Staff Handbook - Camp Doublecreek

Staff Handbook
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
History of Camp Doublecreek ........................................................................................................... 6
Join Our Teams! ............................................................................................................................................. 7
Camp Doublecreek Staff Mission Statement ............................................................................ 9
Camp Doublecreek Organizational Chart ................................................................................ 10
CAMP FACILITIES/EQUIPMENT ...................................................................................................... 11
Medical and Safety Policies & Procedures ....................................................................................... 13
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES ............................................................................................................. 13
GENERAL GUIDELINES: ................................................................................................................ 13
Stings or insect bites: ........................................................................................................................ 13
Head injury, possible broken bone, fainting: ............................................................................ 13
Skinned knees, elbows, etc. ............................................................................................................... 13
Stomachache (real or imagined) & headache ........................................................................... 13
Overheated (This is potentially a very serious situation) ..................................................... 13
American Disabilities Act Compliance Policy:.......................................................................... 14
Safety & Security Guidelines ........................................................................................................ 15
Interpersonal interactions with campers ..................................................................................... 16
strategies for preventing discipline problems:......................................................................................... 16
Additional Tips for Preventing Discipline Problems: .......................................................... 17
Strategies for Dealing with discipline problems ....................................................................... 18
Major infractions (physical contact, sexual contact, etc…) ............................................... 19
Dealing with Specific circumstances: ............................................................................................ 20
Homesick Camper (Yes, this does occur at a day camp)................................................... 20
SPECIAL CAMPERS ........................................................................................................................ 20
American Disabilities Act Compliance Policy:.......................................................................... 21
General Policies & Procedures for Staff ............................................................................................ 22
Clothing and General Appearance: ........................................................................................ 22
Internet& Social Networks (These policies refer to any internet postings, social
network sites, including, but not limited to, facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and
Snapchat):............................................................................................................................................ 22
Personal Cell Phones: ...................................................................................................................... 23
Parking: ................................................................................................................................................. 23
Activity Equipment: .......................................................................................................................... 23
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Payroll: ................................................................................................................................................... 23
Mailboxes: ............................................................................................................................................. 24
No electronic equipment: .................................................................................................................... 24
Telephone/Fax: .................................................................................................................................... 24
SIGN- IN SHEET ..................................................................................................................................... 25
Time off .................................................................................................................................................... 25
July 4th week.......................................................................................................................................... 25
Comp time ............................................................................................................................................... 25
Early Departure (leaving prior to end of camp day) ......................................................................... 25
General information: ............................................................................................................................ 25
Professional Conduct Policies ........................................................................................................... 26
Group Counselor Policies and Procedures........................................................................................ 27
Monday mornings .............................................................................................................................. 27
Explain the following to campers: .................................................................................................. 27
Explain (show) where to get... .......................................................................................................... 27
Clipboard Notes .................................................................................................................................... 28
Check Campers’ Bags ........................................................................................................................ 28
Breaks and Lunch .............................................................................................................................. 28
Every morning ................................................................................................................................... 28
Morning and Afternoon Breaks ............................................................................................................ 30
Lunch Time ................................................................................................................................................. 30
Camper Birthdays ......................................................................................................................... 31
Swim time .................................................................................................................................................... 32
End of the day ............................................................................................................................................. 33
Fridays ......................................................................................................................................................... 34
Ribbons: ................................................................................................................................................ 34
Friday Afternoons: ............................................................................................................................ 34
Parents’ Day.......................................................................................................................................... 35
Activity Counselor Policies and Procedures .................................................................................... 36
(includes Adventure Team, Horseback riding, and the Pool) ........................................................ 36
Pickup Point (PUP) Counselor Policies and Procedures............................................................... 38
Lunch Money............................................................................................................................................ 39
Please note: ............................................................................................................................................. 42
Bus Driver Policies and Procedures .................................................................................................... 43
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Safety Checklist Procedure – (to be done before you drive the bus each time)!.................... 43
Weekend before beginning of camp week .................................................................................. 43
Morning Procedure ............................................................................................................................ 43
On the Way to Camp: ........................................................................................................................ 43
Arrival at camp: .................................................................................................................................. 44
Departure from camp: ....................................................................................................................... 44
Afternoon PUP procedure: .............................................................................................................. 44
Leaving your bus at night: ............................................................................................................... 44
Working with Difficult Parents ......................................................................................................... 45
Partnering with Overwhelmed, Anxious, Bossy, Defiant, and Unhappy Caregivers ....... 45
Camper Rules and Procedures .......................................................................................................... 46
Co-ed Contact: ............................................................................................................................................... 46
Pool Rules: ..................................................................................................................................................... 46
Horseback Rules: ........................................................................................................................................... 46
Farmers and Ranchers ........................................................................................................................... 48
MERITS ................................................................................................................................................. 48
DEMERITS ........................................................................................................................................... 48
Boys VS. Girls ............................................................................................................................................ 49
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HISTORY OF CAMP DOUBLECREEK
Carter and Trudy’s youngest daughter,
Jane, had been attending Lucille Roan’s
wonderful Running R Day Camp. Trudy
became friends with Mrs. Roan and began
working at the camp. She came home one
day and said, “I could run a day camp.”
That little seed of an idea began to grow a
few years later.
It all started with a passport. Trudy was
teaching school in Austin and Carter was
head of operations for a great
management development firm. Carter
came home one day with a passport and
said, “I got a huge promotion and raise –
the only problem is that I will have to be
out of the country a great deal of the
time.” Trudy didn’t know what to say.
Carter continued, “We’re not going to do
that. We need to do something where we
can be together.” “And what would that
be?” asked Trudy. “A day camp for boys
and girls,” replied Carter. “And Jane can
have all the horses she wants,” Trudy
added.
In March 1970, the sales contract was
signed for this property. They spent the
next 15 months remodeling the old farm
CAMP DOUBLECREEK IS...
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A place where counselors believe in boys and
girls—not just some of them, but all of them.
A horse responding to aids given correctly.
A basketball finally sailing through the goal.
An American Crawl successfully mastered over
the length of the pool.
A strong adult with hands over a child’s on a
bat.
A baby calf drinking from a bottle.
A tennis ball connecting with the racquet at long
last.
A bull’s eye (or close) hit with an arrow.
A work of art proudly taken home.
A special friendship lasting a lifetime.
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house and building camp facilities. When
deciding what to name the place, they
looked at an aerial photo of the farm and
noticed two wet-weather creeks crossed
the property and emptied into a stock
tank. The names “TwoCreeks” and
“TwinCreeks” were mentioned, but just
didn’t sound right. Then Carter brought up
“Doublecreek” and it sounded “just right.”
Trudy kept teaching school until May
1971; and Camp Doublecreek had the first
camp session that summer.
There was a road on the east side of the
property that was thought to be a county
road. It turned out to be an undedicated
lane with no name, so it was named
Doublecreek Drive. Carter and Trudy are
always amused when sometimes the
campers see the street sign and say, “Oh,
that’s where you got the name for
Doublecreek.”
Carter and Trudy summarized: “Here we
are many years later with thousands of
former campers, millions of precious
memories and hundreds of counselors
and former counselors who have meant
so
much
to
us.”
JOIN OUR TEAMS!
Our "Team Carter" and "Team Trudy"
influences touching other lives not just at
campaigns are named for the founders of
camp but everywhere! "Team Trudy" is
Camp Doublecreek. Uncle Carter passed
following her legacy of putting others first
away in March 2013 and Aunt Trudy in
and loving unconditionally everywhere life
September 2015. They have left behind
takes you.
truly inspirational legacies for us to follow.
Join us as a member of Team Carter and
"Team Carter" is people working together
Team Trudy to take what we do at camp
to accomplish goals. It is positive
beyond the Doublecreek gates!
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CAMP DOUBLECREEK STAFF MISSION
STATEMENT
Love your kids! With some it is easy. With others it can seem impossible. Those
“unlovables” are the campers who need you the most. As your campers recognize your
love and concern for them, they will in turn respect you. They will demonstrate their
respect by listening to you and doing what you ask them to. Campers don’t care what
you know, until they know you care! You will know you have “arrived” when one comes
to you for advice.
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Safety, safety, safety!! Be relentless about ensuring safety everywhere!
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Focus on and be aware of what’s going on at all times. Be conscious of any
potentially dangerous situation. Every counselor must personally accept
responsibility and take action as needed. If you are unsure if a situation needs
attention, assume it does and take appropriate action. Appropriate action
includes informing the office. An ounce of prevention...
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Make sure at least one counselor is always, always with the group. Campers
are never without counselor supervision-in the changing room, at activities, at
snack, etc. (NOTE: C.I.T.’s do not count as counselors).
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Inspire your campers by being an example to them. You can be a huge
influence in their life.
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Engage in happiness and enthusiasm, as they are contagious.
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Encourage relationships. Reach out to the unreachable child. Be a friend to the
friendless child. This is easier said than done but extremely important.
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Ensure that camp runs smoothly and on schedule (this is your responsibility as
a staff member, in concert with the Director).
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Challenge yourself to be alert to a camper’s frustration, unhappiness or
loneliness and aware of other opportunities to love your campers.
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Demonstrate leadership by setting high expectations for yourself and your
group. Be consistent. Campers need to know what is expected of them.
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CAMP DOUBLECREEK ORGANIZATIONAL
CHART
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CAMP FACILITIES/EQUIPMENT
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The Red Building
o Main office
o First Aid (the nurse)
o Mini-campers’ Room
o Snacks: ice cream, juice,
snacks, and
sodas
o Assembly Room
o Restrooms
o Lost & Found (behind red
building)
Building w/ Blue Roof: Meeting
place for D-2
Four-square Building
Volleyball Court
Ball Diamonds
Soccer Field
Dance Barn (aka, “Sing-Song”
area)
Joe Ray’s Office (storage building
behind Mini Shed – Staff Only)
Pool (Pump house behind
pool...Swim Instructors Only)
Mini Campers’ Shelter
4 “Cubbies”/Counselor Storage
Area
4 Dressing Room Buildings
Little Blue House
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Gazebo
Shuffleboard Shelters
Animal Pens
BB Gun Range & Arts & Crafts
Shelter
Arts & Crafts Building (also houses
storeroom & an office)
Tennis Courts
Tennis Shelter
Closet (Staff Only) containing:
o Racquets & balls
o Shuffleboard equipment
Super Shed (aka, Riding Arena)
Tack Room (Staff Only – except
when riding teachers use it on rainy
days)
Archery Range
Archery Storeroom (Staff Only)
o Bows
o Arrows
o Targets
Archery Shelter
Adventure Team Storage Area
o Guns & Balls
o LaserTag Equipment
Joe Ray’s Clubhouse – Golf club
storage
Damaged Equipment
If you discover damaged
equipment, notify the Safety
Coordinator.
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MEDICAL AND SAFETY POLICIES & PROCEDURES
MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
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In any emergency requiring medical aid, the chances are that you, the counselor,
will be one of the first people on the scene; therefore, it is imperative that you know
what to do.
We always have a trained medical professional on the campus to assess and treat
any situation requiring medical assistance.
If you need to bring the camper to the office, never carry a camper. This is for both
your safety and the camper’s. If they cannot walk, send for the medical staffer and
stay with the camper.
The medical staff will let you know whether or not you need to stay in the office with
the camper or if you can return to your group.
GENERAL GUIDELINES:
STINGS OR INSECT BITES :
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Bring camper to the office, even if you do not consider the sting/bite serious.
The medical staff will apply any medication or ice and watch the camper for 20
minutes.
HEAD INJURY , POSSIBLE BROKEN BONE , FAINTING :
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Send someone to the office for the medical staff to come and evaluate.
If there are two counselors in the group, obviously one comes to the office while the
other comforts the camper.
If there is only one counselor, send a reliable camper or call for a counselor at a
nearby activity to help.
SKINNED KNEES, ELBOWS, ETC.
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Bring camper to the office for medication and TLC.
STOMACHACHE ( REAL OR IMAGINED ) & HEADACHE
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Bring camper to the office.
Some stomachaches happen because the camper is anxious about an activity.
Let the medical staff assess the situation and decide what action to take.
OVERHEATED (T HIS IS POTENTIALLY A VERY SERIOUS SITUATION )
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Bring camper to the office.
The medical professional will assess and treat.
All staff and especially activity counselors should encourage campers to drink water,
before, half-way through the period and after each period.
Strenuous activities should mandate a water break during the class.
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AMERICAN DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE P OLICY :
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Doublecreek’s policy is to handle all accommodations made for campers with a
disability on a case by case basis with reasonable modifications that do not
fundamentally alter the nature of the the services provided.
All decisions on acceptance of a camper to Camp Doublecreek are made in
consultation with the Director, Medical Coordinator, the camper’s physician and
parents or legal guardians.
Camp Doublecreek has a licensed medical professional on site at all times. Staff
will be trained in general first aid and activities staff will have an additional CPR
certification. If the parent and camper’s physician determine that a non-nurse can
assist the camper in his/her care then that staff member(s) will be trained
accordingly within reasonable accommodations.
Medications
• All inhalers and medications need to be
brought to the office.
• Please be sure they are labeled with the
camper’s name.
• Medications cannot be left in the bags
because the dressing rooms are locked when
they are not being used.
IF YOU ARE ASKED TO CALL EMS
1. State: I’m calling from Camp Doublecreek at
Doublecreek Farm, 800 Doublecreek Drive.
2. State your name.
3. Briefly explain the emergency and what is
being done.
4. Do not hang up until EMS hangs up.
5. Remember: DO NOT PANIC!
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SAFETY & SECURITY GUIDELINES
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Only certified drivers approved by Camp Director will drive camp vehicles.
Please make sure you know where every child in your group is at all times. Always
count your campers at each activity. If someone is not present, find out where
he/she is. If you cannot locate a camper, let the office know immediately.
If you see an unfamiliar person on the campus or at the pickup point, introduce
yourself and ask if you can be of help. Please ask all visitors to report to the office.
Anyone on campus must wear an ID obtained from the office.
Please report any suspicious activity on the campus or at the pickup point
immediately to the office.
The speed limit is 5 (five) MPH on the campus
The lids on the Lost & Found bins are very heavy. Only counselors should lift lids to
the bins. A camper must be accompanied by his/her counselor in order to look in
lost and found.
Please do not allow campers to wander up to the house.
Avoid one-on-one situations at all times. At every location and activity, always have
at least 3 people. This is for your protection as well as the camper(s).
[Note: Active Shooter and Inclement Weather Safety Procedures will be practiced at
Staff Training.]
 If you see paper on the ground, please pick it up. If you see euipm
TAKE PRIDE IN OUR CAMPUS
• If you see paper on the ground,
please pick it up. If you see
equipment out of place, please
return it to the correct location.
• Help the campers take pride in the
camp.
ent out of
place, please return it to the correct location.
 Help the campers take pride in the camp.
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INTERPERSONAL INTERACTIONS WITH CAMPERS
STRATEGIES FOR PREVENTING DISCIPLINE PROBLEMS:
1.
Get to know your campers
Campers are most likely to comply when they
respect you. Respect, in turn, hinges on your
campers’ feeling that you really care about them.
Begin showing this care by learning their names,
likes, and dislikes.
2.
Try to meet your campers’ basic needs. These
basic needs include: 1) love; 2) a feeling of worth;
and 3) not feeling alone. Make sure that all your
interactions with your campers contribute to meeting
these basic needs.
3.
Lead close-up
Barking orders, commanding from the sidelines, and otherwise leading from a distance
will separate you from your campers and make them less inclined to listen to you. You
are in a position of authority, but you need not be authoritative or bossy. Your campers
will resent you if you abuse the power that your position affords.
3.
Establish Rules Early
Set a tone of respect and state clear expectations soon after your campers arrive at
camp. Most camp leaders prefer a combination of explaining the camp’s rules (typically
called “orientation”) and allowing the campers to discuss and establish some rules of
their own. [See Camper Rules and Procedures – Page 42]
4.
Put On the Brakes
Children are naturally curious and energetic, but their poor impulse control and judgment
can quickly transform enthusiasm into chaos...or worse. Plus, it can be easy to begin
acting immaturely when you’re playing with kids all day. Just remember: You are the
adult. It’s your job to put on the brakes and regain control when your campers start to
lose control.
5.
Supervise Actively
Some camp leaders confuse being “on duty” with snoozing or simply being in the vicinity
of campers; but when you’re on duty, you need to be active. Walk around, talk with
campers, and see what everyone is up to. Actively supervising, rather than passively
existing at camp will prevent misbehavior and camper-to-camper abuse. Be one step
ahead of your campers!
6.
Use Effective Praise
It’s easy to notice bad behavior but “catching kids being good” is a skill you may need to
cultivate. When children arrive at camp, they’ll be looking for boundaries. They won’t ask
aloud, but they will be thinking: What are the rules here? What can I get away with? How
are things here different from home or school? Will my counselor treat me differently
than my parents? Naturally, some things will be different; some will be the same. But
when children listen, follow directions, and behave unselfishly, you should offer praise
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that is positive (not sarcastic), immediate (not delayed for days), specific (not vague),
and true (not exaggerated). Genuine praise, used strategically, helps reinforce and
shape good behavior. Example: “I really liked the way that you . . .”
ADDITIONAL TIPS FOR PREVENTING DISCIPLINE PROBLEMS:
1.
Create Structure and Limits (Mark it)
Stating rules up-front—before children have a chance to test limits—helps to minimize
misbehavior. Rather than lengthy lectures, mark limits with a few clear, simple
guidelines for each activity. Set a reasonable duration for the activity so that fatigue
doesn’t spark mischief. [See Camper Rules and Procedures – Page 44]
2.
Make Process Comments (Say it)
Most young people understand rules and the
basic difference between right and wrong.
Therefore, simply saying what you’ve
observed—such as “It looks like it’s important
for you to win” or “That was a harsh way to
treat a friend”—is an effective way to correct
misbehavior.
3.
Stay Physically Close (Park it)
Experience with young people will teach you
which ones are prone to misbehavior and even what the precursors to serious
misbehavior are. Use this valuable knowledge to park yourself physically close to
potential troublemakers. See what you can stop early.
4.
Prepare for Transitions (Prep it)
Stopping a fun activity, especially when your team is behind, can be frustrating and
spark misbehavior. Prep your group for transitions by announcing half-times, two-minute
warnings, water breaks and end-of-period transitions. Punctuate competitions with
cheers and good sportsmanship. Also, use games to move from one activity to the
next.
5.
Redirect Emerging Problems (Send it)
Left to their own devices, many young people spin activities out of control. When you
notice things getting a bit rowdy, send the activity in a positive direction by giving it some
structure and limits (Strategy #1 above). For example, a volleyball fight turns into
volleyball instruction.
6.
Encourage Responsibility (Give it)
When you give young people a meaningful and age-appropriate job to do, they feel a
sense of purpose. In turn, this sense of purpose—this feeling of belongingness and
importance—diminishes the desire and the opportunities to misbehave. Supervise all
jobs, of course.
7.
Recognize Signature Strengths (Tap it)
Young people who misbehave often get a steady diet of criticism and punishment. You
can motivate positive behaviors when you reverse that trend by recognizing the skills
individual children possess. Offering genuine praise and chances to help other children
really helps.
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STRATEGIES FOR DEALING WITH DISCIPLINE PROBLEMS
Sometimes, in spite of your best efforts at prevention of discipline problems, misbehavior will
occur. The following strategies are helpful in dealing with problem behavior in children:
1.
State the Positive Alternate Behavior
It’s easy to spot misbehaviors and describe what you don’t like. However, if you’d like to
teach new and positive behaviors, then you’ll need to describe them specifically. “Stay
within 10 feet of the group on the way to Ag” is more powerful and lasting than “Stop
drifting apart from the group.”
2.
Invite Problem-Solving
To reinforce the rationale behind rules and give young people a healthy perspective on
the consequences of their misbehavior, ask questions such as, “What do you think we
might do about this?” “How might you turn things around?” and “What’s a reasonable
consequence?”
3.
Rehearse and Redo
In the spirit of forgiveness and grounded in the notion that performing the positive
alternate behavior (Strategy #1 above)
promotes durable behavior change, try
having an individual or a group start fresh
and perform an activity correctly. With a little
coaching, most kids get it right.
4.
Provide Buddies
Peers can be excellent teachers, through
their youthful explanations and easy-tofollow example. Share some leadership
responsibility by buddying up a skilled child
with a child who is still learning. Supervise
their interaction to keep the instruction
positive and inspiring.
5.
Allow Positive Peer Pressure
Peer pressure can often shape positive behaviors. Under your watchful eye, you can
allow the group’s sentiments to put pressure on a peer who may need encouragement or
direct feedback on how his or her misbehavior is affecting the group. Social
consequences do work.
6.
Debrief Time-Outs
Some young people won’t understand exactly why you removed them from an activity,
asked to take a break, or given a time-out. When things have settled, it’s essential to
ask, “Do you know why I asked you to take a break?” and then allow them to make
amends with others.
7.
Communicate with Camp Leadership
If a young person’s misbehavior is chronic or severe enough, it’s time to bring the
behavior to the attention of sectional leader. Camp Leadership will counsel with the
child and call the parents if needed.
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MAJOR INFRACTIONS (PHYSICAL CONTACT, SEXUAL CONTACT, ETC…)
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Need a Cool Down (Green Bench)–Take to timeout and document incident. Timeouts
should follow the rule of age: 1 minute per age of camper.
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Repeated Negative Behavior (Red Bench) – Take to timeout, document activity, and
find Sectional Leader immediately. Sectional Leader or Director will call parent or send
a note home.
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Repeated Unacceptable Negative Action(s) – Take camper(s) to the office and find
Sectional Leader immediately. Sectional Leader or Director will call the parent and work
to develop an action plan. If the camper(s) are not able to comply with the action plan,
the camper(s) may be dismissed from camp.
DISCIPLINE = TRAINING
• To discipline is to train. Using positive
discipline measures (effective timeouts,
modeling, incentives, loss of privileges) can
help shape good behavior in campers.
• Negative discipline measures (hitting,
excessive yelling) may only reinforce the bad
behavior in the campers. Campers’ hitting is
NEVER acceptable.
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DEALING WITH SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES:
HOMESICK CAMPER (Y ES, THIS DOES OCCUR AT A
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DAY CAMP )
Look at this situation as another opportunity to build a
closer relationship with a child and to foster
independence.
Love them unconditionally and keep the camper busy.
Try to get the camper to participate in playing games,
listening to stories, and encouraging
friendships/partnerships with others in the group.
Make sure they are involved in all the activities of the
group.
Don’t allow them to be alone.
If you are unable to soothe the camper, ask the
Sectional Leaders -- they’ve been there before.
SPECIAL CAMPERS
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All campers at Doublecreek are special. But sometimes we accept children with
special needs: medical, physical, neurological, social/emotional, etc.
We will make an indication of some kind on the group list. Some indications will be
as simple as listing of food allergies or noting that an inhaler is in the office in case
of an asthma attack.
If it is something other campers do not need to know, we will indicate that with “read
reg” (shorthand for read the registration form).
There may also be the indication “nurse/counselor read reg.” This indicates the
nurse is involved. In this case the nurse will need to visit with you about the
problems.
Occasionally there is a situation that is unique or unusual. We indicate this with the
notation “see Sectional Leader or Office Person.”
Sometimes other counselors also need to be informed of the problem (i.e. pickup
point counselors, activity counselors). It is the Sectional Leader’s responsibility to tell
them, making sure other campers cannot hear.
We will also indicate the most probable way to handle the problem.
If any of the above notations are on the group list, it is of the utmost importance that
you read the registration for Monday, ASAP.
There are times when we get problem children we are not told about. We need to
know about any problems you have: discipline problems, troublemakers, very shy
children, health problems, etc. Please bring these to the attention of Sectional
Leader. We cannot overstress the importance of this.
State Regulations definition of supervision -“direct supervision in the immediate
vicinity.”
AMERICAN DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE P OLICY :
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Doublecreek’s policy is to handle all accommodations made for campers with a
disability on a case by case basis with reasonable modifications that do not
fundamentally alter the nature of the the services provided.
All decisions on acceptance of a camper to Camp Doublecreek are made in
consultation with the Director, Medical Coordinator, the camper’s physician and
parents or legal guardians.
Camp Doublecreek has a licensed medical professional on site at all times. Staff
will be trained in general first aid and activities staff will have an additional CPR
certification. If the parent and camper’s physician determine that a non-nurse can
assist the camper in his/her care then that staff member(s) will be trained
accordingly within reasonable accommodations.
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GENERAL POLICIES & PROCEDURES FOR STAFF
CLOTHING
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AND
G ENERAL APPEARANCE :
The Doublecreek staff conveys “Being Awesome” in a clean cut “All-American” image to
the campers and parents.
Staff members are encouraged to have clean haircuts and be shaven. Men are
encouraged to have short hair
(above the ears) and ladies are
encouraged to have a modest
length to their hair.
Jewelry at camp should be
limited to watch and stud
earrings for the ladies.
Being on staff @ Camp
Doublecreek is a privilege.
Please respect the history and
legacy of Camp when wearing
your staff shirt…especially
when you wear it away from
campus.
Staff shirts are to be worn Mondays and Fridays. (Note: On Fridays, theme gear may
replace staff shirt.)
You are responsible for purchasing your staff shirt. These are available from the office
personnel.
Staff will wear lace-up athletic shoes at all times when on campus (exception: while @
pool).
No clothing with any objectionable logos, writing or pictures (i.e., cursing, extreme
violence, etc.).
Please wear modest clothing, modest swimsuits and no ‘short’ shorts.
Men may not have underwear showing or pants below the waist line.
Absolutely no drugs or alcohol while on the job (especially on campus or at
pickup points.
Absolutely no knives, guns, or any other weapons on campus or at the pickup
points.
INTERNET & SOCIAL NETWORKS (THESE POLICIES REFER TO ANY INTERNET POSTINGS,
SOCIAL NETWORK SITES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, FACEBOOK, YOUTUBE,
TWITTER, AND SNAPCHAT):

22
Staff may not “LIKE” or write on the “wall” of a minor or minors who are or were or
will be campers at Camp Doublecreek (campers and CIT’s) on any social media site
other than the Camp Doublecreek Facebook or Pinterest page;




Staff may not post any information or photos of any kind of a minor or minors who
are or were or will be campers at Camp Doublecreek (campers or CIT’s) on any
social media site.
Encourage campers who want to connect with you to join Doublecreek Facebook,
Twitter, or Blog.
Staff is discouraged from posting any pictures that would not represent the core
values (See page 8) of Camp Doublecreek.
Staff may “friend request” and write on the wall of Camp Doublecreek’s Facebook
page…in fact, you are encouraged to do so! www.facebook.com/CampDoublecreek.
PERSONAL CELL PHONES:



Personal cell phones are not allowed to be used on the campus.
Personal cell phones may only be used for Camp Doublecreek business at the
pickup point.
At the beginning of each day, your cell phone needs to be turned off or silenced and
placed in your Camp Doublecreek mailbox.
PARKING:



Counselor parking is on the west side of tennis or north of tennis court.
Bus parking lot can be used, but please don’t block buses -- they will leave before
you. The house can be used -- just please don’t block driveway or other vehicles.
Please note: Camp Doublecreek is not responsible for any damage to your car or
personal property.
ACTIVITY EQUIPMENT :






Only counselors may get equipment out of snack room, little house, or Joe Ray’s office.
Equipment (tennis, shuffleboard, bases, balls, archery, etc.) must not be left unattended.
Replace all equipment in the closet or hand it to another counselor (if it is to be used
immediately).
Games or equipment from the game room need to be returned to the appropriate place.
Leave it like you found it. Be sure to lock doors, replace boxes, etc.
All equipment must be put up at the end of the day. Even if you did not get it out, please
make sure everything is in its right place.
PAYROLL:




Paychecks will be issued no earlier than 4:00 p.m. on payday & placed into your
mailbox.
Do not open paychecks while on duty.
If you have questions about your paycheck, ask Kim.
Paychecks are not to be discussed with other employees. This is grounds for
dismissal.
23
M AILBOXES:




Each staff member will be assigned a mailbox
Your cell phone (turned off) goes here every morning
This is where you will receive any communication from the office
Your paycheck will be placed in your box @ 4 pm on paydays.
NO ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT:


No personal electronic equipment, including, but not limited to, CD
players/iPods/MP3players/radios and other personal property should be brought with
you to camp or on the bus. Any equipment required for an activity will be provided by
Camp Doublecreek.
All music to be used at camp or on the bus must be on the pre-approved Camp
Doublecreek playlists and played on a Doublecreek device.
TELEPHONE/FAX :




The telephone/fax is for office use only.
Any emergency requiring the use of a telephone call/fax needs to be cleared with the
office. Arrangements will have to be made for someone to be with your group while you
are conducting your business. If you were not able to complete your business then you
will have to talk to the office again.
Do not ask office personnel to make calls for you.
If you are expecting a call, let the office know. Personal calls cannot be handled by the
camp office staff.
A RRIVE AT WORK ON
TIME !!
AM ARRIVAL TIMES :


24
Pickup point: 7:25 a.m.
Camp: 7:45 a.m.
SIGN- IN SHEET


Be sure you sign in every day. Document the time if you leave early or if you come to
camp late. (If you don’t sign in, you don’t get paid). Paychecks are based on this written
documentation
Any potential absence from mandatory training must be discussed in advance with Dan.
TIME OFF





There is no paid leave of any kind.
Any request for time off is not guaranteed and is subject to staffing level.
Any request for absence from camp needs to be in writing to administration and has to
be approved before the beginning of camp.
Any situation requiring absence after the first day of camp requires the approval of
administration at least 2 weeks in advance.
The time off approval is dependent upon adequate staffing. Two or more days asked off
will more than likely result in the full week off.
JULY 4TH WEEK
Employment the July 4th week is dependent upon the staffing requirements. If you are
willing to volunteer to be off that week, then please let the office know. You will be
notified sometime the week before as to whether your services are needed that
particular week.
•
COMP TIME






Used for the days you were not in attendance.
Pay is based on your hourly rate.
May be accrued by working outside regular camp hours excluding mandatory training
sessions.
Must be approved in advance by administration.
May be used any time while Camp is in session.
Any Comp Time not used by the last payroll period is included in the final check.
E ARLY DEPARTURE (LEAVING PRIOR TO END OF CAMP DAY)



Only with prior approval from Dan
Sign out and put time of departure on timesheet
Be sure to tell office staff that you are leaving.
GENERAL INFORMATION :






Everything we do is to improve the life of a camper! Therefore, every staff has the
challenged to act as a role model at camp and outside camp.
If you are in a unique and unavoidable situation that may constitute a problem for your
employment, please call Camp as soon as possible to discuss the situation with Dan.
Pickup point counselors must have your camp-approved phone on and in a place where
it can be heard at all times – including on the bus.
Camp Doublecreek does not condone the personal use of illegal drugs on or off duty.
Any sexual contact between staff and camper will result in immediate dismissal.
No borrowing from campers.
25
PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT POLICIES
Here are the guidelines for staff conduct at Camp. These include verbal and non-verbal
conduct. The goal of our instruction is love, safety and education. If you keep this in mind at all
times, chances are you will not have any problems with inappropriate conduct. The guidelines
and information provided by Presidium, Inc. in the online modules you completed apply at all
times for both staff and campers. Violation of any of the policies and guidelines will result in
immediate dismissal with no chance of rehire.
Much as we dislike addressing inappropriate and unacceptable conduct, past experience
has taught us that certain policies have to be in place. Please note the following and know
that these examples of conduct will result in drastic action. This is to promote the safety and
security of all campers and maintain the legacy and reputation of Camp Doublecreek.
Actions that are cause for immediate dismissal include (but are not limited to):
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
26
Verbal abuse. If you have a question about how to address a camper, see one of the
Sectional Leaders.
Physical discipline of any kind. If you have a real “problem camper,” see Sectional
Leader for help/assistance.
Any touching of a child except for handshakes, short appropriate hugs. Never
touch a child in an aggressive manner.
Any cursing or other inappropriate language, including any words that can be
used in a derogatory way.
Nudity, mooning or dropping of shorts.
Communication, both verbal and non-verbal, that could reflect negatively on Camp
Doublecreek’s legacy and reputation.
Comparing one child’s body to another.
Unsafe behavior at the pool or at horseback (e.g., pushing people into the pool.).
Possession of drugs or alcohol on campus
Possession of handguns, knives, or any other weapons on campus.
Any sexual contact between counselor and camper.
GROUP COUNSELOR
POLICIES AND
PROCEDURES
MONDAY MORNINGS
First period each Monday is orientation for the campers. This is your opportunity to
teach them the following information:






Make sure all campers have been introduced to each other and feel welcome.
Every camper should hear his/her name called.
Do some kind of introduction of campers but don’t bore the veteran campers.
Enlist the veteran campers’ help with the new campers.
Check bags
Give tour of campus.
EXPLAIN THE FOLLOWING TO CAMPERS:
 Group is to stay with you. (K - 4)
 Do not climb trees, shade shelters or flagpoles
 Do not throw rocks
 Do not go into tall grass or reach under things
 Do not drink out of other people’s thermos, drink, etc. ( this also applies to counselors)
 Nocturnal animals. These are animals usually only out at night. If you see one during
daytime it is probably sick. Leave it alone and notify someone.
 Farmers and Ranchers: Explain to campers in K – 4 that he/she is a farmer or
rancher. Indicate on your group list with an F or an R. (5th and 6th graders do Boys Vs.
Girls)
 Restrooms – show campers where they are located and explain who they are to notify
if they need to go to the restroom.
 Make sure they understand the reason behind the above rules
EXPLAIN (SHOW) WHERE TO GET...
 Gatorade
 Bottled Water
 Ice cream
 Snacks
 Sodas
 How snacks are to be placed in lunch basket (leave in lunch box or to be placed in a
plastic bag)
27
CLIPBOARD NOTES
 Occasionally there will be notes on your clipboard. If it is an announcement that applies
to your group, be sure they are aware of the information.
 Notation “read reg” or “nurse/coun read reg” is indication that you need to check out this
information with the office as soon as you can.
CHECK CAMPERS’ BAGS
 Be sure to check bags for medications, money, contraband (toys, radios, weapons, etc.)
including cell phones or notes from the parents. The only thing that should be in a
camper’s bag is a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen. Other items need to be brought to the
office and the office staff will assist you in what to do with them.
 Explain that bags do not go home until Friday.
 Take group to your dressing area to put bags up.
BREAKS AND LUNCH



Get snack cards from the office to hand out to your group
Each week on Monday before first break the cards for your group need to be numbered.
Put the corresponding # on your group list.
Campers are to return snack card to counselor immediately after having it punched
Make sure every camper feels they are the most important person at Doublecreek
Does all this information look a little overwhelming? Not to worry...you will have a list of the
above information on your clipboard each Monday.
E VERY MORNING
1. Pick up from office and take to your group’s meeting location the following:
 Clipboard with group list,
 Lunch order form,
 Baggie, and
 Group lunch basket (from the canteen room).
2. Call the roll and record on Group List
 On the group list, put a check if camper is present.
 Leave space blank if camper is absent.
 Count your group. Make sure the number of check marks on your group list is the same
as the number of campers present.
 If you have an extra camper, bring him/her to the office.
 Do not add names to the group list.
 If you have more checkmarks than campers, make the appropriate correction.
 Put the total number of campers present at the bottom of your list.
28
3. Make sure every camper has a lunch:
 As you call each name, say,” Let me see your lunch.” (NOTE: make sure younger
campers actually have a lunch – sometimes parents send snacks in lunch bags rather
than a full lunch).
 Put each child’s lunch in the basket or
 If camper does not have a lunch, check to see if they have pre-ordered. If not, ask what
they want to order and record on the lunch order form.
4. Complete Lunch Order Form:
 If the camper brought their lunch:
o If camper says that they brought their lunch, make sure it is a lunch and not a
snack or items to go along with a lunch.
o Sometimes parents put money in the lunchbox and the child does not know and
assumes since they brought the lunch box it is lunch.
o If the camper truly did bring a lunch on the lunch order line write “B” in the lunch
order space.
o Younger groups: be sure to look in the lunch (box/sack, etc.) to be sure it is a
lunch (sometimes it is a snack and they need to order lunch.)
 Pre-ordered lunch:
o Parents may pre-order a camper’s lunch.
o The item(s) will be written in on your lunch order.
o Do not change the order unless it has been cleared in the office.
o The order is to be placed even if the child brings a lunch (let the office know
because there might have been a mistake) or if the child is absent (they might
come late).
 Lunch orders by check:
o Order the camper a lunch for the amount that is on the check.
o Write “ck” next to the order.
o Place check in the baggie.
 Lunch orders by cash:
o Parents are asked to send lunch money in an envelope with the child’s name
and lunch order written on the outside.
o Take the money out of the envelope, count it and put it into your baggie.
o If the amount is not correct, make sure you are ordering the correct item(s).
o If the amount is greater than needed for the order, you may make change out of
your baggie or you may send the camper to the office to get change.
o Camper is to keep up with any extra money.
o Please be very sure you are ordering correctly. Read carefully what the parent
has written on the envelope.
o Sometimes campers order more than one item.
o Write item and amount ordered under each camper’s name.
o Write the total amount of money put into the baggie next to the campers’ order.
29

No money or lunch:
o If a camper forgets his/her lunch, order whatever the camper wants.
o Next to the order, write “chg” (charge)
o Order a lunch even if camper states that parents are bringing a lunch

Lunch Count Sheet:
o Count the number of each item ordered.
o Write that number next to the item on the sheet.
o If a camper is absent and has something ordered, be sure to include it in this
amount
5. Baggie:


Put all money given to you for that day’s lunch in the baggie.
Make sure to take the exact amount. If a camper has too much money, send
them to the office to get change and then put the exact amount in the baggie.
6. Return Clipboard with completed Group List, Lunch Order, and Baggie to the office
as soon possible after roll call. [NOTE: Your first week will be the exception, but 3
incorrect lunch orders and you lose may the ability to be rewarded with any bonus,
free snacks or lunches.]
MORNING AND AFTERNOON BREAKS






Pick up the snack cards from the office for your
group.
Meet your group at your special place (probably
where you checked roll),not at the office doors!
Hand out snack cards.
Remind campers where to get ice cream, Gatorade,
water, snacks, and soft drinks, etc.
Campers return snack card to you after the card has
been punched.
When all the group’s cards have been returned to
you, bring cards back to the office.
LUNCH TIME
1. Pick- up the following items from the office:



Snack cards
Clipboard
Lunch Order Form
2. Retrieve lunch bags in basket from canteen room
30
3. Pick up Pre-Ordered Lunches from the Shuffleboard Shelter
4. During Lunch:





Eat with your group.
Encourage/enforce good table manners.
No throwing food, please.
No trading food (due to food allergies, etc.).
Keep up with trash and get it to a trash can.
5. After Lunch:





Clean your area. Cleanliness is your responsibility, but an efficient counselor will see to
it that campers clean up their own mess—at lunch, in dressing rooms, etc.
Pour any liquid out of cans/drink boxes in bucket at the end of porch before throwing
can/box away.
Return the following to the office:
o Snack cards
o Clipboard
o Lunch order
Return lunch basket to the canteen room.
Accompany group to Sing-Song.
CAMPER BIRTHDAYS


Birthdays are special and we try to always recognize campers on their birthdays.
Counselors, please alert the office when a birthday is coming up.
We like to sing to them at Sing-Song and have them run around the shed.
Occasionally, however, a camper is too shy to enjoy this. We respect that so
sometimes the campers will want the group counselor to run with them.
31
SWIM TIME
1. Prior to entering the Pool Area:





At the dressing rooms, instruct campers to remove clothes, shoes and socks and
place in their bags.
Put sunscreen on every camper, even if they are not swimming. Use only
sunscreen campers bring from home. If the camper does not have any sunscreen,
ask office staff to send a note home and obtain lotion from the office.
Ensure that all campers take their towels to the pool.
Tell campers to wait until the Lifeguards tell them to enter pool area.
Plan games for campers not swimming.
2. Swim lessons




Minis thru 3rd grade automatically have lessons unless noted otherwise on group
list.
Campers 4th grade and older: Group list will have Y (yes) or N (no) by swim
activities.
The “N” means that camper may not go to the pool.
Campers with “Y” by their names are given lessons only if requested by parents. It
is your responsibility to be aware of what is indicated on group list.
3. After swimming:


32
After changing clothes, campers are to hang towels and swimsuits on clothesline.
Campers may not go to horseback riding with a wet suit under their clothes.
END OF THE DAY




Bags do not go home each day. Bags and everything brought in them (swimsuit,
towel, sunscreen, etc.) will be sent home on Friday.
Be sure everyone gets to where their PUP checks roll – especially Monday
afternoon.
If you do not have a PUP, assist in getting all campers to where their PUP
checks roll
Wait until all buses leave before leaving camp.
33
FRIDAYS
RIBBONS:
•
Ribbons are awarded on Fridays by activity counselors from adventure team,
horseback riding and swimming. These need to be placed in the appropriate
envelopes before camp starts Friday morning.
•
Any counselor (activity or group) may give ribbons for any accomplishment: reaching a
certain goal, improving, having a good attitude, etc. Tournaments are another good
reason for awarding ribbons. [NOTE: Try to make ribbons about character
qualities.]
•
Group counselors give a white ribbon on Friday the first
week a camper attends. Friday ribbons will be given out
@ the end of the day by the group counselor in the
dressing room along w/ arts & crafts projects.
•
Please don’t limit ribbons to these times. Use your
creativity. This is a great way to motivate campers. It
may be a good idea to give them out at sing-song. It is
always good to give ribbons in front of the group or
even the whole camp. Check with Dan.
•
One word of caution-refrain from awarding ribbons for anything that could potentially
hurt a camper’s feelings. When in doubt – check it out with Sectional Leader.
•
These ribbons are important-they are important both to the camper and their parents!
Please see that they get home with the camper. This can be accomplished by putting
the ribbons on the PUP clipboard or giving them to the group counselor. A camper
cannot be expected to keep up with ribbons during activities.
•
Put first and last names, group and pickup point on the ribbon. First names only will
not suffice.
FRIDAY AFTERNOONS :
•
The bell for the last period rings early.
•
All campers go to their dressing rooms @ this time.
•
All belongings are put into the campers’ bags.
•
Anything leftover needs to be shown to the group to locate its owner. Your group
needs to be seated & paying attention. If these items are still not claimed, put them in
a pile outside the dressing room.
•
Arts & crafts projects, ribbons and snack cards are given out during the Friday Awards
Ceremony.
•
Everyone stays in the dressing room until you have checked it to make sure it is clean.
If not, get your group to clean it.
•
Each group will be excused by Sectional Leader to leave their dressing room.
•
At this time campers may use their snack cards to get drinks/snacks for the ride home.
34
PARENTS’ DAY
•
•
•
Be clean and well-groomed.
Act in your usual professional manner including being courteous and polite.
Ask parents to check in at the office and if they resist remind them it is for our
campers’ safety.
35
ACTIVITY COUNSELOR POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
(INCLUDES ADVENTURE TEAM, HORSEBACK RIDING, AND THE POOL)
Primary Responsibilities
★ Keep children safe
★ Have fun with campers
★ Teach
Before you begin to teach a class, ask yourself the
following questions:





How do I begin the class?
How much information do these campers already know, and what they must know before I
begin the class? This includes safety rules, game rules, etc. Are these skills taught by words
or by demonstration?
What are the capabilities of each age group?
How much time is spent waiting or wondering what to do next?
Do I have adequate lesson plans for each group?
Achievement/Proficiency Levels


36
Camp Doublecreek has specific levels for horseback riding and swimming. These instructors
teach with excellence in an encouraging way.
Rockwall, Catwalk, Screamer, Low Ropes, Gun Safety, Archery and Paintball each set own
goals and encourage completion of the activity with Core Values (See page 8) in mind.
AM Bus Duty (Horseback Riding Teachers are exempt)



Greet the campers with a smile as they unload off the bus.
Assist in the unloading of campers from buses as needed.
Direct campers to their meeting places. You will need to take the younger campers to their
designated location.
Break and lunch duty assignments

You may be assigned to certain tasks during these times, such as Coke Machine, Snack Table,
Smoothie Bar, Ice Cream, etc.
Snack Cards




Snacks not used day of may not be carried over to another day.
“One Snack” slips are used once and torn up.
Please be careful and punch only one dot when punching the snack card.
Please be sure to punch out a dot and not anywhere else on the card.
37
PICKUP POINT (PUP) COUNSELOR POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
What a responsibility!! You are Doublecreek to many people – the only staff some ever see. You
make a frightened first-time camper feel that camp might be a good idea after all. Wear your
friendliest smiles! And don’t forget to wear your Camp Doublecreek shirt on Mondays and
Fridays.
Weekend Prior to the Beginning of the Camp Week:




Be sure and pickup your PUP clipboard with your blank nametags on Friday at the end
of the day.
Check your email over the weekend for an updated list prior to Monday morning. Call
Kim at 512-773-9593 or email Kim at [email protected] if you do not receive
a list by 5:00 pm. DO NOT wait until Sunday or Monday to notify us that you did not
receive an updated list.
Print list.
Make nametags for all your campers on the pickup point list prior to Monday morning.
Please include the camper’s name (first and last), grade, and PUP on the nametag.
Morning Arrival at Pickup Point (PUP)




Arrive at your PUP no later than 7:25 am (Doublecreek time -- If you’re not sure check
with the clock in the office.)
Park your car and be ready with clipboard and phone on in hand to greet campers.
Call the office no later than 7:30 am to report that you have arrived @ your PUP.
[NOTE: First week of working PUP is exception, but late phone calls or arrivals
may result in a fine of $1 per minute.]
Unload bus by grade!
Monday mornings



38
Make sure every camper has a nametag before they arrive at camp.
On the way to camp, talk about:
 The bus number
 Safety Rules (see “on the bus” section below)
 Where each group meets each morning
Please make sure to leave the previous week’s list on the clipboard so that office
personnel can file it Monday morning.
As Campers Arrive:





Provide campers and parents with a friendly greeting while standing.
Be a courteous and helpful representative of Camp Doublecreek.
If parents will have questions, please ask them to call the office at 512-255-3661 or send
an email to camp to: [email protected].
If parents want to add a contact person to the driver’s license list, use paper in clipboard
-- have parents write a note and sign it.
If camper is leaving early that same day, the parents need to write a note and sign it.
[Note: Please tell parents that campers
must be picked up from camp by 3:00
pm]
PUP List




Circle “X” under the corresponding day as
each camper arrives.
When bus arrives, put campers on it as
soon as you have marked your list and
envelope. [Note: bus drivers need to be on
the bus before any camper boards.]
If a camper’s name is not on the list, call
Doublecreek immediately. If the office
personnel find they are indeed supposed
to be listed, add them to your list. [Note:
although this rarely happens—it may be
that they are not registered here and are
supposed to be at a different camp.]
Remind the office (Kim or Susan) about
added name(s) as soon as you arrive at
camp.
PUP Envelope (for lunch money, payments, paperwork and notes)
LUNCH MONEY





Only minis and first grade campers may give you their lunch money. It should be in an
envelope with their name and lunch order written on the outside.
Campers in second grade and above give their lunch money to their group counselors.
On your manila PUP envelope, write the date, name, grade, and the word “env” and put the
camper’s envelope inside the manila envelope.
If the camper hands you cash, write the date, name, amount of money and “lunch” and put
the cash in your manila envelope.
Please call these (lunch money for mini-campers and first graders) to the attention of the
office personnel.
39

You may need to assist second graders by showing them how to hang onto their money until
they get to camp.
Paperwork, Payments, and Notes
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Any camper can give you tuition money or notes.
You may also be given notes for other staff at
camp. Put these in your manila envelope and write
all the same information, but indicate “note.”
If the note is something we need to know early in
the day (i.e., leaving early, no swimming), please
tell the office as soon as you get to camp.
There may be times that parents of future campers
will drop-off paperwork or money to be applied to a
camp account. Please follow the above
procedures.
On the Bus:
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Situate yourself so you can see all the bus – one
counselor in the back and one in the middle. Your
job is to take care of the campers so the driver can
concentrate on his job.
Put young campers where they will be happy and not intimidated.
Maintain discipline.
Sing! Sing! Sing! This is the easiest way to accomplish both maintaining discipline and
having the campers enjoy the bus ride. [Note: See Doublecreek songbook.]
Safety Rules for the Bus:
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Campers are not allowed to:
o stand
o move around while the bus is in motion
o sit backwards in the seat
o yell out the windows
o put anything outside the bus – including arms, head, legs
o throw anything -- inside or outside the bus
o pick on other campers
Should you need to stand, be sure to stand behind front row of seats at the front of the bus.
Upon Arrival at Doublecreek:
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Place your clipboard on the shelf.
Place your envelope on the front desk.
Inform the office of:
o Any name added to your list.
o Any notes that require early attention (leaving early, swimming, etc.).
o Lunch money for Mini-campers or first graders in the envelope.
Mondays – Take your Arts & Crafts box to the Arts & Crafts building
PM Departure from Doublecreek
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Pick up your clipboard from the shelf after the last bell. If there is something on top of it (tshirts, bags, medicine, etc.), take that with you if it is for someone on your bus. If for some
reason it was put on the wrong clipboard, please let office staff know before you leave.
Each Friday, PUP counselors should pick up the Arts & Crafts box for your PUP for
grades 5 and above and hand out to the campers.
Standing at the door of your bus, call roll and watch that campers get on the bus. [Note: a
staff member must be on the bus prior to boarding any campers.]
Circle “X” under corresponding day for drop-off point
Do not let campers off the bus.
Tell your driver when all your campers are on the bus.
Notes for your campers at your PUP will be on your clipboard.
Please give notes and Arts & Craft items to the campers when they get on the bus, or on the
ride to the PU.P.
Upon arrival at your PUP:
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Stand just outside the bus door.
Tell your driver how many you have and have the driver count as campers get off.
When all your campers are off the bus and accounted for, tell the driver he/she may leave.
At the PUP:
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Campers are to stay with you in a designated place.
When each camper is picked up, make sure it is the camper’s parents or someone
authorized by the parent. You do this by checking the driver’s license of the person against
the list under camper’s name.
If the person is not listed, they may not leave with the child until you are authorized from
camp to release them (even if it is the parent).
You will tell the person that you are not allowed to release the child without authorization
and it will take just a few minutes until we can get this situation corrected.
You will call the office with the following information: camper’s name and person picking
up.
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Someone will call and let you know when you may release the child. In the meantime, you
have other campers to take care of.
Acknowledge the arrival of the parent and assist the camper in gathering all his/her
belongings, including notes and Arts & Crafts.
Color in the “X” on the corresponding day under drop-off.
Note who picks up camper next to the driver’s license on the list when camper is picked
up.
Foursquare is appropriate at some PUPs. Make very sure the game is safe: no balls in the
street, etc.
No gambling, trading cards, or other games allowed.
Campers may not go into buildings or interfere at the entrance to buildings.
Campers may not leave the PUP until an adult arrives to get them.
If you still have campers at 5:40 p.m., call the camp at 512-255-3661. You are entitled to
collect $5.00 from a parent for the first 5 minutes they are late and $1.00 for every minute
after. It is up to you to collect.
After all campers leave:
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Call camp to let the office know all campers have been picked up. [First week of working
PUP is exception, but you may be fined $1 per minute after 5:30 p.m. until you are
reached if you forget to call in.]
Get the 4-square ball.
Make sure there is no trash.
Bring to camp the next day anything a camper may have left.
PLEASE NOTE:
 Please limit your guest visits while at work (including pickup point.) We strongly
discourage others bringing you food or drink unless on your Birthday.
 Your dress and demeanor say “Doublecreek” to all who see you.
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BUS DRIVER POLICIES AND
PROCEDURES
SAFETY CHECKLIST PROCEDURE – (TO BE DONE BEFORE YOU DRIVE THE
BUS EACH TIME)!
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Check levels of the transmission, oil and radiator
Check air pressure in tires (visually is fine unless they appear low)
Check air pressure in brakes
Check your lights, including headlights & turn indicators
Make a visible once-over for obvious problems including:
windows, all parts (mirrors, etc.) are intact
broken/cracked
These checks need to be made every day before you move the bus from its location
to the pickup point or before you leave pickup point if you leave bus there overnight.
WEEKEND BEFORE BEGINNING OF CAMP WEEK
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You will receive an e-mail with the names for your pickup point(s).
You will need to print this list to use on Monday morning to check roll. This is
important to do as you never know what may happen on a Monday morning and you
would need the list.
MORNING PROCEDURE
1. Arrive at your first pickup point by 7:25 am.
2. Campers will be put on the bus as they arrive. You will need to have at least one staff
on the bus while pickup point counselors check in arriving campers.
3. PUP counselors will let you know when it is safe to depart PUP.
ON THE W AY TO C AMP:
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Safety first! You are the captain -- concentrate on driving.
Ask PUP counselors for any help you need including correcting distractions.
Once you have started for camp, do not stop the bus for late arrivals to board, no
matter how persistent parents are.
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ARRIVAL AT CAMP:
1. Stop your bus far enough around the circle so other buses can pull in behind you.
2. Unloading your bus should be systematic – front to back. On Mondays, unload by
grade, with Mini-campers getting off the bus first.
3. After everyone has gotten off your bus, walk thru your bus front to back to check for
campers or belongings.
DEPARTURE FROM CAMP:
1. Your bus will be brought to the circle drive during the last period
2. You need to board the bus to maintain discipline while PUP counselor is checking roll.
3. A staff member will determine if all campers are accounted for and tell you when your bus
can depart the campus before the bus leaves the circle drive.
AFTERNOON PUP PROCEDURE:
1. Ask counselor “how many?” and count as they get off the bus
2. Leave the PUP only after counselor has assured you the children are safely off bus
3. Walk thru your bus from front to back to make sure everything (and everyone!) Is off the
bus. (Campers do fall asleep on the ride home.)
LEAVING YOUR BUS AT NIGHT:
1. Park the bus at designated spot.
2. Close windows.
3. Check each seat for anything left on bus – especially sleeping campers!
4. Turn off lights.
5. Turn off ignition and put gear in “D.” (This is a safety feature.)
To Quote Previous Bus Drivers
(While Unloading):
• “Take your time. There’s plenty of
room outside. If you’ve passed a seat
with someone in it, you’ve gone too
far.” (The campers have heard the last
four words so often they say it with
you.)
• “Watch your step, please, watch your
step. We don’t want you to fall and
break you clavicle (femur, tibia, etc.).”
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WORKING WITH DIFFICULT PARENTS
P ARTNERING WITH OVERWHELMED, ANXIOUS, BOSSY, DEFIANT , AND UNHAPPY
CAREGIVERS
Partnering with even the most difficult parents has the twin benefits of improving the
quality of the camp -- experience for children and promoting your professional
development. Rather than shy away from some of the leadership, policy, and customer
service challenges that some parents bring to camp, strive to be a combination of
interested, calm, patient, understanding, kind, realistic, practical, strong, respectful, and
collaborative.
Gee, that sounds great; but good luck keeping your cool with a high-strung or angry parent
in your face. Truth is, keeping your cool, setting limits, and spontaneous problem-solving
all take practice. It is best to first apologize, empathize, and then ask a question. Here are
some helpful sentence stems to get you unstuck when you’re in a tough spot with a difficult
parent.
Sentences to get you unstuck in a difficult conversation:
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“This is a difficult situation, but I want to help find a solution. Here are some options
to think about.”
“That’s a good question. Let me consult with one of my colleagues over here and I’ll
be back in a minute.”
“There’s a lot going on today and it can feel really overwhelming. Let’s take this one
step at a time.”
“I understand what you want, but I’m in a bind about what to do, given the camp’s
policy.”
“I can explain why the rule is set up that way and perhaps we can think together
about next steps.”
“Thank you for telling me about this problem. Let me find out a bit more and get
back to you right away.”
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CAMPER RULES AND PROCEDURES
CO-ED CONTACT:
Camper contact with opposite sex is permissible if and only if, the conduct is casual (i.e.,
little hug, brief squeeze, etc.) and consensual between the campers. What is not permitted
is holding hands, arm-in-arm, extended hugging, kissing or “girlfriend/boyfriend” behavior.
Please refer to information provided by Praesidium, Inc. in the online modules each staff
member is required to complete for detailed information.
There are separate dressing areas for girls and boys. The dressing areas are also divided
by age and group. Campers are only allowed in (or around) their assigned dressing room.
Never allow a camera in a dressing room or restroom.
POOL RULES:
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No jumping in the pool – Sit on edge and slide in
No swimming in pit – Dive off board and swim to edge
No double bouncing on board
No hanging on ropes
No running
No food or drink inside fence
HORSEBACK RULES:
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Walk – do not run
Use a calm voice -- Do not yell
Do not walk behind a horse
Stay alert -- Listen to your Instructor
Do not tailgate
Use your position: Toes up, Reins low, Knees in, Sit up straight
Wear proper attire
Do not talk to riders
1. The gun is a weapon and must be treated as loaded at all times
2. Barrel of gun may be pointed down range or at the ground. NEVER at a person
or towards groups of persons (like the pool).
3. ONLY Counselors can load BB’s into the loading door of gun.
4. Leave safety on until gun is pointed down range and counselor give instructions
to release.
5. ONLY fire on command.
6. Never pick up or play with a loaded gun at camp or outside of camp!
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FARMERS AND RANCHERS
Doublecreek campers Minis through 4th grade are assigned to be either a Farmer or a
Rancher. Counselors are the Indians. Each Monday, group counselors will assign new
campers to whichever group will even up the sides. Former campers may want to be what
they were last week or last year. Since counselors are not on either “team” they cannot
show partiality; they cannot play on either team. (Note: However, a little finagling to help a
team that is losing big is acceptable - if the campers don’t notice).
MERITS
The object of farmers and ranchers is for campers to obtain the most points per team to get
a head start on finding money in the pool during Nickel Dive. Merits are awarded as follows:
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Picking up drink cans—50 merits
Picking up trash—50 merits
Neat dressing room (clothes not on the floor)—100 merits
Speed in changing clothes—100 merits
Good attitude---a bunch!!!
Good manners, cooperation, helpfulness (your discretion)
Competition (Your discretion – be reasonable)
DEMERITS
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Throwing down drink can—100 demerits
Throwing down trash—100 demerits
Clothes on the floor—100 demerits
Non-cooperation—100 demerits
Cursing—500 demerits
Slow speed in changing clothes —100 demerits
Not respecting the rights and property of others---500 demerits (Includes
“messing” with the bags in the dressing room)
“Picking on”/Bullying or intimidating other campers--100-1000 demerits
Poor attitude—100 demerits
Absence from group without permission—500 demerits
Not arriving in time more than once to get snack cards or lunch—100 demerits
TIPS:
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Please record merits and demerits on office chart. Many times peer pressure can
help.
Announce the merits before a game or event begins and make sure both sides
are given equal opportunity to earn the merits.
Tell the group when someone gets merits.
Please be careful not to embarrass a camper. Try to “accentuate the positive” by
emphasizing the merits.
Merits pay dividends on the 4th week leading to nickel dive.
BOYS VS. GIRLS
Doublecreek campers who are going into the 5th and 6th grades in the Fall are divided into
their gender groups and compete over the course of several challenges to gain points.
Doublecreek campers who are going into the grades 7 and above in the Fall strive to
achieve certain skill levels for five different activities, including: fitness, archery, miniature
golf, tennis, etc.
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