Camp Bonnie Brae - Girl Scouts of Central and Western ...

ABOUT OUR STAFF
Camp staff members are selected because of their experiences and their
interest in working with children in the outdoors. Staff members are selected
through rigorous processes of: application, interview, background check, and
reference evaluation, in an effort to secure the most qualified and capable role
models for our campers. Staff members participate in pre-camp training
designed to prepare them for their specific roles in camp. Staff members
review camper needs, program skills, leadership, communication, emergency,
and safety procedures during training. Specialty staff members have
certifications and experiences that make them qualified for the job.
BUG SPRAYS, DEET, WEST NILE VIRUS
AND LYME DISEASE
With the emergence of the West Nile Virus and the rise of Lyme disease, an
effective insect repellent – something that prevents bug bites and, thus,
interrupts the chain of infection – is a desired option. DEET is the most
effective mosquito repellent currently available. It is available in many
different formulas and has an excellent safety profile. Products containing
10 – 30 percent DEET are considered sufficient. Manufacturer’s recommendations
should be followed for periodic reapplication of the repellent.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently reexamined their
recommendations on the use of insect repellents that contain DEET. While
reports of ill effects from DEET are rare, its use has been associated with skin
rashes, respiratory irritation, and seizures. The AAP recommends that
repellents containing no more than 30 percent DEET be used on children.
Products with lower concentrations can be used for children if families are
concerned about the potential risks of DEET and there is little or no concern
about the transmission of mosquito-born diseases.
Bug repellent can be applied to skin, clothing, bedrolls, and screens. When
possible, wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when outdoors. Mosquitoes
may bite through thin clothing, so spraying clothes with repellents containing
DEET will give extra protection. Do not spray repellent containing DEET on the
skin under your clothing. Don't use scented soap, perfume or hair spray on
your child. Avoid dressing your child in bright colors or flowery prints.
For more information, contact your own pediatrician, or Center for
Disease Control: www.cdc.gov or call 1-888-246-2675, or American Academy
of Pediatrics: www.aap.org.
Camp Bonnie Brae
2013 DAY CAMP INFORMATION BOOKLET
WELCOME! Your camper is registered for Day Camp!
The enclosed information will help to prepare both of
you for a wonderful camp experience.
You have made a great decision to provide your
camper with an enriching summer experience. With
the supervision of our experienced, enthusiastic staff,
Girl Scout Camp provides girls with new experiences,
friends, and the courage, confidence, and character
to make the world a better place.
OPEN HOUSE!
Plan to attend the camp Open House on April 14 or
June 2 from noon to 3pm. This is a GREAT opportunity
to visit the camp, meet the camp director and get answers
to your questions. Make sure you RSVP by calling
1-800-462-9100 or 413-584-2602.
CAMP CONTACT INFORMATION
Camp Bonnie Brae (summer only)
# 413-269
269-4481
951 Algerie Rd, East Otis, MA 01029
(Note: This is not the mailing address)
Questions about your camper’s registration?
Contact: 800-462-9100 (in MA) or 413-584-2602
Questions about your camper’s program?
Contact: 800-462-9100 (in MA) x4023 or 413-224-4023
Or email styrrell@gscwm.org

CAMP LIFE
Day camp provides campers the opportunity to live, work and play with a community
of their peers in a safe and supportive environment. Campers are grouped by
age. Each small group is assigned an adult staff member and paired with 1-2 other
small groups for some activities. The “buddy system” is utilized both for camp
safety and to help campers meet and interact with all of the girls in her unit .
PREPARING FOR SUMMER CAMP
Camp is an exciting adventure, full of new experiences, friends and fun! As with
any new experience, it is normal for some campers (and parents too) to feel a little
anxious as they prepare for summer camp.
GETTING READY FOR CAMP!
There are a few other things that you can do to make certain that your camper is
ready for the fun of summer:
• Review the camp brochure. Look at the pictures. Talk about what the campers
are doing and what your camper might do this summer.
• Plan to attend the Open House.
• Review the “What to Bring” list. Make sure that your camper helps to prepare
things for camp. It is important that she knows what she is bringing, and how
to use it.
• Prepare your camper by telling her how excited you are for her. Use positive
messages when discussing camp and avoid negative phrases.
STAYING HEALTHY AT CAMP
Camper health and safety are important to our staff. Girls will receive
orientation to the camp site and safety rules at camp. A health center is maintained
to monitor our health care program, administer medications, and to provide
routine or emergency care.
MEDICATIONS AT CAMP
All medications sent to camp must be in their original container and listed on the
health form. Over-the-counter medications need not be sent to camp as the
Health Center is stocked to meet common needs. All medications will be kept by
the Health Care Supervisor in the Health Center while at camp, or in the controlled
possession of a staff member. Over-the-counter medications will be administered
for routine illness/injury unless their use is restricted as noted on the camp
health form.
MEALS AND SNACKS
LUNCHES: Campers at Bonnie Brae are provided a nutritious, kid-friendly
lunch prepared by our food service as well as a snack each day. Campers
should not bring food.
SNACKS FOR THE BUS: Food is NOT allowed to be eaten on the buses.
This is a safety precaution required by the bus company.
SPECIAL DIETARY NEEDS: Campers with special dietary requirements
should indicate restrictions on the Updated Health Information Form.
Dietary requirements can generally be accommodated, however,
depending on the nature of the restriction, a camper may be asked to
provide some of her own special foods.
STANDARDS AND
REGULATIONS
Camp Bonnie Brae complies with
Regulations of the Massachusetts
Department of Public Health (105 CMR
430) and is licensed by the Otis Board of
Health. Information on these regulations
c a n b e o b t a i n e d a t
617-983-6761. Parents/guardians may
request acknowledgement of staff
background checks, and policies on
health care and discipline as allowed by
law. Camp Bonnie Brae is also accredited
by the American Camp Association.
CAMPER BEHAVIOR
Girl Scout camp provides a unique opportunity for campers and staff to work
together as a community. It is important that all campers follow camp rules. If
camper behavior at camp or on the bus becomes a problem, parents/
guardians will be contacted for their support in resolving the situation. Any
camper who consistently exhibits unsuitable behavior may be sent home
without a refund.
SPECIAL NEEDS
Please contact Stacy Tyrrell, CBB
Director at 800-462-9100 (in MA) or
413-584-2602 x4023 if you have any
concerns or questions regarding the
nature of the camp experience or its
appropriateness for your camper. Parents
of campers with physical, mental,
or emotional needs should also contact
Stacy so that together we can
e n s u r e t h e b e s t
experience for your camper. All
special needs should also be noted on
MORE INFORMATION
Copies of our policies on background checks, health care, and disciplinary matters
are available upon request. Please contact camp@gscwm.org with requests or to
file any grievances.

WHAT TO BRING
Camp is a great place for old clothes. Campers are most comfortable in simple
play clothes that they can get dirty. Rain gear must be included, and shoes and
socks are required. Please mark all personal belongings with your camper’s
name!
LOST AND FOUND
GSCWM cannot be responsible for camper property. Lost and found items
will be held until August 31 and then will be donated to a charitable organization.
If something is forgotten, please call camp within five days of the camp
session.
HELPFUL HINT:
BRING/WEAR DAILY
___ Shirt (no halter tops)
___ Pants or Shorts as appropriate
___ Sturdy Closed-Toe Shoes
___ Socks
___ Hat
___ Day Pack or Bag Containing:
__ Swimsuit (Must provide
full coverage. No string bikinis.)
__Towel
__ Raincoat or poncho
__ Water Bottle
__ Sunscreen (non-aerosol)
__Insect Repellent (non-aerosol)
OPTIONAL ITEMS
___ Water shoes (no flip flops, please)
___ Sweatshirt for cooler days
We’ve heard from parents
that it’s a good idea to send
a plastic grocery bag to
camp with your child. She
can then put her wet
swimsuit and towel into it
for the ride home!
PLEASE DO NOT BRING/SEND
• Food
• Cell Phones
• Video Games/Personal Electronics
• Money/Valuables
Weapons, alcohol and illegal drugs are
not permitted on the camp site.
Campers may not bring personal vehicles
without written parental permission.
ATTITUDES TO BRING TO CAMP
Here is a “packing list” of attitudes for campers, which will help them to really
prepare for a successful time at camp!
HEALTH SUPERVISION AND PARENT NOTIFICATION OF ILLNESS
Our Health Care Supervisor works in consultation with a written Health Care Plan
and Standing Orders approved by the camp doctor. The doctor is also available to
consult as needed. The Health Care Supervisor is trained in First Aid and CPR.
Counselors and Lifeguards are First Aid Certified and provide First Aid for minor
cuts and bruises. All other health concerns are brought to the Health Center
where the Health Care Supervisor will determine medical attention needed and
contact parents if necessary. Every effort will be made to establish phone contact
with parents/guardians in an emergency. It is also general camp practice to contact
parents/guardians when there is concern about a camper’s health and/or
when a situation is not progressing as expected.
Our Health Center is not equipped to care for campers who are injured or ill.
Should your camper become sick at camp, has a temperature of 100.4° or higher,
or sustains an injury requiring professional medical evaluation, you will be contacted
to pick her up from camp. Campers should not be sent to camp if ill or
“coming down with something."
KEEPING HEALTHY
Keeping healthy at camp is, in part, the responsibility of each camper and parent.
Please review the following with your camper prior to camp:
• Drink Fluids. It is important that girls drink a lot of water each day. Campers
should drink fluids at each meal and carry a water bottle with them throughout
the day.
• Eat Well. Each day should start with a substantial breakfast. Campers at Bonnie
Brae are provided a nutritious, kid-friendly lunch prepared by our food service
as well as a snack each day. Campers should not bring food.
• Sun Protection. Campers are outdoors all day and will see a lot of sunshine.
Please provide your camper with sunscreen and show her how to use it. Instruct
her to reapply sunscreen several times a day, including after she goes
swimming. A wide-brimmed or billed hat will also help to protect her face.
• Insect Protection. It is important that girls bring insect repellent. Bug bites are
a part of camp, but can be decreased by using a good quality repellent. See
last page for additional information on bug sprays.
*Please apply both sunscreen and insect repellant before dropping your
camper off each day. She will be instructed by her camp counselor to reapply
throughout the day.
___ Expect camp to be a new experience.
___ Be ready to be a friend and you will make friends!
___ Be prepared to expect the unexpected and to see it
as a fun surprise!
___ For Returning Campers: Remember that each year is
different with new friends, special programs, and different
counselors.

CAMPER RELEASE PASSWORD
A Camper Release Password is i
required for every camper. This password,
chosen by you, serves as authorization to release your camper. Campers will
only be released to someone who knows your password. Your password is
printed on the enclosed invoice. Please give this word only to the person
coming to pick up your camper. This password is required whether you
transport your camper or they ride the bus. Your camper does not need to
know the password.
GETTING TO CAMP BY CAR
Camp Bonnie Brae is located at 951 Algerie Rd. East Otis, MA
From Springfield:
Take I-91 North just past Downtown Springfield to exit 9B (Route 20). Follow Route 20
West through Westfield. In the center of Westfield, Route 20 makes a right turn. Continue
to follow Route 20- you will pass under I-90 and come to the top of a large hill. At
the flashing yellow light turn left onto Route 23 West (Blanford/Otis). Continue on Route
23 for 11.3 miles to Algerie Rd (which is just after a sign for “The Clayground”). There will
be a green and white Camp Bonnie Brae sign on your right. (If you pass the "Entering East
Otis" sign, you have missed the turn). Turn right onto Algerie Road. Camp Bonnie Brae is
a little less than two miles on your left (951 Algerie Rd).
From New York (and other points west):
From the Mass Pike take Exit 2 (Lee exit) to Route 20 East (Jacobs Ladder Rd). Continue
on Route 20 East into West Becket. At the Jacobs Ladder (Route 20/8)/Otis Rd (Route
8) split in West Becket, follow Otis Rd (Route 8 South). Follow Route 8 South into the
town of Otis. Turn left on Route 23 East. Continue on Route 23 to the Town of East Otis.
Go approximately one-half mile out of town Take a left onto Algerie Rd. Camp Bonnie
Brae is a little less than two miles down on your left (951 Algerie Rd).
From Northampton:
From I-91 South, get on Mass Pike I-90 West. Take Exit 3 (Westfield exit) to Route 202
South to Westfield Center. In the center of Westfield, Route 20 makes a right turn. Continue
to follow Route 20- you will pass under I-90 and come to the top of a large hill. At
the flashing yellow light turn left onto Route 23 West (Blanford/Otis). Continue on Route
23 for 11.3 miles to Algerie Rd (which is just after a sign for “The Clayground”). There will
be a green and white Camp Bonnie Brae sign on your right. (If you pass the "Entering East
Otis" sign, you have missed the turn!) Turn right onto Algerie Road. Camp Bonnie Brae is
a little less than two miles on your left (951 Algerie Rd).
CAR PICK-UP/DROP
UP/DROP-OFF OFF PROCEDURES
• Campers are checked in and out daily by one of the persons indicated on the health
information form. Proper identification may be requested. This person must know the
Camper Release Password (see above).
• Arrival time is 8:50 - 9:00am.
• Pick-up time is 4:30pm.
• A waiting fee of $5 per 15 minutes is payable to the staff waiting
with campers after 4:45pm.
GETTING TO CAMP BY BUS
Your bus stop choice is identified on the attached invoice. Times are approximate
and dependent on traffic, weather and road conditions. Please plan accordingly. If
you’d like to change your bus stop, you can view a full listing of available stops on
the camp brochure. Notify the camp registrar (800-462-9100 or 413-584-2602)
of any changes at least two weeks in advance of the first day of camp. If there are
changes in the bus schedule, you will be notified by phone or mail, in advance.
Please arrive at least 5 minutes early for drop-off off and pick-up.
BUS SAFETY RULES
Please review the following with your camper prior to camp:
• Parents/guardians are responsible for supervision of their campers while
traveling to and from the bus and while waiting at the bus stop.
• Wait until the driver opens the bus door before approaching the bus.
• Remain seated while on the bus.
• Keep arms, legs, and possessions inside of the bus.
• When on the bus, speak or sing using your “inside” voice.
• Two camp counselors will be on every bus and will check in every camper. The
bus driver and camp counselors are in charge on the bus, please follow their
directions.
• If you need to cross the street when leaving the bus, please let the driver know
and cross in front of the bus.
BUS PICK-UP/DROP
UP/DROP-OFF OFF PROCEDURES
• Parents MUST NOT leave their camper unattended at the bus stop.
• Campers will only be released to the person who has proper identification and
knows the Camper Release Password.
• Girls will be allowed to walk home from the bus stop if a written note
giving permission is provided on the first day.
• Campers who are not picked up at their assigned stop will be taken to the last
stop where the bus counselor will initiate contact to the parent/guardian or
emergency contact and wait until someone authorized to pick up the camper
arrives. The police will be contacted if campers are not picked up or arrangements
for pick-up are not made within 30 minutes of the end of the bus run.
• A waiting fee will be charged at a rate of $5 per every 15 minutes and is
payable to the bus counselor.
CHANGES IN PICK-UP/DROP
UP/DROP-OFF OFF TIMES
Please allow a 20-minute window around pick-up and drop-off times. While the
bus company is committed to maintaining a rigorous transportation schedule,
situations will occasionally arise which will affect pick-up or drop-off times. If the
bus is to be late, every effort will be made to contact the parent/guardian listed at
the daytime phone number on the registration form to alert him/her of the delay.
Due to the potential volume of calls required, one call will be attempted to each
camper’s parent/guardian.