FAQ
"Our kids love every day of camp, and they enjoy their friends and counselors so much! They have fun stories to share and are making great memories with you all. We truly appreciate everyone who comes together to make the summer memorable and enjoyable for our kids."
- Sababa and Kef Camper Parent
Q: What age group do I register for?
A: Camp groupings are categorized by rising grade, so register them for the group with the grade they will be entering in fall.
Q: When should I register?
A: We recommend registering as soon as possible, as spots are limited and spaces fill quickly. There are waitlists for groups if the registration capacity is reached, and if placed on a waitlist you will be contacted if a space becomes available. Registration (if spaces are available) closes the Thursday before the following week of camp at noon.
Q: Is it OK if I’m not Jewish?
A: We welcome folks of all backgrounds and identities at the MJCC! All Jewish Enrichment activities are designed for all children to learn and participate in, including activities like crafts, singing, and dance.
Q: What if I need to cancel my registration?
A: We understand that things come up and plans change. We ask that all cancellations are made at least 3 weeks prior to the start of the week of camp being canceled. A refund with a small cancellation fee will be issued if done 3 weeks in advance. For emergencies and illness related absences, we offer refunds on a case by case basis.
Q: How do I request to be with a friend at camp?
A. Fill out this form to submit a friend request.
Q: My child isn’t potty trained. Is that OK?
A: While we completely understand that many younger children may not be fully potty trained, children must be fully potty trained to attend camp. Counselors regularly suggest bathroom times and have scheduled potty breaks; however, they are not able to assist with diaper/pull-up changes.
Q: What if my child can’t swim?
A: That’s not a problem! Campers that cannot/don’t want to swim will be able to do alternate activities while the rest of their group swims.
Q: Will my preschool aged camper swim?
A: Unfortunately, we do not allow pre-k aged kids to swim for safety reasons. We understand that some 3 and 4 year-olds may be able to swim; however, the majority of children this age are not confident and comfortable enough to swim.
Q: Do you provide life jackets?
A: Yes! Simcha (Kindergarteners) are required to wear life jackets. All other age groups must wear a life jacket unless they pass a swim test with the lifeguards. Swim tests are held once a week at the beginning of the week.
Q: Can you provide individualized support for my child?
A: Our summer camp is a place where values are taught, community is developed, and friendships and memories are made. Our mission is to be accessible for campers with various needs and backgrounds, and our goal is to provide a successful camp experience for all. If your child requires additional assistance or support, we strive to make appropriate accommodations in all our camp programs. We work to understand and thoughtfully address each camper’s needs to determine what resources we have to enable meaningful participation. For more information, please contact the Camp Management Staff at daycamp@oregonjcc.org or 971.254.8332.
Q: What if my child doesn't want to participate in activities?
A: Our calm space is a dedicated room for campers who may need time and space away from their group. Campers may come and go from this space as needed. If a camper ever feels overwhelmed, overstimulated, or just needs some alone time, this space will have sensory friendly games and counselors available to support them. If you believe your child may need frequent access to this space, please note this in your camper’s health form and inform staff of any specific details regarding your camper’s needs.
Q: What should my child bring to camp?
A: Everyday essentials for camp include a spare pair of clothes, vegetarian lunch and snacks, a water bottle, a swimsuit, a towel, and sunscreen. Even if your child doesn’t swim, some activities may involve water, so we encourage swimsuits to be packed in case it’s needed.
Q: Why do we need to pack vegetarian lunches and snacks?
A: We are a Kosher campus, which means we all bring meat-free and shellfish-free foods. We ask that regardless of your dietary practices, your child brings no meat or shellfish in their lunches. Peanuts and other nuts are OK!