Knowing what to expect when you and your camper (or just your camper) arrive at camp can help ease any nerves, allow you to plan properly, and just feel more comfortable when you arrive. We want all of those things! Below is a quick overview of what to expect whether you are driving your camper to one of our bases or course start sites, or if your camper will be flying in alone.
Driving to Balsam Base or Eagle View Ranch
If you are driving your camper to our Balsam Base or Eagle View Ranch, the time you scheduled as your Inbrief will serve as your arrival time. You will be greeted by one of our Directors and guided where to park. There will be a lot of campers and families arriving and things will be moving rather quickly. However, we do want you to have a chance to ask any questions, so we recommend writing them down the night before, that way you don’t forget once you arrive. Please note that the entire Drop Off/Registration/Inbrief process should last 30-45 minutes.
Registration
Once you are parked, you will then head toward registration where we will verify that all paperwork and payment has been completed. We will then introduce you to your child’s Course Director, who will introduce you to the field staff who will be leading your child’s group.
The Inbrief
The Inbrief period is a time for you to speak directly with one of your child’s field staff, discuss your child’s interests and strengths, and what your goals are for the course. We will use this to develop a Student Achievement Plan for your child. You will also review any medications your child is on and any other details that our staff would need to know to make your child’s camp experience a success!
*If your child is attending a Florida, California, or New York course, your Inbrief will be done by phone the night before.
Saying Goodbye
Once you have done your Inbrief, you will have some time to unload your campers belongings and say goodbye. We recommend keeping this time brief as it will be easier for your camper to transition and join their group.
California and Florida Course Start Sites
If your child is attending a California or Florida course, you will meet at your course’s designated location (LAX, SFO, or FLL). You will have done your Inbrief the night before, but you will still have a chance to meet one of your child’s staff members. The staff member will be sure to count your child’s medication to be sure there is an accurate amount.
Flying to Camp Unaccompanied
If your child is flying to camp unaccompanied, your Inbrief will be over the phone the day of arrival. During this call, you will have a chance to speak with one of your child’s field staff, discuss your child’s interests and strengths, and what your goals are for the course. We will use this to develop a Student Achievement Plan for your child. You will also review any medications your child is on and any other details that our staff would need to know.
*If your child is attending a Florida, California, or New York course, your Inbrief will be done by phone the night before.
Meeting Your Child in the Airport
A member of the SOAR staff will be ready to meet your child as they exit security before entering baggage claim. We will make sure all of their baggage is received, medication is correct, and notify you that your child is now with us.