FAQ's - ChabadEQ.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GENERAL INFO:

❓ If I'm a new parent, who do I speak to for more information about the camp program?

The camp director - Mrs. Zalmanov at 917-613-0223.
Please message your name and family name, and arrange a time to call. Mrs. Zalmanov will be happy to address all your questions and concerns at a time that works for you.

❓What if I have questions about the registration process and payments?

If you have any questions about the registration and fees, please email the office at [email protected].
An office staff member will reach back within 24 hours, Mon-Thurs.

❓How do I register my child?

You will only be able to register using our online portal.
You will need to add your kids to the system before clicking register and completing the process & payment.
**Please keep in mind that you will need a school reference and payment ready to complete. After 15 minutes of inactivity, the process will need to be restarted.
***Important: You will need to submit an updated medical record for each child before camp starts, in order to be allowed into camp.

❓Will there be an orientation before camp starts?

Yes, there will be orientation / t-shirt pickup days, to be announced closer to camp.
You will receive this information closer to, once you are registered for camp.

DIVISIONS:

❓What are the different divisions you have in your camp?

Kiddie Camp Division (Pre-K, K) (Boys & Girls)
1st Grade Division (1st) (Boys & Girls)
Older Division 2nd - 6th (Boys/Girls)
Sports Division 5th - 6th (Boys)
CIT Girls Division - 7th
CTeen JR VIP Travel 7th (Boys & Girls)
CTeen VIP Travel 8th-11th (Boys & Girls)

**All the bunks are created based on the grade the child will be entering in the fall, and are split according to gender from 2nd grade and up.

BUS TRANSPORTATION:

❓Is there bus transportation provided?

Bus transportation is available in the Queens area for a family fee.
You will be able to sign up until registration closes in May, and is based on availability.

❓To which locations do you provide bus transportation?

Locations include Hollis Hills, Holliswood, Jamaica Estates, Fresh Meadows, Kew Gardens Hills, Briarwood, Kew Gardens (in select areas), Forest Hills, & Rego Park.
Currently there is NO transportation available to Floral Park, Whitestone, Long Island, Great Neck, Brooklyn or Manhattan.
Please reach out for locations not listed.

❓What time does the bus leave to and from camp? How does it work?

In general, bus routes are up to an hour long, beginning daily around 8:00 AM, and leaving camp at 3:50 PM. On Fridays the bus leaves camp at 2:20 PM.
Exact timings are not available until your child is placed on a route closer to camp start.
Stops can be either by your home, or the closest corner. However, we do not guarantee specific stops, and will be at the discretion of the bus company hired to make the routes.
Bus Monitors will be on each bus as well, to ensure supervision, and send live locations.
Your exact time, and stop will be provided to you before camp begins, and you will be added to a bus WhatsApp group for updates.

STAFF:

❓How old are the counselors?

The preschool bunks are run by experienced teachers, and assisted by at least 3 counselors per bunk.
1st grade division bunks are run by an experienced 1st grade teacher, or staff member, assisted by 2-3 other counselors per bunk.
Girls Divisions bunks are run by high school or post high school aged counselors / teachers.
The Boys divisions bunks are run by married Rabbis / adult staff, assisted by high school aged counselors.

❓Who are the supervising adult staff on site during camp hours?

During camp, there is a general camp director, assisted by an onsite director, as well as office staff.
Additionally, every division has their own on-site division heads, supervising their divisions at all times.
For activities, there is an on-site sports director, art director, and activity director.

DRESS CODE

❓Must campers wear a camp T-shirt every day? How many will they receive?

Yes, we require that all campers wear a Camp Gan Israel T-shirt each day.
Each camper will receive at least two T-shirts before camp begins.
Since all camp staff & campers wear camp shirts, we are instantly recognizable to each other. While on field trips camp shirts distinguish our campers and staff from other visitors. While at camp, it allows our staff to recognize any visiting children, parents, etc.

❓Is there an additional dress code?

Besides for camp t-shirts, there are no requirements.
Boys will need to wear a Kippah, or baseball cap.

❓Will I be able to purchase extra T-shirts?

Yes, there will be extra t-shirts for purchase at orientation, and during camp. However, they will be in limited supply.
If you are interested in purchasing extra t-shirts, please make sure to request it in your online application, under the box titled t-shirt sizes.

TRIPS / SWIMMING:

❓What pools does the camp use?

The camp uses an outdoor pool, called Royal Ranch, located a few minutes away from camp.
The campers are transported there via bus transportation, on their respective swim days.

❓What happens when it rains?

We still require children to bring their swimming gear.
If it rains during the swim time, an indoor activity will be provided instead.

❓How often do they go swimming?

All divisions go swimming or have water activities 3 times a week.
The sports division goes swimming only twice a week.

❓What is the safety protocol for swimming?

All pools are watched by certified lifeguards, as well as counselors assigned.
All campers are kept in the shallow end of the pool, unless they pass a deep water test.

❓How often and what days does the camp go on a trip?

Campers goes on a trip once a week, each division on a different day.
Mondays or Thursdays- Sports Division,
Tuesdays - Girls Division,
Wednesdays - Boys Division,
Thursdays - Kiddie & 1st Grade Division.

FOOD:

❓What food is provided at camp?

Campers will need to bring their own snacks and water bottle. Candy & sugary drinks, such as iced tea, apple juice and soda are not allowed in camp.
Breakfast, hot lunch, and an afternoon snack will be provided daily by camp.
On trip days sandwiches will be provided. Lunches include pasta, fish sticks & rice, chicken nuggets, etc.
An updated menu will be sent out closer to camp.

DURING CAMP:

❓ What does my camper need to bring each day?

Campers should bring a water bottle and snacks daily. On swim days, they will need a bathing suit and towel, and sunscreen.

❓ How can I speak with my child's counselor?

A call to the camp office will answer most questions. Since counselors are constantly supervising groups and activities, messages will be taken at the camp office. Please leave your name and evening phone number and the division head will return your call as soon as possible.

❓ How can I speak with a Camp Director?

The directors are available to answer your questions and discuss your concerns. Feel free to message them, and they will get back to you within 24 hours.

❓ How do I arrange to pick up my camper during the camp day?

If you have to pick up your camper during the day, please notify our office. Once we are aware of your arrival time, we can arrange to have your camper ready for you.
Any changes for dismissal must be sent to the office by 1:00 PM.

❓ How does my camper find a lost item?

Please mark all belongings with your camper's name. This is very important since shirts, backpacks, etc. are identical and individual items are difficult to identify without a label.
Lost & Found items are available each day in the front lobby. At the end of camp, all remaining items will be thrown out or given away.

❓ Are we obligated to tip our child's counselor? Bus driver?

Tips are appreciated and encouraged!
If you wish to do so, the suggested amount is $25 per counselor.

❓What if I have an additional inquiry?

Please email us at [email protected] and we will do our best to respond within 24 hours. Please include a phone number for us to reach you at as well.