Parent FAQ

We have a cottage. Why should my son go to camp?

In addition to life at a cottage, we feel that an experience in Camp can offer a great deal to a child, for it is a valuable experience in group living. Working with a group of peers, a boy learns to become more independent, responsible, tolerant, understanding and co-operative -traits which cannot be developed to the same degree at a summer cottage. Also at Camp, while increasing his skills in the various activities, a young boy, either working alone or with his peers and leaders, gains more of an insight into his own strengths and weaknesses. At Camp he has an opportunity to build a better sense of sportsmanship while gaining confidence and assurance in himself without the constant presence of his parents - for surely it is the aim of all parents to guide their son toward becoming a strong, independent human being.

How many campers are in a group?

The Camp is divided into five sections and within each section there are groups of 8 campers. A counselor and a L.l.T. (Leader-In-Training) live in the same cabin as the campers.

Is there much homesickness?

Actually there is less homesickness than one would imagine, for as soon as a boy arrives in Camp he is very quickly involved with his group and the program. Naturally, it is expected that there might be the odd occasion of homesickness for this is normal and human, but in the majority of cases, we find that such instances cover a very short period of time. For some, the first night in strange surroundings and a new environment might be very difficult, but the Counselors will naturally be with the group at all times, doing their utmost to help ease a new boy into the regular routine of Camp. If however, homesickness continues for more than a day or so, the matter is brought to the attention of the Director and he and the Section Director and the Counselor work together with the boy in helping him overcome his unhappiness. Very rarely have we had instances of homesickness in which we have recommended that the boy return home before the end of the period.

How is the program organized?

For the first three and half weeks of each month, the groups generally work together and go as a group to the various activities. This means that every individual is encouraged to try all of the activities and not just spend the majority of the time on one or two of his "favorites". However, in order to ensure that each boy does get an opportunity to pursue his own individual interests, there are times each week which are left "open" so that the boy can do exactly as he pleases. In addition to the regular planned program of Camp, there are many special activities such as campfires, sports games, regattas, athletic challenges, etc., which occur throughout the month. The evening program is also quite varied. While some campers become involved with their group in a challenge, others might prefer to spend some time pursuing their own interests - or just taking a few moments to relax and be by themselves.

Is Sunday program different?

Kilcoo is a nondenominational Camp and has campers and staff from a variety of religions. On Sunday, a Chapel service is held at "Chapel Point" and inspirational messages are given by our staff and campers. "Chapel Point" has, in fact, become a meaningful spot for thousands of young men over the years. It is a place away from the busy pace of Camp life in a beautiful rocky setting and is one retreat in Camp where friends can meet and talk; where those with differences can sit by the water's edge and discuss their misunderstandings; and above all, a place where a Counselor and Camper can meet together as two human beings. Sunday's are also when we have a camp wide game in the afternoon. Please see the Specialevents for details. In the evening, we cap off our day with a nights of skits, songs, and music with our Kilabaloo, a huge variety show of all the talent at Kilcoo. Anyone is welcome to participate.

When is the Camp uniform worn?

The Camp uniform is usually worn only on Sundays, and on special occasions. Although we ask each camper to be reasonably neat and tidy, we do not recommend buying many new clothes. In fact, summer is the time when old clothes can be "worn out". However, EVERY ARTICLE of clothing should be clearly labeled with the boy's name.

How old are your staff members?

The majority of our counselors are between the ages of 18 and 22 and are, in most cases, University students. Many of them have gone through, and successfully completed, a two-year program as Leaders-in-Training. The continuity of staff members, therefore, is very gratifying. In addition to Group Counselors, Section Directors, Waterfront Director and Program Director, we also have 5 Swimming Instructors, 4 Canoeing, Kayaking and Windsurfing Instructors, 3 Crafts Instructors, 2 Sailing Instructors,6 Campcraft and Tripping Instructors, 6 Outward Challenge Leaders as well as instructors for Mountain Biking, Archery and Tennis. We also have three Directors for our L.l.T. program.

What is the Camp's policy on lifejackets?

Every camper must bring his own government approved lifejacket to Camp as it is important that each jacket fit the individual. All non-swimmers must wear their jackets when in watercraft of any type. Every camper and staff member must take his jacket with him when going on a canoe or sail trip, and have it readily available in the event of rough weather.

What is your policy regarding non-swimmers?

Naturally, as many of our activities centre around the Waterfront, we are anxious that every boy at Kilcoo learn to swim - and feel comfortable and "at home" in the water. For some, overcoming this initial fear is a big task and the instruction therefore must be done with patience and understanding - and when advisable, on an individual basis. Each camper is tested when he arrives at Camp to determine his ability. Non-swimmers are permitted in canoes and sailboats, but only under extremely careful supervision - with a lifejacket - and with the activity instructor himself. From the first day of Camp, all campers - swimmers and non-swimmers - are given details of safety precautions on the Waterfront. There is no swimming by anyone after dark and no one is allowed on the Waterfront unless the Lifeguards are on duty.

What is your policy regarding the tuck shop?

The tuck shop is open at specified times, 2 times per week. The boys are permitted to buy only two items from an assortment of pop, ice cream, candy and potato chips. All accounts will be billed to the parents at the end of the summer. In addition to the above supplies, the tuck shop also stocks essentials such as tooth brushes, batteries, writing paper, stamps, pens, etc. A BOY NEEDS NO MONEY AT CAMP.

Do the majority of campers use sleeping bags or blankets?

The majority of campers and staff use sleeping bags. If possible, it helps keep the bag cleaner if it has a washable liner on the inside. Sleeping bags are easier to pack for canoe trips and can be aired out more conveniently during cabin cleanup each morning.

What are you procedures in the event of accidents or illness?

In the event of an accident, our resident medical staff will advise the Director as to what course of action should be taken. If the accident is one of a minor nature, we will carry through with the necessary action. If, on the other hand, the accident is a serious one, the Director in consultation with the medical staff will get in touch with the family immediately. It is to be expected that many boys will, at one time or another during the summer, visit the infirmary with the usual minor cuts, rashes, sores, running noses, colds, etc. These will be treated by our medical staff. If, however, a boy is in the infirmary for an extended period of time, we will get in touch with his parents and advise them of the progress being made. For those campers requiring medicine and allergy shots, we ask that all such medications be kept in the infirmary. The Nurse will be responsible for contacting each camper to advise him as to when he should visit the infirmary for a shot or medication. On arrival at Camp, each boy is given a physical examination by the medical staff.

What is your policy on letters, parcels, etc.?

We strongly encourage all campers to write home regularly and hope that parents will write in turn to their children. Because of possible illness and over-indulgence, we ask that parents and friends co-operate by NOT sending or bringing ANY food, candy, pop etc. to Camp.

What is your policy regarding visiting parents?

A special day for parents is planned once a month. This is the only occasion when parents are encouraged to visit Kilcoo, at which time they will have an opportunity of seeing the Camp, visiting with their son, and talking with their boy's Counselor and Leaders.

Do all boys go on canoe trips?

Yes. Depending on the age and ability of the campers, each group will at sometime during the month, leave Camp on a canoe trip or extended hike. Such trips are arranged after consultation with the campers, the Counselors, Section Directors and Tripping staff. For more information on tripping, click here.

If we haven’t answered your question here, please feel free to contact us.