Resolution:
Question: How are conflicts among campers resolved?
Answer/Solution: Our staff mediates conflicts, teaching campers valuable communication and problem-solving skills.
34. Open House:
Question: Do you have an open house before camp starts?
Answer/Solution: Yes, you are welcome to visit the camp prior to your camp session where you can meet staff, tour facilities, and ask questions. Please check-in at the office upon arrival.
35. Bedwetting:
Question: What if my child wets the bed at camp?
Answer/Solution: Bedwetting is handled discreetly and sensitively. Our staff ensures campers’ comfort.
36. Personal Growth:
Question: How will camp help my child grow personally?
Answer/Solution: Camp fosters independence, resilience, teamwork, and leadership through diverse activities.
37. Cleanliness and Hygiene:
Question: How is hygiene maintained at camp?
Answer/Solution: Campers follow a daily hygiene routine, and facilities are regularly cleaned and sanitized by Olympia’s housekeeping staff.
Staff and campers will follow a routine of hand washing with soap and water throughout the day. For example: Washing hands before we arrive to session, after using the washroom, before and after eating, after playing outdoors, after using a tissue, and any time hands are visibly soiled.
Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout camp sites.
38. Extended Stay:
Question: Can my child extend their stay if they’re having a great time?
Answer/Solution: Depending on availability, you can inquire about extending your child’s stay.
39. Bullying Prevention:
Question: How do you prevent bullying?
Answer/Solution: We have strict anti-bullying policies and conduct workshops promoting kindness and respect.