Parent Handbook
We understand that sending your child to a camp is a big decision. For over 80 years, we've been entrusted by parents to take care of their kids and foster their spiritual growth in an atmosphere of fun, safety, acceptance and care. This handbook is intended to help parents learn about and become comfortable with Forest Cliff Camp. We've compiled tons of camp procedure information into one convenient booklet. We've included information that many have specifically asked for, as well as some that you may have never thought to ask for. It's all about you, your kids and your comfort. Our goal is to make sure you are confident in Forest Cliff's ability to care for and nurture your child.
This handbook refers to both types of camp experiences:
- Forest Cliff OVERNIGHT CAMP, which is our overnight camp at our Lambton Shores location (please refer to additional section of this handbook with green headings)
- Forest Cliff DAY CAMPS, as we partner with various churches to bring day camps to London and Southwestern Ontario (please refer to additional section of this handbook with red headings).
If you'd like more information after reading this booklet, or if you'd just like to talk to a real person at Forest Cliff, feel free to contact us:
Office: 519-913-2744 Ext. 100
Email: info@forestcliff.ca
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Parent Handbook Download
2023 Overnight Camp & Day Camp Parent Handbook
Forest Cliff Camps FAQ
Can you tell me more about Forest Cliff Camp?
What is Forest Cliff's hiring process?
Will my child fit in and be accepted at Forest Cliff?
How do you handle behavioural problems?
Day Camps FAQ
What does a typical day at Day Camp look like?
Medical Questions
Do you provide medical care at Day Camp?
How do you manage sunscreen and hydration?
What if my camper has medications?
How do I contact the Day Camp location in case of emergency?
Registration Questions
How do I request my child be placed in a group with a friend or relative?
Is there a discount for siblings?
What are the payment options for Day Camp registration?
What is your cancellation policy?
What if I need to transfer to another camp?
Overnight Camp FAQ
What does a typical day look like at Overnight Camp?
Medical Questions
Do you provide medical care at Overnight Camp?
How do you manage sunscreen application and hydration?
Can my child with special needs go to Overnight Camp?
What if my child requires a special diet or has food allergies?
What do I do if my child has medications?
When do you contact parents regarding a medical issue?
How do I contact the Overnight Camp in case of emergency?
Registration Questions
How do I request my child be placed in a cabin with a friend or relative?
Is there a discount for siblings?
What are the payment options for Overnight Camp registration?
What is your cancellation policy?
What do I do if my child is put on the Overnight Camp waitlist?
What if I need to transfer to another camp session?
Are bursaries available for Overnight Camp?
Preparing for Camp Questions
What needs to be completed before the first day of Overnight Camp?
What should my child bring to Overnight Camp?
What shouldn't my child bring to Overnight Camp?
What does check-in and check-out look like at Overnight Camp?
What do I do if I need to pick up my camper early?
Can I send mail to my camper?
About Forest Cliff
Can you tell me more about Forest Cliff?
OUR STORY
Forest Cliff Camp began at Turkey Point as the Foresthill Boys Camp in 1939 under the sponsorship of the London Christian Businessmen's Association. Incorporated in 1947, Forest Cliff Camp moved to its present location on a beautiful sandy beach on Lake Huron near Forest, Ontario.
Through the years, Forest Cliff Camp has undergone many changes. Cabins have replaced the old "tabins" and tents. The campground now rings with the laughter of both boys and girls. An exciting recreational program that includes banana boating, rocketry, horseback riding, wacky science, rock climbing wall and high ropes course has been added to the original camp activities. Training programs aimed at developing leadership skills and spiritual disciplines for potential staff have been added and improved over the years. Accredited by the Ontario Camps Association since 1997, Forest Cliff Camp is also a member of Christian Camping International Canada.
In 2015, we launched Forest Cliff Day Camps, partnering with various churches in London to bring the Forest Cliff experience to life in a Day Camp setting. Forest Cliff Day Camps is expanding in the London area and we look forward to continued growth in this new venture.
MISSION, VISION & VALUES
Forest Cliff Camp aspires to be a pioneering ministry and an indispensable partner in changing young lives. We seek to fulfill this through our mission which is to create life-changing and unforgettable experiences that encourage young people to learn more about themselves and God and inspire them to grow into their true potential.
In addition to our mission, we hold a number of values that influence the way we think and do camp:
- We desire life change for ourselves and others through God's message of love, forgiveness and hope.
- We are committed to serving children, youth and young people. We want to meet the diverse needs of all our guests.
- We are passionate about doing ministry in the context of personal, caring relationships and inclusive and close communities. As a result, we expend a great deal of time and energy finding, developing and retaining people who relate to others in such a manner.
- We are committed to delivering unique, exciting and inclusive experiences.
- We seek to be a listening, learning and leading organization that launches young people into a life of purpose and Kingdom service.
ACCREDITATION
We engage multiple licensing and accreditation agencies, consultants, partners and vendors in areas ranging from medical and emergency procedures to food service and staff training. Our Overnight Camp is accredited by the Ontario Camps Association. The Ontario Camps Association supports, advances, promotes and accredits camps throughout Ontario. back to top
What is Forest Cliff's hiring process?
SELECTION
We have located the most amazing and caring staff for your child! We strive to find staff members who are spiritually, mentally and emotionally mature to ensure that not only is your child in good hands, but in good hearts.
HIRING PROCEDURES & PROCESSES
We have a rigorous staff selection process that leads us to the best people. Our interview process covers where applicants are in their spiritual walk, maturity of faith, how to build relationships with kids, experience working with kids, and overall competencies for the job.
Once hired, every staff will have a background check covering criminal history and vulnerable sector screening. We also require a minimum of three positive non-family references.
COMPENSATION
While many camps and organizations use volunteers to staff their events, we've found that paying our staff helps provide consistent, high quality experiences for campers regardless of which week they choose to come. The best staff are in high demand as competent workers, and the reality is they need to make money in the summer. We pay our staff to make sure we attract and retain the best Christian young adults in the workforce for summer positions.
STAFF TRAINING
Our paid and volunteer staff are trained in camper care, safety protocols, child protection, conflict management and customer service.
Camper Care - focuses on camper behaviour management: how to deal with bullying, how to help with homesickness, and making sure that every camper gets individual attention. Staff are taught to recognize that every camper learns differently and has his/her own set of needs. Counsellors are trained to identify where each child is spiritually and will meet them where they're at while challenging them to grow.
Protocols - covers training in scenarios like severe weather, fire, medical emergency and intruder on site.
Child Protection - focuses on two aspects of child protection: prevention and how to report suspected abuse. Prevention of abuse at camp includes what is and is not appropriate.
Conflict Management - covers conflict management with fellow staff and to help campers work through conflict with each other.
Service - teaches staff how to address and greet kids and parents and provide an exceptional camp experience for every camper.
Aid Awareness - addresses typical camp ailments and how to deal with them including bee stings, stomach aches, and how to deal with issues discreetly. Also teaches how to work with health centre to get camper medications on time.
Additionally, all staff take classes about Forest Cliff culture, covering the gospel and Forest Cliff doctrine: who we are, why we teach what we teach, what they're expected to cover in small group time, how to share their spiritual journey in an appropriate way, and how to remain sensitive to many denominations without compromising our Statement of Faith.
During their weeks of training, paid staff are given extended solo time where they're encouraged to prepare themselves spiritually for the job.
ACTIVITY STAFF TRAINING
Activity staff receive training specific to their activity area with an emphasis on safety, proper use of equipment, engaging all campers and effective debriefs. In some high-risk areas, certification by national or provincial industry associations is required.
LEADERSHIP STAFF TRAINING
Leadership staff oversee group areas, activities, or have specialized functions at camp. Their main job is to oversee counsellors, support and activity staff, ensuring that those staff have all the resources they need to deliver an exceptional Forest Cliff experience for all their campers. These individuals have exceptional leadership abilities.
VOLUNTEER TRAINING
Our volunteers receive the same abbreviated training but are not required to have first aid training. back to top
Will my child fit in and be accepted at Forest Cliff?
INVESTMENT IN CAMPERS
Everything we do is for the kids. And everything we do is intentional. We've purposefully designed every aspect of camp to accommodate the varying needs of campers of different ages. All of these considerations create a customized experience for each Forest Cliff camper. The key to our curriculum is small groups. Small group sessions allow counsellors to identify their campers' developmental needs and challenge them in their growth. back to top
How do you handle behavioural problems?
All counsellors are trained in our behaviour management and anti-bullying policy. If a child causes a disturbance, that child is removed from the situation and there is a very caring conversation about a change in behaviour. We partner with the camper to come up with a solution that works for everyone, grace is given and consequences are enforced, if necessary. If there is no change in the camper's behaviour, the camper's parent/guardian will be called to discuss options. back to top
Day Camps FAQ
What does a typical day at Day Camps look like?
A Fun Day at Day Camp!
| 8:15 AM | >Extended Care Camper Welcome |
| 8:45 AM | Camper Welcome |
| 9:00 AM | Large Group Morning Campfire + Small Groups + Snack Break |
| 10:15 AM | Activity Rotations |
| 12:05 PM | Lunch (brought from home) |
| 12:35 PM | Activity Rotations + Camp Snack |
| 2:45 PM | Activity Rotations + Small Groups |
| 4:00 PM | Camper Pick-up |
| 4:00 - 5:15 PM | Extended Care + Camper Pick-up |
Do you provide medical care at camp?
Each Day Camp location has complete first aid kits in the event a medical issue arises. We contact parents/guardians when:
- A camper has significant bumps, bruises or cuts with the potential for scarring, especially on the face
- Any time there is something out of the ordinary (ie. seizure/accident)
- When a camper has had an exposure to a contagious disease, bug or parasite
- If a camper must be sent off-site for professional medical treatment
- Any other concerning medical issue staff deems necessary to communicate with parents
At Day Camps, we serve only peanut/nut free snacks and ask parents to provide only peanut/nut free lunches. a href="#topDC">back to top
How do you manage sunscreen application and hydration?
We require that you send sunscreen with your child. Our staff will ensure it is applied regularly.
Campers are asked to bring a water bottle to day camp to stay properly hydrated. On especially hot days, we will take extra care to ensure campers get lots of water. back to top
What if my child has medications that need to be taken at Day Camps?
If a camper requires medication during the week, it will be kept in the Day Camp office and dispersed at the appointed time. The parent/guardian will be consulted at check-in to determine if a camper's epipen or inhaler needs to remain with them at all times. At Day Camp, we serve only peanut/nut free snacks, and ask parents to provide only peanut/nut free lunches.
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How do I contact the Day Camp in case of emergency?
Call us at our direct site phone number (number will be provided in prior to arrival email). You can also email us at daycamps@forestcliff.ca. back to top
How do I request my child be placed in a group with a friend or relative?
During the registration process you will have the opportunity to request one group mate for your child's Day Camp week. We know campers want to be with their friends. We are happy to guarantee one mutual request for group mate for your camper provided they are similar ages. Please do not list multiple names. It is best if you can confirm with the friend's parent prior to registration to avoid disappointment at check-in. back to top
Is there a discount for siblings?
If registering 3 or more campers from the same household, a family discount will be applied automatically . The Family Discount does not apply when a third party is paying all or some of the fee.
For full week sessions at Overnight Camp you will receive 50% off the lowest priced registration.
For Day Camp you will receive $30 off the third and any additional registrations.
>Please note: all children must be attend the same type of camp (either Day Camp or Overnight Camp) in order to qualify for the discount. This discount does not apply to Junior Camp sessions. If using the Family Discount, no other promotional codes will apply (ie. one family cannot use First Time Camper offer AND Family Discount)."
What are the payment options for Day Camp registration?
You can register with just a deposit. The remaining balance will be due May 1st, 2022.
For your convenience, we accept credit card payments or etransfers to info@forestcliff.ca
You can log into your account at any time throughout the year to view your statement and print your receipt. back to top
What is your cancellation policy?
All cancellations must be put in writing or emailed to info@forestcliff.ca and are subject to an administration fee of $40.00.
- 45 days prior to the start of the reserved week of camp, with written notice, a complete refund (less administration fee) is available.
- 8 to 44 days prior to the start of the reserved week of camp, with written notice, a 50% refund (less administration fee) is available.
- Registration fee is non-refundable if cancelled within 7 days of the reserved week of camp or thereafter, or if a parent/guardian withdraws the camper early from the session or for inclement weather.
- If a camper needs to transfer to a different week or program, we will gladly move the camper at no charge as space allows.
The Directors or Registrar make the final decision as to who qualifies for refunds.
What if I need to transfer to another camp session?
If a camper needs to transfer to a different session or program, we will be glad to move him/her as space allows. back to top
Overnight Camps FAQ
What does a typical day at Overnight Camps look like?
A TYPICAL DAY AT Overnight Camp
| 8:00 AM | Breakfast |
| 8:45 AM | Chapel |
| 10:00 AM | Activity Period |
| 11:00 AM | Free Swim |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch |
| 1:00 PM | Cabin Devotions |
| 1:45 PM | Free Swim |
| 2:30 PM | Tuck |
| 3:00 PM | Activity Rotation |
| 5:30 PM | Supper |
| 6:30 PM | Games |
| 7:15 PM | Free Swim |
| 8:15 PM | Campfire |
| 9:15 PM | Ready for Bed |
| 9:45 PM | Lights Out |
Do you provide medical care at Overnight Camp?
We depend upon volunteer registered nurses, as well as employ a health care team for Overnight Camp sessions. The medical staff respond to emergencies, distribute medications and provide basic first aid care for our campers and staff.
All medications need to be turned in to the health centre staff in the original containers during check-in. The parent/guardian will be consulted at check-in to determine if a camper's epipen or inhaler needs to remain with the camper or kept in the counsellor room or nurse's station.
Counsellors are given a list of camper medications and the times medication needs to be taken. During the camp week, campers will go with their counsellor to the health centre to get their medication at the designated time.
We contact parents/guardians when:
- A camper has significant bumps, bruises or cuts with the potential for scarring, especially on the face
- Any time there is something out of the ordinary (ie. seizure/accident)
- When a camper has had an exposure to a contagious disease, bug or parasite
- Any time a camper is sent off-site for professional medical treatment
- Any other concerning medical issue staff deems necessary to communicate with parents back to top
How do you manage sunscreen application and hydration?
Our counsellors are trained to make sure your child is eating enough, staying hydrated and applying sunscreen. We require that you send sunscreen with your child. Our staff will ensure it is applied regularly. We also encourage campers to bring a water bottle to camp to stay properly hydrated. There are water fountains/stations around the property. On especially hot days, we will take extra care to ensure kids stay hydrated. back to top
Can my child with special needs go to Overnight Camp?
Forest Cliff has a calling to welcome every child who would like to come to camp. Through our inclusive programming we strive to meet the needs of every young person, whether it's physical, behavioural, dietary or medical. Forest Cliff Camps is committed to providing exceptional and accessible service through our one-to-one support program for campers and volunteers. Forest Cliff will remove and prevent barriers to accessibility by meeting our accessibility requirements under Ontario's accessibility laws. For scheduling purposes or for all other inquiries please contact our London office.
What if my child requires a special diet or has food allergies?
Our kitchen is familiar with special diets and food allergies. Everything we serve at Forest Cliff is peanut/nut free. We have asked that no peanut/nut products be brought to, or consumed on, the property.
A flat fee of $45 is charged for gluten free, dairy free, and/or egg free diets (if 2 or more apply please contact the office for a payment adjustment). Vegetarian option is a $15 fee. We are not able to accommodate preferences. For further information, please contact our office at info@forestcliff.ca or 519-913-2744 x 100. back to top
What do I do if my child has medications?
All medications need to be turned in to the health centre staff during check-in. Bring all medications in the original containers and do not pack them in the suitcase.
The parent/guardian will be consulted at check-in to determine if a camper's epipen or inhaler needs to remain with the camper or kept in the counsellor room or nurse's station.
Counsellors are given a list of camper medications and the times medication needs to be taken. During the camp week, campers will go with their counsellor to the health centre to get their medication at the designated time. back to top
When do you contact parents regarding a medical issue?
We contact parents/guardians when:
- A camper has significant bumps, bruises or cuts with the potential for scarring, especially on the face
- Any time there is something out of the ordinary (ie. seizure/accident)
- When a camper has had an exposure to a contagious disease, bug or parasite
- Any time a camper is sent off-site for professional medical treatment
- Any other concerning medical issue staff deems necessary to communicate with parents back to top
How do I contact the Overnight Camp in case of emergency?
Emergency phone calls will be received at the camp office at 519-913-2744 ext. 2 for the Overnight Camp Office. back to top
How do I request my child be placed in a cabin with a friend or relative?
During the registration process you will have the opportunity to request one cabin mate for your child's Overnight Camp week. We know campers want to be with their friends. We are happy to guarantee one mutual request for cabin mate for your camper provided they are similar ages and of the same sex. Please do not list multiple names. It is best if you can confirm with the friend's parent prior to registration to avoid disappointment at check-in. back to top
Is there a discount for siblings?
If registering 3 or more campers from the same household, a family discount will be applied automatically . The Family Discount does not apply when a third party is paying all or some of the fee.
For full week sessions at Overnight Camp you will receive 50% off the lowest priced registration.
For Day Camp you will receive $30 off the third and any additional registrations.
Please note: all children must be attend the same type of camp (either Day Camp or Overnight Camp) in order to qualify for the discount. This discount does not apply to Junior Camp sessions. If using the Family Discount, no other promotional codes will apply (ie. one family cannot use First Time Camper offer AND Family Discount)."
What are the payment options for Overnight Camp registration?
You can register with just a deposit. The remaining balance will be due May 1st, 2022.
For your convenience, we accept credit card payments or etransfers to info@forestcliff.ca
You can log into your account at any time throughout the year to view your statement and print your receipt. back to top
What is your cancellation policy?
All cancellations must be put in writing or emailed to info@forestcliff.ca and are subject to an administration fee of $40.00.
- 45 days prior to the start of the reserved week of camp, with written notice, a complete refund (less administration fee) is available.
- 8 to 44 days prior to the start of the reserved week of camp, with written notice, a 50% refund (less administration fee) is available.
- Registration fee is non-refundable if cancelled within 7 days of the reserved week of camp or thereafter, or if a parent/guardian withdraws the camper early from the session or for inclement weather.
- If a camper needs to transfer to a different week or program, we will gladly move the camper at no charge as space allows.
The Directors or Registrar make the final decision as to who qualifies for refunds.
What do I do if my child is put on the Overnight Camp waitlist?
When any of the camps reach their capacity, we will create a waitlist. This wait list is created on a first come, first served basis. You will be contacted when a spot becomes available. If there are no remaining spots for that camp, we encourage you to look at the other sessions that are offered.
What if I need to transfer to another camp session?
If a camper needs to transfer to a different session or program, we will be glad to move him/her as space allows. back to top
Are bursaries available for Overnight Camps?
Forest Cliff Camp bursaries are dependent upon fundraising and are granted for Overnight Camp only as funds become available. If you would like to apply for financial assistance for Overnight Camp, please complete the bursary application while completing your camp registration online. Once your application and required proof of income documentation (Notice of Assessment) is received, it will be reviewed and you will be contacted when a decision has been made. (Bursaries are not available for Day Camps)
What needs to be completed before the first day of Overnight Camp?
Prior to check in, your balance must be paid in full. Report any address/phone number changes for your family or your emergency contacts, or any changes to your camper's health card. Make sure the pick-up authorization list is correct and up-to-date. back to top
What should my child bring to Overnight Camp?
Please LABEL everything with your camper's first and last name.
- pajamas, underwear and extra socks
- warm jacket or sweatshirt, hat and raincoat/poncho
- modest swimsuit and t-shirt for swimming (required)
- beach towel and sunscreen
- 1 pair of swim shoes/sandals that can get wet; 1 pair of closed toed shoes (required)
- towel, washcloth, toiletries, comb or brush
- sleeping bag and pillow (bagged)
- sheet to cover the plastic mattress (optional)
- water bottle
- shorts, t-shirts, long pants and long-sleeved shirts
- insect repellent
- optional - disposable camera (as cell phones are not permitted)
PACKING GUIDELINES FOR Overnight Camp:
- We recommend two bags only - a suitcase for clothing/shoes/toiletries, and a large duffle bag for your camper's sleeping bag and pillow. No loose items please
- When getting sleeping bags out of storage, if you put them in a clothes dryer on high heat for 30 minutes, it will kill any bugs or eggs that may have made a home there over the winter months
- Place toiletries in a plastic bag or kit that makes it easy to travel to the showers. This also reduces the chance of spilling
- Make sure your camper's name is on all items. Unlabelled lost items will be donated to charity throughout the summer
- Pack together with your camper. This allows your camper to know where everything is and to develop a sense of responsibility
- We recommend packing some plastic bags for dirty/wet laundry
- Please bring any medications in their original packaging to registration and submit them to a health team member at check-in. Please do not pack medications in your camper's luggage
- Make your bags visually distinctive. Add something brightly coloured to your bags. This makes it easier for you to spot them at pick up, and prevents other people from taking your bags by mistake. Distinctively marked suitcases and duffel bags are easier to find if they are misplaced
- Identification tags on your bags is import (inside too is helpful) back to top
What shouldn't my child bring to Overnight Camp?
If brought to Overnight Camp, these items can be claimed by the parent/guardian from the camp office at check-out:
- food that is not identified as peanut/nut free
- valuables
- non-prescription or over-the-counter medications
- spending money
- gaming devices, iPods or mp3 players, radios, CD players, etc.
- cell phone
- weapons, including pocket knives
- lighters
- illegal substances (if brought to camp, will be confiscated and disposed of, not returned) back to top
What does check-in and check-out look like at Overnight Camp?
CHECK-IN
Check-in starts Sunday at 4:00 PM. Exceptions are as follows:
- For our Junior Camps starting on a Wednesday, check-in is at 2:00 PM
- For our SALT participants, arrival time is 2:00 PM Sunday
At check-in we will make sure all camper forms are collected and completed, and medication is dropped off. All balances must be paid prior to arrival. You will be asked for a list of people who will be authorized to pick up your child. You will also get to meet your child's counsellors.
CAMPER WELCOME
Once you have dropped your camper off, campers will be in their cabins getting to know their counsellors and cabin mates. At this time, parents are invited to join us at 5:00 PM in the dining hall for dinner and a short presentation about Forest Cliff. Feel free to bring your other children along. After dinner you'll be able to watch the Opening Rally from the dining hall, and get a taste of how much fun your camper is going to have during the week. The Opening Rally is over by 6:00 PM.
CAMP STORE
The camp store will be open for parents, campers and visitors to purchase Forest Cliff merchandise at check-in and at check-out. There are low-cost souvenir items as well as Forest Cliff attire. Forms of payment are cash and credit card. Junior Campers (½ week) will have the opportunity to visit the camp store at check-in or pick up, but not both.
CHECK-OUT
Check-out time is 4:00 PM on Friday. Exceptions are as follows:
- For our Junior Camps starting on a Sunday, check-out is Tuesday at 6:00 PM
- For our SALT participants, check-out is 5:00 PM Friday
- For SALT camp, check-out is 4:00 PM Thursday, September 1st
Only the people who are listed as authorized on the registration form will be able to pick up the child. Please notify the office in advance to update permissions should something arise during the week. You will need to bring photo ID with you for the check-out process. Our staff will be available to answer any of your questions. back to top
What do I do if I need to pick up my camper early?
Should it be necessary for you to pick your camper up early, please notify the office as soon as possible. You will report to the camp office upon arrival. Please remember to bring your photo ID. back to top
Can I send mail to my camper?
Campers love receiving mail while they are at camp. Camper mail can be left at the registration table for delivery whatever day you indicate. If you prefer email, put your camper's name and cabin number (given at check-in) in the subject line and send it to mail@forestcliff.ca. Mail and email is delivered at lunch. back to top
