Camp IHC - Parent Handbook

2023 HANDBOOK

Celebrating 83 Years

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY, AS EVERY YEAR WE UPDATE AND MAKE CHANGES

“My parents sent me to Camp IHC with roots to keep me grounded, and wings to help me fly.”

Contents

Page 4-7

WELCOME TO CAMP IHC

CAMPER FORMS & IMPORTANT DATES

Page 8-13

“WHO YOU GONNA CALL?”

Page 14-17

CAMP RULES

Page 18-23

HEALTH CARE

Page 24-25

SPENDING MONEY, TUTORING & PRIVATE LESSONS

Page 26-29

PHONE CALLS, BIRTHDAYS, MAIL, E-MAIL & PACKAGES

Page 30-33

PACKING SUGGESTIONS

BAGGAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Page 34-35

DEPARTURE

Page 36-39

VISITING DAY

LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS

Welcome to camp IHC

Dear IHC Parents,

This handbook is intended to serve as a guide for your summer preparations. If you follow the information provided, you will find that preparing for camp can be quite simple. Please feel free to call us for assistance at anytime.

Please note: This handbook does not include any Covid-19 related information. A separate handbook outlining our action plan and protocols will be available in the coming months.

If you are a returning family, please note the changes we have made for the upcoming summer.

We are looking forward to another exciting and fun-filled summer and are delighted that your family will be a part of this camping season, the 83rd at Camp IHC!

Best Regards,

Joel & Lauren

“Children need models rather than critics”

— JOSEPH JOUBERT

Our mission at Camp IHC is committed to human development.

Camper forms & Important dates

Camper Forms

All camper forms are managed or accessed online on our Parent Dashboard. (This includes medical forms, camper information forms, baggage forms, etc.) You can access the Parent Dashboard via our website under the ‘current families’ tab.

All forms should be submitted via the Parent Dashboard.

Should you have questions or need some help accessing or uploading documents to the Parent Dashboard, just give us a call at the Office. Please remember - No hard copy forms of any kind should be mailed to camp or the office.

As a reminder, it is very important that we receive all forms, fully executed, in order for us to best prepare for the arrival of your child(ren) this summer.

IMPORTANT DATES

January

March/April

Dashboard active & The Camp Spot catalog mailed Purchase camp clothing and make reservations for visiting day.

Feb 15

April 1

Camper Information Forms Due

Make appointments now for medical and dental check-ups.

May 20

June 24

Medical Forms & Keystone Meds Due Camp begins.

July 15

Visiting Day (Pending)

August 11

Camp ends

Who you gonna call?

There may be times over the course of the summer when you feel the need to connect with one of the members of our leadership team - maybe you are concerned after receiving a very homesick letter from your child and just feel you need to touch base to gain some reassurance. Please let us begin by saying that this is VERY NORMAL. Most parents experience some form of anxiety at some point over the summer – especially if you are a first time parent. Your communication with IHC during these times is encouraged. We want you to feel confident about the quality of your child’s experience – and we actually want YOU TO HAVE A GREAT

SUMMER!!!!

Please consider the following:

The more time our Leadership Team spends on the phone or emailing parents – the less time they spend actually engaging with the campers and staff. A natural consequence of having access to email and instant messaging is that we readily (and often unnecessarily) utilize it too frequently. It has become so easy to drop a one-line email saying, for example, “can you check in on Lauren today, she looked sad in a picture”. As our returning families know, we pride ourselves for our prompt and detailed responses. Timely communication is the IHC Standard, and we constantly strive to go above and beyond for our families. Because we want to respond appropriately to you, and within this timely manner, we often spend too much time answering questions that are somewhat unnecessary. If the picture we referenced above was preceeded or followed by two consecutive ‘sad’ letters, then by all means call us -we may have something to address. However, experience tells us that pictures are often not an accurate representation of a ‘problem’ at camp. We encourage you to keep an eye out for pictures of Oakley, Mac, Xander & Austen over the summer – they look miserable in half of them. We can assure you they are happy ☺.

Also keep in mind that for many of you, your child is not the first generation of camper in your family. Many of you send your children to camp because you yourself had an amazing experience. Countless authors have commented on the fact that one of the reasons the camp experience was so powerful was because parents were not there (looking over your shoulder, or staring into a screen of pictures posted daily)! We firmly believe that the reason you and your child chose IHC is because you trust us. You trust us with the safety and well-being of your child. There may be a time that we do not respond to things in exactly the same way as you would at home (e.g. your son just might get away with wearing the same t-shirt at two evening activities in a row because he has sneakily got it past his counselor). But we do promise to respond to them in a way that keeps your child safe and happy. Of course if you see that same shirt on day 4 – call us! ��

We write this section of our handbook to serve merely as a guideline for you. We are not attempting to go back on our commitment to open communication. We still firmly believe that open communication is key. We write this with the goal creating a successful ‘partnership’ with you. All of our actions affect the experience that our children have at sleep away camp. During the summer, before reaching for your phone or email, just ask yourself “is this question really necessary?”

“we want you to have a great summer!”

Who you gonna call?

Owner/Directors: It has always been important to us at IHC that the Directors are available to parents in times of concern. Please never hesitate to contact Lauren and Joel at any time over the summer, in relation to any question or concern. It is immensely important to us that we are very connected to camp across all the age groups. We will be at flagpole, daytime activities, evening activities, meal times and bunk time. This enables us to be ingrained in the ‘goings on’ within our camp, and we believe that this is crucial in helping us deliver the best summer camp experience for campers and staff. Because we want to remain visible Camp Directors, as opposed to ‘office bound’ Camp Directors, we have the following systems in place to support us with parent communication should you feel the need to connect with camp over the summer but feel it does not warrant a conversation with the Directors.

Parent Liaison: The Parent Liaison role continues to be a valuable inclusion to our parent support network. We have the pleasure of Nikki Sacks returning, she will be at camp this summer attending to the call. She is reachable at

ParentLiaison@campihc.com

When to call the Parent Liaison: The Parent Liaison will be available via phone and email. This is the person who will check up on the missing brush, flashlight, batteries etc. She will ‘investigate’ why you have not received any letters despite it being day 8. She will also get back to you once the ‘investigating’ is over to provide you with piece of mind that the ‘case is closed’. One really valuable asset of our Parent Liaison is that she is a camper parent, having had (and continues to have) both a son and daughter at IHC for many years. She fully relates to that experience of ‘nervously letting go’ for the summer. There may be times that you just have to talk to someone (because you are nervous, etc.). Never hesitate to contact our Parent Liaison if you just need to chat. She will refer you to a Head Counselor or even to Lauren or Joel if she feels that a conversation at that level would be more beneficial.

Directors of Camps (Lower Lake Boys, Lower Lake Girls, Upper Lake Boys, Upper Lake Girls, Girls Side, Hill Camp, The Village) and Head Counselors: Your camper will have at least one Camp Director and one HC over the summer. In January the Director will email you to introduce themself. Every director at IHC works full-time for camp and therefore is available all year round to answer any questions as they arise. This Director will introduce you to the Head counselor later in the Spring. Head Counselors at IHC are the adults who oversee a particular age group. They act as an extension of the Directors of each Camp, and just like the Directors they do not live in a bunk.

When to call the Directors’ of Camps or Head Counselor: When to call the Directors or Head Counselor during the summer: Both are available via phone and email. You can communicate with the Director or HC if you receive sad letters, or have a real concern about the bunk dynamics in your child’s group. You can also reach out to them if you want to discuss anything in relation to the staff that work with your camper. Directors and Head Counselors serve as ‘the front line’ and they are VERY connected to what is happening in your child’s life at camp. They are masters at managing homesickness, resolving bunk conflict and ensuring that our staff feel supported enough to succeed. The HC can also help you resolve a more trivial situation such as lost hairbrushes/flashlight. The HCs will keep the camp director informed of all camper and staff related information, and will discuss all parent communication that they have had on a daily basis. The Directors will become involved if an issue remains unresolved at the HC level.

DISCOVER CORE STRENGTHS AND PASSIONS THAT WILL GUIDE YOUR CHILD THROUGHOUT LIFE

Who you gonna call?

Food Allergies/Special Dietary Requirements: The handling and overseeing of food allergies at IHC is taken very seriously. Several years ago we made the decision to create an allergy director position. This means that we have a dedicated person overseeing all food allergies and dietary requirements at camp. During the summer (or indeed prior to the summer) if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s food while at IHC, please call camp.

Summer Website: We understand that seeing your camper in pictures and videos over the summer is very important to this generation of parents. Managing the summer website is a massive task, and one that requires a lot of attention to detail. Every year we put together a team to ensure that the quality of our postings satisfy your natural desire to see your camper, as well as reflecting the quality of IHC. If you have any questions or comments about the summer website postings while your child is at camp please call the office at (914) 3452155 or email Liam@campihc.com

We hope that you have found this section of the Parent handbook helpful. Please do not hesitate to contact the IHC office if you have any additional questions.

Camp rules

1. Electronics: IHC has a ‘No Electronics Policy’

Any electronic equipment that has the ability to connect to the Internet, or the capability of showing movies or video games, is NOT permitted at IHC. The only exceptions to this policy are the iPod Shuffle and the iPod Nano (with all the movie files removed).

No cell phones are permitted at camp - even those only used for music purposes. All campers, including IHC West campers, may not have a cell phone at any point during the summer (both on and off camp) *(see note below for Hill Camp parents and IHC West/CIT parents).

Electrical power is limited at camp. We cannot absorb the strain caused by items which require electricity. Therefore, please leave all such equipment at home. This includes tablet reading devices - even if they do not connect to the internet e.g. kindle, etc.

In addition, electric fans, curling irons or straightening irons are not permitted in camp.

*Hill Camp parents and IHC West/CIT parents should pay particular attention to the section of the Hill, IHC West & CIT Agreements pertaining to electronics. The penalty for concealing a phone or wifi media device (even if only used for music purposes) will be up to a 5 day suspension from camp at the discretion of the Directors.

Examples of items permitted and not permitted:

YES

• Campfire MP3 Player

• iPod Nano/Shuffle with music only

• Fitbits: that do not connect to wifi/ cellular - used for tracking steps

• Alternative mp3 players that do not connect to the Internet, with music files only

• Disposable Camera

NO

• Any Cell Phone

• Fitbits/Smartwatches

• iPod Touch

• Tablet Devices

• DVD Players & PSP’s

• Laptop computers

• Curling Iron/Straightener

• Electric Fan

Please note: Camp will not take responsibility for replacing any approved electronic devices brought to camp, which may be damaged or lost.

A place that removes the distraction of technology

and development

a place of learning

Camp rules

2. Food: Please note that we do everything in our power to maintain a nut free campus, meaning we do not permit any nut products on campus or in camp vehicles. In addition, campers are not allowed any food, candy or gum at camp. Foodstuffs tend to attract small animals to the cabin, and gum is very difficult to remove from the surface of camp’s athletic facilities, equipment and furniture. Camp supplies iced tea, other beverage mixes and a full array of fat-free salad dressing so campers may not bring their own. DO NOT SEND BOTTLED WATER TO CAMP. OUR WATER COMES FROM NATURAL, SPRING FED WELLS.

3. Packages: Camp IHC is a “No Package Camp.” Packages arriving at camp unannounced will be returned to sender. If you are concerned that your child requires a necessary item (e.g. sunscreen/ bugspray/etc) please call the Parent Liaison for a package number. Only packages with a package number will be opened by our office staff and subsequently delivered to your camper.

4. Pocket Money and Valuables: We cannot assume responsibility for any money or valuables kept by a camper in his or her cabin. The camp office provides safekeeping for such items.

5. Gratuities: There is NO TIPPING at Camp IHC. Our staff are aware of this rule and know that any staff member accepting “tips” will be dismissed.

6. Drug/Tobacco/Alcohol Policy

Smoking, consumption or possession of any tobacco or alcohol products or any illegal or controlled substance WILL NOT BE TOLERATED at any time, by campers or staff members. We are a non-smoking, non-alcoholic and drug-free environment.

Campers or staff members violating this policy are subject to immediate dismissal from Camp IHC. There will be no tuition reimbursement made should a camper be dismissed from camp for violating this policy. NOTE: Staff will be subject to random drug testing.

We respectfully ask that you cooperate with us in relation to all of our camp policies. The policies are in place to help make the IHC experience as wonderful as possible for your child. If you have any questions pertaining to any of our policies please do not hesitate to contact us.

Camp IHC’s Health & Wellness

Updates specific to COVID-19 will be communicated closer to the start of the summer in a separate handbook.

Understandably, one of the most anxiety provoking times for a parent is when their camper requires a visit to the Health and Wellness Center (HAWC). The following information will outline how the HAWC functions at Camp IHC, and what you can expect from us should your child need additional health care over the course of the summer.

Our Medical Team - The HAWC staff, consisting of a team comprised of at least one onsite Doctor, a team of 8 Nurses, and 2 HAWC Assistants, are available 24/7 to take care of all routine and emergent health care needs while at camp.

When We Will Call You

While minor illness and first aid issues are taken care of as needed, parents can expect a phone call for the following conditions only:

1. Prescription Medication:

Any time our Camp Doctor prescribes your child with medication, we will call you. Please note, this call will often occur AFTER a first dose has been given. Please be assured that from your child’s health records we know what medications can and cannot be given.

2. SEVERE Allergic Reaction

3. Facial Laceration

4. Fever/Overnight Stay:

A fever measuring over 100 degrees will require an overnight stay in the health center

Please Note: the phone call informing parents of a HAWC overnight, might occur prior to the overnight, if your child is admitted before 7pm, OR it will wait until the next morning. After you’ve received the initial phone call, please wait until after 11am on subsequent days to call to inquire about your child’s condition. This time frame ensures that your camper will have seen the Camp Doctor, and will allow us to provide you with the most complete information. While we appreciate that you will be anxious to speak to your camper, calling prior to this time will only prolong the entire process.

5. Application of Ace Wrap

6. Treatment Beyond Health Center’s Capabilities:

X-Ray - In the event that a camper is taken for an x-ray to an outside facility, a staff member will accompany your camper, and you’ll receive a phone-call AFTER the results are final. Most of our x-rays are done to RULE OUT the possibility of a fracture.

True Emergency - In any other case where a true emergency occurs that requires medical intervention outside of camp, Head Staff will be involved both in accompanying your child to that facility and in communicating directly with parents. Every effort will be taken to inform and collaborate with parents as we view this as an integral part of our responsibility in caring for your child.

we

understand the importance of professional health staff and equipment.

Health care

Medical Forms – Due May 20th

Our medical staff and the Directors review each camper’s medical history carefully. This allows us to be ready to address the health needs of your child during the summer. Please keep in mind that the more we know about the health habits and history of your child the better we can take care of them. This includes any and all information pertaining to your child’s psychological development (including any counseling), which is enormously helpful as we work to maximize your child’s experience at Camp IHC. Please be assured that all information pertaining to any aspect of health is treated in total confidence.

CampInTouch Parent Portal:

This year all forms will be accessed through the CampInTouch Parent portal. By moving all the forms to one database we hope to make the process easier for parents. We will still maintain safe and efficient medical records for your camper(s.) The forms that we collect will be used to review health history, allergies, medications, etc. They are pertinent in the event of illness or medical emergency.

You will be able to complete all forms through the Parent Dashboard. As in the past, you will be able to print forms directly from the system and you will be able to upload them directly to your account. Any issues with this process should be directed to Megan@campihc.com or call the office (914) 345-2155 and ask to speak with Megan.

Campers with Food Allergies or Asthma:

We will continue to require a more in-depth form that will outline a treatment plan for your child. These forms can be downloaded from the Parent Dashboard and will need to be completed by your child’s physician. These forms are from Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE, www.foodallergy.org) and from the American Lung Association (www.lung.org).

Camper medications – Enroll with Keystone before May 20th

The handling of medication through Keystone is mandatory, and in alignment with PA dispensing Laws.

Medication Coming to Camp

All Prescription, Daily OTCs, Inhalors

Keystone

EpiPen, Growth Hormone, Last Minute Prescription, Rescue Inhaler

On the Bus (Must Call Camp for Clearance)

As Needed OTC

Camp Stocks (Call office for more info)

Health care

Comments from Lauren about meds:

I wanted to take a moment to share with you some observations I have made over the past few years in relation to camper medications coming to camp.

Camp IHC medical staff dispenses over 300 medications on a daily basis. Over two thirds of our campers require medication at some point over the summer. Dispensing this amount of medication is a massive task, which our nursing staff carries out diligently and to the highest safety standards.

In order to keep the dispensing of medications safe and efficient (as well as keeping them in alignment with Pennsylvania dispensing regulations) it is imperative that all medications come to camp through Keystone (other than those explicitly exempt).

Although I understand that this requires an additional fee, it is, nonetheless, relatively small in contrast to the negative consequences a dispensing error can result in. Your child’s safety, health, and well-being is at the center of everything we do at IHC.

Nothing is more essential then the safe packaging, handling and dispensing of medication. Please do not send unannounced medications to camp, and help us keep the IHC HAWC safe and efficient.

If you would like to know if we stock an OTC medication that your child may need over the summer please call the office and we will be happy to help. The likelihood is we have it!

I truly appreciate your cooperation.

1. Keystone: We require that all medication your child requires, whether prescription or non-prescription, be pre-packaged and shipped to Camp by Keystone pharmacy, before your child arrives at camp. This includes medications that are taken daily, at regular intervals, or on an as needed basis. Thus, NO medication, other than those cleared by the camp directors* should be sent to camp via any other method, including on the bus with your child. Please refer to the Keystone e-mail blast we will send to you in March or visit your parent dashboard for details on enrolling. You can also go directly to https://www.kppmeds.com/ camps/ihc/ to enroll.

*The only exceptions to the above are: Medication that needs refrigeration, epi-pens, a current course of antibiotics, or other medication your child is prescribed in the days just prior to camp. You must call our office ahead of time to inform us that any of

these medications are coming with your child - see departure section for more details relating to both refrigerated medication and current courses of medication. ANY MEDICATION (NOT PRE-APPROVED BY THE DIRECTORS) BROUGHT TO CAMP BY CAMPERS ON CAMP OPENING DAY WILL BE DISCARDED – THIS IS A MATTER OF SAFETY AND ONE WHICH MUST BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY.

2. Inhalers: Campers using inhalers should have at least two sent to camp. At least one of these should be sent via Keystone. Only if your child needs access to an inhaler on the bus to camp should you send the inhaler on your child’s person. Please call camp ahead of time so that we can expect and account for this medication on arrival day.

3. Over-the-counter (OTC): Our HAWC stocks typical ‘over-the-counter’ medications such as Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, Benadryl, cough medicine, Pepto-Bismol, Sudafed etc. Therefore, there is no need to enroll with Keystone for such over the counter items taken on an “as needed” basis. Please, do not send these items with your child on the bus. If you are concerned that we may not stock a version of a medication that you and your child prefer, please call our office for advice.

4. Daily OTC: If your child takes an OTC medication on a daily basis, you must send this medication through Keystone.

Vitamins: Register the vitamin as a daily “over the counter” medication through Keystone and they will be dispensed by the nurses daily.

We will not accept any products that contain nuts in any form. Ingredients should be checked for all nuts.

5.

We love. we care. we heal.

Health care

Additional Notes/Info:

• Head Lice: Due to the prevalence of head lice in schools now, we ask that you check your child’s head immediately before their departure for Camp. Please notify us if your child has had lice at any point during this school year or if he/she has recently been exposed to lice so that we may check and monitor him/her discreetly. We do check all campers upon their arrival at Camp, as well as after visiting day and prior to departure day. These checks are performed by licensed professionals (www.licetreatmentcenter.com). If your child arrives at camp with head lice, you will be contacted and given the choice of having your child treated at camp or picking your child up for treatment at home. If your child is treated at camp, all expenses associated with treatment will be charged to you.

• Ticks: Lyme disease, which can be carried by deer ticks, though a problem in the New York Metropolitan Area, is much less prevalent in the Wayne County and surrounding areas. To be safe, however, we educate our staff and campers on the importance of regular tick checks. If your child experiences a confirmed tick bite, our HAWC Staff will inform you. A great resource for current information is the following website: http://www.cdc.gov/ticks/

What does Camp IHC do for Tick Prevention?-

https://www.campihc.com/tick-prevention-ihc

• Immunizations: Pennsylvania law makes mandatory the listing by physicians of immunization dates for diphtheria, measles, mumps, polio and rubella. No camper, American or International, is exempt from this requirement. Antitetanus injections must be given when needed. The menegitis immunization is not mandatory in the state of PA; however, we encourage you to inform your Pediatrician that your child is attending sleepaway camp this summer, as many Pediatricians recommend this immunization for full season campers.

• Dental and Orthodontic: This work must be completed before camp. If your child experiences a problem with their braces during the summer we will notify you. Most parents choose to have minor repair work done at a local camp orthodonist. More complicated case should be treated at home.

• If your child wears glasses, please send a second pair.

• Please note any special dietary instructions in the Health History on the Parent Dashboard under health forms.

Questions regarding Health Care, Dietary or Health Forms can be directed to Megan@campihc.com

Spending money, Tutoring & Private Lessons

Spending Money:

Most parents choose to send their child with additional spending money. This money may be used as pocket money for the purchase of refreshments, souvenirs, gifts, etc. on trips out of camp. If you wish to provide your child with additional money, please fill out the spending money form on the Parent Dashboard by June 1st. Do not send your child to camp with cash. WE CAN NOT BE RESPONSIBLE IF YOU SEND YOUR CHILD TO CAMP WITH CASH.

Our recommended MAXIMUM amounts are:

Rookies -$50

Explorers -$50

Rangers - $50

Trailblazers - $60

Graduates - $60

Seniors - $250

Varsity - $250

The following divisions are responsible for mangaging their funds. We suggest a debit card that you can load the money onto, should they need more. Questions regarding spending money can be directed to Bart@campihc.com

Tutoring/Therapy Sessions:

Decisions about off camp trips have not yet been made for Summer 2023. In the event that we do run day trips, the section to the left will become relevant.

Given the increase in the number of campers who require such services, all sessions are required to be virtual with a home tutor or therapist with each session taking place on set days and times pre-established by IHC. We will email in March the days and times each week that your camper will be available to make these calls so that you can coordinate with the tutor/therapist directly.

Personalized Lessons and Instructions:

If you are looking for your camper to continue his/her skills development in any program area or sport, we offer personalized instruction at an age and skills appropriate level. Please keep an eye out for our emails with the signup links.

The biggest gift we can give to our children is our time

as soon as you step in, you’re a part of the IHC Family.

Phone calls & Fax

Phone Calls:

Our activity program, including out-of-camp trips, is a busy one. This puts limitations on phone calls to and from campers. Therefore, communication between you and your child will be mainly through your mid-season visit on Visiting Day and letters home. That being said, you will also have the opportunity to have two (2) calls with your campers during the summer.

For summer 2023 and beyond camper phone calls will be on pre-assigned days, one prior to visiting day and one after visiting day. These dates will be communicated to you in March so that you can plan your calendar accordingly.

Please note: If you feel a 3rd phone call is necessary, you will schedule this call directly with the Director DURING the summer.

IHC West Campers - you may schedule one phone call prior to the July 5th departure. Please refer to the TW handbook regarding phone calls while your camper is out west.

we will feel free to call you. Your Directors, Head Counselors and the Parent Liason are available to discuss any situation or concern with you throughout the summer. Put this number in your contacts.

(914)

345-2155

Fax:

Fax service is available into and out of our camp office 24 hours a day during the camp season (not for camper communication), using the following number:

(914) 345-2479

CIT Campers

- you DO NOT need to

schedule phone calls for your CIT camper. He/She will call you during set times assigned by the CIT director.

Note: Where there is a divorce, each parent is entitled to two phone calls.

Needless to say, if we feel that a phone call between you and your child will help to assuage any in-camp problem,

Mail, e-mail, packages & Birthdays

Mail to: Camp IHC

Camper’s Name (Bunk)

3287 Hancock Hwy

Equinunk, PA 18417

Campers write home three times each week. Please provide an adequate supply of postage and stationery, as well as pre-addressed envelopes for younger campers.

To facilitate distribution of mail, please write your child’s cabin number or name on the outside of the envelope (on the afternoon of camper arrival day, you will be notified via e-mail as to your child’s cabin assignment). Children love to receive letters from you. Please write to them often.

Remember some letters you receive will be filled with love and joy, others quite the opposite. Children’s letters are generally subject to oversimplification as well as exaggeration. Please don’t panic when trying to interpret the meaning behind a child’s letter. If you are concerned...call us. You have placed a great trust in our ability to work with your children. We value this trust and will absolutely stop at nothing to ensure that your child’s experience this summer is a positive one.

Tip from Joel: Why not write a letter ahead of time and place it in the camp trunk? The counselor will unpack it and place it on your child’s bed. What’s better than receiving a motivational note from home on the first day!

E-Mail:

You will have the ability to e-mail your child. We will send you specific instructions regarding registration procedures in the Spring. Please note that campers will not be able to send e-mail. E-mails must be at least 25 words or they will be rejected by our system. If you are e-mailing your child we ask that you reduce the number of “snail mail” letters.

Important Policy

Camp IHC is a no package camp. PLEASE do not send packages to camp including FEDEX or PRIORITY MAIL Boxes. If there is a special need, please contact our Parent Liaison and you will be given a package number.

PACKAGES WILL NOT BE PERMITTED ON CAMP WITHOUT A PACKAGE NUMBER.

Please do not send packages if you have family visiting or touring camp. It is our wish to eliminate the competition caused by possessions like gadgets and toys. Camp is the gift you are giving to your child. Please do not send a gift to ‘the gift’.

The Directors reserve the right to check all incoming packages.

What

happens

on a Camp Birthday?

(Please note: This will look different for those on IHC West)

Your camper will be celebrated all day, with shout outs beginning at both morning line up and flagpole. We will also celebrate with our famous personalized Uncle Butchie birthday cake and will sing the IHC birthday song many times throughout the day. Lake campers (3rd through 6th grade) will raise the flag at morning flagpole and our older campers will do the same at morning lawgs. Campers with summer birthdays also get to pick out a movie that the whole bunk will get to watch in their bunk at bedtime, all while enjoying some of our delicious IHC Butchie Cookies!

Sending a Birthday Package

Parents are welcome to send up a small gift for your child’s birthday. We ask that you send the package in the trunk or bring it on visiting day, and please email your camper’s division Camp Director to let them know it is coming. Please do not send birthday packages via the mail.

If your child is on Lake Camp (3rd - 7th grade), on unpacking day, which is prior to your camper’s arrival, we will collect the gift to keep in the office for safe keeping. We will then give it to your camper on their birthday. Given that Hill campers, (8th and 9th grade) unpack for themselves, we suggest letting your camper know that there will be a special surprise in their trunk and that they should not open it! Please tell your camper to give the package to their division camp director or head counselor for safe keeping until their birthday.

Some gift ideas include: a teddy bear, small games, books, playing cards, camp bracelet. Please do not send any large gifts (including pillows) and food, and please do not send bunk gifts or bunk party favors as these will not be distributed.

Alternative Gift Option

Another gift option that many parents have used in years past is sending a bunch of helium balloons and a card. This option is very popular as campers of all ages love the balloons (they keep them in their bunk for weeks!) and it also saves the hassle of pre-planning and packing a small gift. If this is your preferred gift option, you can order via the following link: Birthday Balloon Order

Birthday Phone Call

All campers with summer birthdays will have a short birthday phone call (this will not count as one of the two scheduled calls). This 5-minute birthday call will take place between 9am and 9.30am, so please make sure you are available.

If your camper has an off camp trip or intercamp game that interferes with this timing, we will reach out to you in advance to arrange an alternative.

If your camper is a first year camper, and their birthday falls on one of the first days of camp, we understand that this phone call may not be beneficial in your child’s successful transition into camp life. We will ultimately follow your lead on whether or not you want this call to happen, however we are happy to advise you, based on what we are seeing from you camper at that time. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your campers Division Director to discuss further.

like a home away from home.

Packing suggestions

Our packing list, which is available in The Camp Spot catalog, allows for both an adequate type and supply of clothing. Preoccupation with clothing and make-up is not a part of Camp IHC. As such, no dressy clothes are needed. We remind you that lack of facilities for ironing dictates use of wash and wear clothing only. Please be sure to wash all new clothing before packing. To help you with your packing, please note the following:

1. Camp IHC provides all towels for your camper. Please do not send any towels to camp.

2. Although IHC hosts a ‘Bash’ at the end of camp, no dressy clothes, such as short dresses, high shoes, etc. are permitted. Smart shorts and a nice top is perfectly appropriate. You MAY NOT mail this outfit during the summer. Any questions please contact Lauren directly.

3. Please use a MAXIMUM of two large sports equipment/cargo bags or soft trunks (New Campers should use the trunks they received from IHC this winter). These are available in The Camp Spot catalog, and they offer a lifetime guarantee on this product. For storage, durability and ease of handling they are superior to the standard camp trunk. PLEASE DO NOT USE ANY BAG LARGER THAN THE 36 inches long x 18 inches wide x 20 inches high as they are difficult to handle and store. Bags any larger than this result in too much stuff being sent to camp.

4. Fishing gear should be packed into the IHC Soft Trunks. For safety reasons, campers may not bring this gear on the bus. CAMPERS MAY NOT BRING KNIVES OF ANY KIND TO CAMP.

5. Parents are advised to have baggage and personal belongings insured against fire, loss or theft and check that it is covered under a Family Floater Policy. Valuable jewelry, expensive watches, etc., are not needed or permitted in camp. We

cannot be responsible for any damage to or loss of such items.

6. Sleeping bags that have been dry cleaned should be thoroughly aired before packing.

Crazy Creeks - The crazy creek chair in the catalog is the one you should purchase. It’s a great camp chair and it works. The large oversized chairs are not permitted.

Egg Crates- Egg Crates and Mattress pads are not allowed at camp. Please do NOT send them as they will not be unpacked from the trunks.

Pillows- Please only send one sleeping pillow. In addition you may send one novelty pillow (this can be a husband pillow or a general throw pillow). If you pack more than this only the regular pillow and one of the additional pillow’s will be unpacked, the rest will remain in the trunk until departure day.

7. PLEASE SEND ONLY THE ITEMS AND QUANTITIES LISTED ON OUR PACKING LIST. IF YOU SEND MORE THAN WE STIPULATE, THE EXCESS ITEMS WILL BE SENT HOME OR STORED BY US AND RETURNED ON VISITING DAY.

Important: Please label everything with your child’s name, including tennis rackets (and covers), sleeping bags, etc.

To reduce the possibility of bed bugs coming into camp, all bedding should be placed in a dryer, at the highest setting, for one hour, prior to being packed.

Baggage instructions

To allow the beginning of camp to go as smoothly as possible, all campers must pre-ship their baggage to camp.

The following outline details instructions for shipping baggage to Camp IHC:

This summer Camp Trucking will be providing camp trunk delivery service to and from Camp IHC. Camp Trucking has been serving camps in the eastern part of the country for over 45 years. They now offer both door-to-door shipping and a centralized baggage service.

Camp Trucking’s 2023 website will be open for registration on January 10th. They have multiple methods by which their office can be reached for inquiries (calling, texting, customer portal) and they have also created a dedicated extension for IHC families. Extension 442 (“IHC”) can be entered when calling their company number to get priority service.

Round-trip and one-way prices for luggage shipping are based on up to 2 pieces of luggage per camper. To receive the best pricing (early-bird pricing) for Round-Trip or One-Way Service, please register online at www.camptrucking.com by May 5th. Their online enrollment ends May 26th, however you may call them after this date at 970-949-0690.

Estimated important dates and answers to common questions can be found on Camp Trucking’s Updated FAQ section at: www.camptrucking.com/faqs.php.

Important Note: We suggest that all baggage sent via Camp Trucking be locked. Please make sure we receive your child’s baggage lock combinations by June 18th. Please email the combination to office@ campihc.com or to your child’s Division Director.

Families who live outside of the Camp Trucking service area:

For those not serviced by Camp Trucking, we require that your child’s trucks be shipped via UPS, FedEx, etc. We ask that your child’s trucks arrive at Camp no later than June 18th. Return labels can be sent with the trunks or emailed directly to colleen@campihc.com.

Like Camp Trucking please lock all luggage and ensure we receive your child’s lock combination by emailing them to office@campihc.com or your child’s Division Director.

Bus Carry-On Luggage:

Campers may bring ONE carry-on item on the bus. An example of a carry-on is a small day pack. Do not send any luggage or trunks with the bus or charges will apply.

“Your bunk of boys or girls are your brothers and sisters, and your counselors, well—they’re your parents.”

Directions to Pick up Locations

NYC - Manhattan: 9:00AM Departure

5th Avenue - between 85th and 86th Streets.

Livingston, NJ (NJS): 10:00AM Departure

At Livingston Mall, Walnut Street & South Orange Ave, Livingston, New Jersey. The buses will be in the Park & Ride Lot closest to the Walnut St. entrance.

Tarrytown, NY - 10:30AM Departure

Sheraton/Stop&Shop parking area in Tarrytown, NY located at 610 White Plains Road.

Northern New Jersey: 10:30AM Departure

Pascack Hills High School - 225 W. Grand Ave. Montvale, NJ 07645, on the corner of Spring Valley Rd and W. Grand Ave.

Penn Valley, Pennsylvania: 9:30 AM Departure

Welsh Valley MIddle School, Penn Valley in St. Justin church parking lot at WVMS. The entrance is on Hagysford Road.

Long Island, NY: 9:00AM Departure

Cradle of Aviation Museum, Charles Lindbergh Blvd, Garden City, NY 11530 (Parking lot West 4A)

Baltimore, Maryland: 7:30am Departure

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel: Baltimore NorthPikesville.

Don’t see what you are looking for - Please reach out to our office at (914) 345-2155 and we’ll find an answer for you.

Procedures at Departure Point

1. In the interest of having as expeditious a trip as possible and to minimize possible motion sickness problems, please do not send excessive foods and sweets on the bus. Many children have become sick en route from overeating candy and baked goods. Please work with us on this as it is unpleasant and embarrassing to the child who falls ill. DO NOT SEND ANY ITEMS THAT CONTAIN PEANUTS OR TREE NUTS. Bear in mind that all unconsumed food is not permitted to be taken to your child’s cabin upon arrival. Campers will have a snack as soon as they arrive in camp.

2. Promptness is essential. Please arrive no less than 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time.

3.

At each location, there will be a Senior Staff member in charge of travel. Register your child and have him/her go directly to the assigned bus with their one small carry-on/backpack.

4. Medication requiring refrigeration should be properly packed, labeled with the camper’s name and special instructions, and should be given to the Area & Bus leader(s). This includes a separate packet of medication that a camper must take that day. Please call our office to confirm that this medication will be coming on the bus.

5. Should you need to send up any last minute medication on the bus with your child, please make sure that it is labeled with the camper’s name.You must call the office ahead of departure to clear this medication for transportation on the bus.

6.

Bus counselors WILL NOT take camper spending money. See procedure for sending extra spending money in the spending money section.

7.

Parents and family are not allowed on the buses at anytime. This helps us maintain an efficient and happy departure.

8. Please say a quick “goodbye” and leave the area. It will be a great help to the counselors and campers.

9. Special Note: If, for any unforeseen reason, you should miss the camp bus, please call camp immediately, (914) 345-2155, for further instructions.

Your chance to get involved in all camp activities with your kid(s).

Visiting day

Visiting Day at Camp IHC is an exciting and fun day. We not only provide lunch for all guests but encourage participation by parents and siblings in all camp activities including the use of our waterfront and swimming pool. It is for this reason that we must limit our visiting to parents and siblings. We will send out an RSVP as well leading up to visiting day to confirm who in the family is joining us.

No Pets are permitted on camp during visiting day.

Please help us by regulating the amount of foodstuffs you bring on visiting day. All food brought for campers, not consumed on visiting day, will be collected and donated to a local charity or discarded. We also ask that you not bring any items containing peanuts or tree nuts due to allergies in camp. Also, do not bring bunk gifts or party favors on Visiting Day. These items are not permitted.

Campers are not permitted to leave the camp grounds during the day unless they are a CIT. Parents of CIT campers will receive a email prior to Visiting Day regarding more information.

NOTE: Should you wish to discuss your child’s progress with us and sufficient time is not available during visiting day, please come to the office and arrange an appointment for Saturday evening or Sunday morning of the visiting weekend.

DIRECTIONS TO Camp IHC

Take the NYS Thruway North to Exit 16 (Harriman - Rt. 17 West.) Stay on Rt. 17 (for about 45-60 minutes) to Exit 104, Monticello. Take Rt. 17B West to Callicoon. When in Callicoon go under the trestle and make an immediate right turn. Proceed along the “Old Main Street” to the bank. Make a left at the bank going over the bridge (Delaware River.) Continue for 9 miles at which point the road will end at Rt. 191. Make a right onto Rt. 191. Camp IHC is two miles ahead on the left. NOTE: If you are using a navigation system (GPS), use the following address: 3287 Hancock Highway, Equinunk, PA, 18417.

Visiting day

LOCAL ACCOMMODATIONS

Visiting Day is during the height of the resort season. We strongly urge you to make your travel and lodging arrangements now. Below you will find a partial list of accommodations in our area. For additional listings, please contact the Pocono Mountain Vacation Bureau, (570) 421-5791.

a safe place for campers to stretch their wings so they can experience the best that life has to offer