It's exciting getting ready to go to camp. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you have the best camp experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a 4/5-year-old. How do I register them for camp?
Please contact ccareadmin@ymcahbb.ca for more information regarding our Kinder Connections program.
How do I find the right program for my child (aged 6-15)?
Check out our 2024 Summer Day Camp Field Guide for an overview of each program we offer. If you are still unsure, you can email hamburl.daycamps@ymcahbb.ca for assistance.
Do you offer 1:1 support during camp?
Yes. Please waitlist your child for our Helping Hands program when registering. If space is available, a member of our Inclusion Services for Children will contact you to complete an intake for your child.
Do you provide extended hours?
Yes. Camp runs from 9am - 4pm. Extended Care runs an additional 2 hours before/after camp (7am - 9am and 4pm - 6pm) at an additional cost. Additional details can be found on page 18 of the Field Guide.
Is there busing available?
Yes, busing is available for our outdoor programs at Christie Lake Conservation Area. You can view our bus schedule on pages 21-22 of the Field Guide.
What do I do if my child is going to be absent?
Email the Day Camp Office at hamburl.daycamps@ymcahbb.ca or call at 905-317-4929.
Who do I contact if I will be late dropping off or need to pick my child up early?
Contact the email address listed in the weekly newsletter. Staff will make note and alert your camper’s counsellor(s).
Who can pick up my child? Can my child sign themselves out?
Only individuals 16+ listed as an Authorized Pick-Up during the registration process will be permitted to sign campers out. Authorized pick-ups including parents/caregivers will be required to show valid, government-issued photo ID daily.
What happens if my child is not picked up on time?
A Late Fee of $20/child will be applied to your account for every 30 minutes late (or part thereof). If you encounter an emergency situation and are unable to pick up your child as planned, please let us know by calling the Day Camp Office at 905-317-4929.
Am I allowed to visit my child during the program?
For the safety of everyone involved, visitors are not permitted inside the program.
Can my child be grouped with a friend?
Yes. Please add the child’s name and age to the Grouping Requests section of the Camper Information Form when registering. Groupings are not guaranteed; however, we will do our best to accommodate. *Note: Children must be similar in age.
What happens if it rains or is very hot at Christie Lake?
Pavilion shelters are available in the event of rain, and planned activities will be modified. Frequent breaks and additional water-based activities are scheduled in the event of extreme heat.
How will the staff communicate with me?
The YMCA will send out a weekly newsletter to all families the Thursday before indicating what to expect for the coming week of camp. Should we need to reach you in case of an emergency, we will contact the phone number listed on your camp account. If we are not able to reach you, we will email you and do our best to connect with one of the listed Emergency Contacts for your child.
Do you have a Lost and Found?
Yes. Please reach out to the email address listed in your weekly newsletter with your child’s name and a description of the item(s) you are missing. You can arrange with our staff when to pick up any found items. If your child takes the bus, we will do our best to send any found items with them on the ride home. After two weeks, all unclaimed items will be given to donations.
Will lunch be provided?
No. Please pack a lunch for your child. Children will not have access to a microwave or refrigerator. Please do not send items that need to be heated up. Sharing of food will not be permitted. All items must be nut-free.
What should my child bring in their backpack?
- A litter less and nutritious lunch and snacks that will fuel them for an active day
- A reusable water bottle
- A hat
- A light jacket
- A bathing suit and towel or change of clothes for swimming
- Running shoes and appropriate clothing for physical activity and the weather
- Sunscreen/bug spray* (recommended for outdoor programming at Christie Lake)
How do I make changes to my child’s registration?
Please email hamburl.daycamps@ymcahbb.ca with any changes, including your child’s name and the required change. If you are attending a camp at Laurier Brantford YMCA, please email laurierbrantford.camps@ymcahbb.ca with any changes. All changes must be submitted a minimum of 10 days in advance by email. No other method of communication will be accepted.
The YMCA offers one complimentary to your child’s enrollment. A $30 Administration Fee will be applied per child for any additional changes.
What is the cancellation/refund policy?
Any refunds requested after May 14th, 2024 will be subject to a $30 Administration Fee (per camper). No refunds or cancellations will be accepted if less than 10 business days are given.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes. Our donors make this possible. If you are looking for financial assistance for 1-2 weeks of camp, book an online Financial Assistance appointment here. If you are looking for financial assistance for the full summer, please contact your local subsidy region.
- City of Hamilton – 905.546.4870
- Region of Halton – 905.825.6000
- City of Brantford – 519.756.3150
Who do I contact if I have a compliment, concern, or complaint?
Please email the Day Camp Office at hamburl.daycamps@ymcahbb.ca. The administrator will direct you to the appropriate Coordinator or Supervisor.
