TLAC

Cabins are large with beds and mattresses provided. Campers must supply their own sleeping gear. Sleeping bags, pillows, and extra blankets are recommended, however blankets and sheets will serve well. There is no heat in the cabins, so be sure to pack appropriately for the weather.

We do not accept cabin requests. Part of the TLAC experience is getting to meet new people with similar interests. We endeavor to have at least two to three students from the same school in the same cabin. Also, students of the same age and gender are generally in the same cabin area, where cabins are located next to each other. Students will have free time where they can hang out with their friends and catch up on their new experiences.

To ensure campers are safe and sound, TLAC camp staff will visit cabins after lights out each evening.

Here’s what a typical day at camp might look like:

Evening program participation is mandatory for all students. The program is designed to get campers involved in a variety of experiences, including student performances, staff ensembles, performance groups, professional artists, campfire sing-alongs, dances, and more.

A registered nurse is in residence for the week of TLAC. Students’ confidential medical information will be kept at the Nurse’s Station. Necessary prescription medications (except inhalers) are stored at the Nurse’s Station and administered by the camp nurse.

Homesickness and a bit of anxiety are normal in an away-from-home experience. While at camp, students are encouraged to speak with camp staff if they are feeling anxious or homesick, but it is a good idea for students to arrive with strategies in place that can help them work through these feelings and have an amazing week with new friends and experiences.

Here are some resources to help prepare for camp:

• Navigating Childhood Anxiety: Strategies for Understanding and Support – School Mental Health Ontario
• 13 Tips for Helping Anxious Kids Enjoy Summer Camp – Child Mind Institute

Refunds will not be provided for students who go home early due to homesickness and/or anxiety.

Campers and staff eat in a common dining hall where they will enjoy balanced meals prepared by Camp White Pine staff. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free alternatives are available at every meal. All dietary restrictions listed in student applications will be communicated to Camp White Pine. Students are expected to advocate for themselves while at camp without direct supervision.

Do not send snacks to camp. Food in camper cabins encourages the presence of animals and/or insect infestations.

Personal mobile devices (phones, tablets, and smartwatches) at camp are counter to the environment we are trying to create, and are therefore not permitted. Any personal mobile device brought to camp will be confiscated and returned only to parents/guardians at the end of camp. A phone is available in the Camp Office for emergency communication.

Exceptions will be made for documented medical reasons, such as diabetes continuous glucose monitoring. In such cases, the device is to be used for medical management only.

Students may wish to bring alarm clocks, digital cameras, MP3 players/iPods, ereaders, or disposable cameras, however, neither TLAC nor Camp White Pine bear any responsibility if these devices are lost, stolen, or damaged while at TLAC or en route.

Students may need to bring their Chromebooks to camp to study or complete assigned work.

Various recreation facilities are available for use at specified times each day. The swimming area is only open when lifeguards are on duty. In order to swim during supervised free swim time without a personal floatation device (PFD), students must complete a swim test when they arrive at camp. Any student who chooses not to take the swim test, along with all students participating in Waterfront courses must wear a PFD at all times when near the water, and parents/guardians must complete a Swim Ability and Swim Comfort Assessment Questionnaire prior to camp. Please see OPHEA’s swim assessment guidelines for more information.

A study hall is available to support students wanting to study, read, or complete homework. Students are strongly encouraged to gather all files and downloads etc prior to camp to facilitate their school work at camp, as the internet connection may be intermittent.

Students will travel to camp by school bus. Students are not permitted to drive to camp themselves. Parents/guardians are invited to camp on the Friday evening, where they can view performances and arts displays and pick up their child. Information regarding student pick up on Family Night will be provided to parents/guardians.

The weather in May can be unpredictable and campers should be prepared for both warm and cool temperatures as well as rain—or even snow! Campers should bring extra layers of warm clothes and bedding. Don’t forget the sunscreen and bug spray!