PURPOSE 

This rare opportunity provides children the unique experience of learning through one of the best U-picks farms in the Central Valley. Riverdance farms is situated in the picturesque lower section of the Merced River, which flows from the iconic Yosemite National Park. Using sustainable permaculture practices, the organic farm prides itself on only utilizing the existing ecosystem and its sustainable resources.

Camp Riverdance provides even the youngest of children the platform to explore and experience the natural and diverse habitats within Riverdance Farms. Through this hands-on learning experience students will become familiar with the delicate interconnected and interdependent balance of the natural world.

OUR GOAL

Camp Riverdance is for each student to become mindfully aware of the world around them. We envision that each student will realize how their contributions impact others, and choose to make the necessary changes to help lessen the ecological footprint.

OUR VALUE

Our value is placed in the respect for all living things. Our inclusive, unique, hands on learning model fosters the natural love of learning in every student.

Parent involvement is highly encouraged. If you have any suggestions, please contact the Summer Camp director, Kathina Calip (209) 314-5442 

CAMP STRUCTURE Camp Riverdance offers weekly sessions that run from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Campers’ ages range from 3 to 14 years old. The ratio of staff to child is 1:10, but typically groups average 3:10. Each week will include a theme that provides structure and focus for activities during that particular week. Activities include recreational games, arts and crafts and other creative outlets. Spaces in each age group are limited.

Toddler Day Camp  is run cuncurrant with traditionall day camp from 9 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Monday through Thursday. Toddler day camp is for children younger than 3 years of age or not potty trained. Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian 18 years or older.Parents should contact Camp Director Kathina Calip at: 209-314-5442 for information regarding Toddler Day Camp.

Deadline: All registration forms must be completely filled out in all applicable areas and submitted no later than July 2nd, regardless of which weeks your child is attending.               

Camp Days & Hours:

July 12 - August 5th.          9am - 1pm           Monday - Thursday

2021 Themes & Pricing

Week 1	The Physics Factory	July 12 - 15	$125
Week 2	Survival Camp	July 19 - 22	$125
Week 3	Farm to Table (cooking)	July 26 - 29	$125
Week 4	Music & Nature	Agu. 2 - 5	$125

 

 

PARENT COMMUNICATION

Camp Riverdance utalizes the app "REMIND." which provides a quick and convieniant way for parents and camp director to communicate. Remind is a safe, communication platrom that helps the camp director reach parents via direct messaging. Parents are also able to quckly send and respond via direct messages to our camp director. Upon registration parents will be given the option to sign up with Remind. 

EMERGENCY CALLS

1.      Camp Director       (209) 314-5442

2.      Riverdance Farms  (209) 761-0081

 

DROP-OFF and PICK-UP 

Prior to drop off parents are sent a "remind text" with a series of Covid-19 screening questions, parents should respond prior to student drop off. Upon drop off each child and their parent if applicable will be asked screening questions if they have not already replied via "remind text", and they will go to their respectable location. If someone on your pick-up list will be picking up your child, they will be asked to show picture identification. Camp Riverdance cannot withhold a child from a biological or custodial parent without legal documentation (i.e. court orders, custody papers, etc.) 

Late Pick Up Policy 

All summer campers should be picked up by 1:00 pm. Parents, who are late due to unforeseen circumstances (please call), will be issued a verbal warning. To avoid situations like these, we encourage parents to have a backup plan that would allow their child/children (with prior approval) to go home with a neighboring parent or a relative listed as authorized to pick up your child from the facility.

Violation of pick-up policy Late charge of $1.00 per child every minute beginning at 1:01 p.m.  3 Late pick-up's are grounds for dismissal from Camp Riverdance. Late charges are due no later than the end of the camp week in which the infraction occurs. Non-payment of late charges may result in suspension of the child/children from the program. We ask parents to be respectful and courteous regarding this policy.  If a child is left and we have not heard from a parent, or if a parent cannot be reached and no one is available to pick up your child, local police and or child protective services will be asked to come and transport that child to a safe location. 

ABSENCES

If your child is going to be absent from camp for the day, please call the camp director: Kathina Calip (209) 314-5442, or bring a note the day before. You may also email riverdanceadventure@gmail.com. Communication may also be sent via the Remind app.

SICK CHILD POLICY At Summer Day Camp, medical services are minimal. We stock only first aid medical supplies. Prior to drop off parents are sent a "remind text" with a series of Covid-19 screening questions, parents should respond prior to student drop off. Upon drop off each child and their parent if applicable will be asked screening questions if they have not already replied via "remind text" PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR SICK CHILD TO CAMP. This is inconsiderate and can spread an infection throughout the group and the camp. 

If a child exhibits signs of illness while at camp we will provide a location for isolation from the general population and notify you immediately to pick up your child.

Any child who exhibits any signs of illness or who has had any form of contagious illness, including but not limited to fever, vomiting, and diarrhea within the past 24 hours, will not be permitted to attend camp. In some cases, a medical release from your doctor may be required for re-admittance. Campers may return to camp afte 10 days symptom free or within 3 days with a doctors note, and are symptom free. 

MEDICATIONS Any medication to be administered must be in a prescription-labeled bottle and have a physician signed note stating the type of medication, frequency of dosage and amount to be given. A medication form must be on file. No exceptions will be made to this rule. It is in the best interest of your child to have any medications properly administered.

EMERGENCY  In the event of an emergency, understand that you will be notified of the situation as soon as practicable. The quickest way for us to relay important information in the event of an emergency is via the Remind app.

CONCERNS Any concerns or comments should be addressed with the Camp Director. 

 

PAYMENT POLICY 

Registration fee is $25.00 per child each week, due upon registration.  These deposits are non-refundable, non-transferable and are apart of the total camp fee, not an additional fee.  The full deposit for all registered camp weeks must accompany your registration form.  A camper will not be considered registered until all required registration fees have been received and processed. Registrations will be processed in order of receipt. All requests for registration changes must be completed and submitted by July 2nd, approved by the Camp Director, and are subject to availability. Any changes made by any other staff person without approval from the Camp Director will not be valid.

Cancellations after July 2nd. will result in a loss of all paid deposit(s) and may result in a loss of paid camp fees. All approved registration transfers of camp weeks after July 2nd. will result in a loss of all paid deposits and will also require new deposits for any added camp weeks. Full payment of weekly camp fees will be due at the time of a new registration or registration transfer if processed within 5 days of an added camp week.

All registration forms must be completely filled out in all applicable areas and submitted no later than July 2nd, regardless of which weeks your child is attending. If registering after July 2nd , all registration forms must be completed and submitted at the time of registration.

The full balance of weekly camp fees is always due 5 days prior to the first day of each camp week your child is attending. Failure to pay in full by the required payment due dates may result in the loss of your paid deposit(s), camp fees and your child’s spot in camp may be forfeited.

Late payments will be assessed a $15 processing fee per week, per family. Checks, money orders, and all major credit cards are accepted. Complete your tuition payment online: https://www.jotform.com/app/211748195584163

Returned Checks In the event of a "bounced check' you will be responsible for all bank charges incurred and will be required to pay in cash or direct debit from that time on. A returned payment fee of $25 will be added for all returned payments. If it becomes necessary for Camp Riverdance to resort to legal action to collect fees, the parent/guardian will be responsible for legal fees incurred on the camp's part. 

Discounts Balances paid in full for all 4 weeks of camp by July 2nd. will receive a 20% discount off the total amount of camp fees. Each sibling receives a 28% discount on weekly tuition fees. Children must attend the same weeks for discount to apply (Limit per 4 per family).

Credits will not be issued for any absences. Credits will only be issued for program closings due to severe weather or other facility closings where other arrangements have not or could not be made by the Camp Riverdance. 

 

CAMPER INFORMATION

Lunch & Snacks Campers will be provided a snack every day at camp. Lunches are to be braught from home. If your child decides to bring his/her own lunch and snacks, both should be clearly labeled with your child’s name.

Apparal Camp tee-shirts may be purchased for $12.00.

Clothing Ensure your child is appropriately attired for camp activities. have noted that all activities are conducted outside, in all kinds of weather. Send your child to camp with the appropriate equipment, such as rain gear, sturdy shoes, protective clothing, sunscreen, water bottles, etc. Further understand that equipment, clothing, backpacks, coolers, etc. will experience heavy wear and tear. Understand that both your child and their belongings may come home wet, dirty, muddy, and tired.

Personal Belongings Any personal items such as money, video games, toys, electronic devices, cell phones, trading cards, jewelry, and personal sporting equipment are not to be brought to camp. Riverdance Farms is not responsible for their loss or misplacement.

Supplies Understand that clothing, towels, shoes, coolers, swimsuits, and water bottles will be marked with the child’s name. Understand that Riverdance Farms is not responsible for their loss or misplacement.

Sunscreen/Insect Repellant It is the responsibility of the parent/ guardian to provide insect repellant and sunscreen for your child to use at camp. Do not expect Camp Riverdance to provide these items. Camp leaders will apply or assist with the application of the repellant and sunscreen, if provided. 

Swimming There will be a lifeguard on duty when my child is swimming and/or near the river participating in water activities. Your child will be asked to perform a swim test, if desired, to swim in the deep end of the river.

Photography Riverdance Farms staff may photograph or video record your child for Company promotional or onsite activity purposes. Without limitation, or obligation, any and all media, including photographs, film footage, or tape recordings, which may include you or your child's image or voice for purposes of art, advertising, education, or promotional purposes.  Understand it is your responsibility to notify Camp Rivedance Director if you do not want photos or video of your child to be used in this manner.

 

DISCIPLINE/BEHAVIOR

Rescpect and caring attitudes for oneself, others, the environment, and all life is necessary. We strive to provide an atmosphere which is conducive to safety and appropriate behavior while attending Summer Day Camp. Maintaining proper conduct while in the program is the joint responsibility of the children, parents and Summer Day Camp Staff. While on camp grounds parents are to refrain from using discipline methods that contradict Camp Riverdance's behavioral approach. 

We keep each other’s safety in mind at all times. Discipline problems will not be tolerated. Camp Riverdance reserves the right to dismiss any camp participant for inappropriate, disrespectful, or dangerous behavior at any time. No refunds will be given if a child is dismissed for disciplinary action.

Recreation staff and the Camp Director, will handle discipline. The use of abusive or corporal punishment is not allowed. The method used is time-out and a reflection of behavior sheet is filled out by older campers, those with the ability to read and write.

Time-out is when a child is given time away from an activity, peers, etc., to think about his/her inappropriate behavior and try to develop a positive manner in which to deal with the situation. Time-out is 1 minute per age. Example: If the child is age 4, time-out is 4 minutes. The behavior reflection sheet is utalized for those campers whom are able to read/write and therefore have the ability to "think" critically about their behavior. They will 'think" about the rule they have broken, why they made the decision to do so and how they will correct their behavior as to not repeat the same behavior again. Campers must then discuss privately thier written reflection with a staff member, preferabally, with the staff member who witnessed the infraction. Our staff member will, if necessary, help the camper to complete the reflection form and or help your camper to carry out a desired action of their choosing that will help to solidify thier behavior change. 

No Weapons Policy  A child will be expelled from Day Camp if he/she is found to be in the possession of knives, kitchen cutlery, guns, pocket knives, or weapon of any sort. 

Physical or Verbal Threats  A child may be expelled if the parent/guardian, any member of my family or my child verbally or physically threatens another camper or staff.

Property Damage  If your child breaks or damages any property as a result of their direct or indirect behavior, parents/guardians are to pay for its repair or replacement.

STUDENT SUMMER CAMP RULES 

Golden: We treat others and all things with respect

We treat others with kindness.
We communicate with words and do not hit each other.
We only use appropriate language, profanity will not be allowed.
We eat only at lunch and snack time, in designated areas.
We clean up after ourselves.
We take turns.
We respect and listen to our camp counselors and other adults.
We put things back where we found them.
We do not throw rocks or any other debris, we respect the land and the nature around us.

 The following guidelines will be followed for any infraction:  

1st Offense:     Camp Director, and/or Counselor talks to child/children, logs infraction and verbally informs parent.  A behavior reflection sheet will be given to students who have the ability to write sentances. 

2nd Offense:     Camp Director, and/or Counselor talks to child/children, logs infraction and notifies parent in writing.  A behavior reflection sheet will be given to students who have the ability to write sentances. 

3rd Offense:     Dismissal of child/children from Camp Riverdance, for the remainder of the summer camp year in which the fraction(s) occured.  

 

CAMP RIVERDANCE PROCEDURE FOR ADMINISTRATION OF PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION The following is Camp Riverdance' written procedure for the administration of prescription medication by the Summer Camp staff during operating hours.  

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATION FORM: The parent must obtain a letter from the child’s physician or health provider indicating the need to administer the prescribed medication to the child during the Summer Camp day. ALL MEDICATIONS MUST BE IN ORIGINAL CONTAINER AND CURRENT. The camp director must have each parent complete and sign the Authorization for Medication form prior to administration of any medication to a child. Responsibilities of the Physician/Health Care Provider: The physician or health care provider must indicate the following in writing:   Name of the medication, dosage, frequency and method of administration. Description of anticipated adverse reactions of the child to the medications. Physicians/Health Care Provider signature. Parent’s signature approving the administration of the medication (noted on the Authorization of Medication Form). 

STORAGE OF MEDICATIONS: All medications will be stored and secured. The camp director and authorized staff will be the only individuals with access to the medications that are stored. Facility does NOT have refrigeration availability at this time. 

RESPONSIBILITY FOR ADMINISTERING MEDICATIONS: The Camp Director or authorized staff will administer all prescribed medication to those children whose parent(s) have signed the Authorization for Medication Form, according to the physician’s orders.  

AUTHORIZATION FOR MEDICATION

ONLY PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION WILL BE GIVEN No medication shall be given by the staff except in special circumstances arranged by the Summer Camp Director, at which time a signed note from the parent/guardian giving permission must be on file.

I have read and understand the discipline policy as set forth in the Parent Handbook. I understand that Camp Riverdance has the right to remove my child for disciplinary reasons.

Thank you for reading Camp Riverdance's Parent Handbook. If you have any concerns, comments, questions or feedback please contact our camp director: Kathina Calip (209) 314-5442

We are looking forward to a fantastic summer!