We understand that the rules and regulations are not the most exciting part of working at a summer camp. However, they are essential. So understanding what exactly the rules are and why they are so integral will not only ensure that you are not breaking any rules but also ensure that you can be the best camp worker that you can be.
In this post, we will not only talk about the non-negotiable rules and regulations of working at a summer camp but also the unwritten rules that our team of experienced campers have shared.
Why Are There Rules For Summer Camp Workers?
As with any workplace, when working at a summer camp there are certain rules and regulations put in place that must be followed. This is not to make workers’ lives miserable or to stop you from having a good time. These rules are to ensure that the camp environment is safe, open, and enjoyable for all campers and employees.
Summer camps are designed to ensure that kids have a safe and fun environment to learn new skills and make memories over the summer break. Having strict rules and regulations that workers and campers must follow helps to ensure that these objectives are being met.
Rules That You Must Follow When Working At A Summer Camp
Here are the rules and regulations that you must follow when an employee is at summer camps across America.
Most summer camps in America have very strict rules when it comes to smoking in and around the camp’s premises. You will find that a vast majority of camps have a zero-tolerance approach to smoking, meaning that you are prohibited from smoking anywhere at camp.
Similarly to smoking, most summer camps across America have very strict rules when it comes to the consumption of alcohol on the premises. Camps are a completely alcohol-free zone and will not allow you to drink in or out of the camp during your contract.
In addition to this, America has a very strict drinking age of 21 and they do not take underage drinking lightly. So if you are below the legal drinking age of 21 we would strongly recommend that you do not drink at all even on your travels after camp.
All summer camps in America have a very strict ZERO tolerance to the possession of drugs. If you are caught in possession of drugs your contract will be immediately terminated and you will be fired.
In addition to this, we will have to report you to local authorities which could ultimately lead to imprisonment or deportation.
Summer camp jobs are for individuals who are prepared to work hard, learn and improve. If you are not prepared to do everything you can to be successful in your job, then you probably will not be.
You will be fully trained up by your summer camp in the week before campers arrival. All that is asked of you is that you are punctual, take care of your performance and do everything you can to ensure that campers are safe and having the time of their lives.
As in any workplace, summer camps in America have a zero-tolerance stance on any form of abuse. This can be physical, sexual, emotional or abandonment abuse. If you are found to be abusing any member of the camp your contract will be immediately terminated and we will take the necessary steps to ensure that it is taken care of in the correct manner.
3 Key Unwritten Rules Coming From Experienced Camp Workers
In addition to the strict rules of the camps, there are many unwritten rules that you need to take into account.
Here at Wild Packs, our team is made up of individuals who have first-hand experience working at summer camps in America. They have all combined their experience and knowledge to come up with three unwritten rules you must follow.
Avoid Personal Questions From Campers
Getting to know your campers and building relationships is vital for helping them to have the best time. However, we all know that kids can often ask one too many questions. In the event of this, the best practice is to steer clear of answering.
The main questions to avoid at all costs are anything relating to political views, relationships, and other topics that are best to remain private. It is also important to note that with kids, the more questions you answer, the more they ask.
If you are ever uncomfortable with the questions that the kids ask, switch the conversation topic to a fun activity coming up. While they do try and get answers out of you a simple diversion is normally all that is needed to swiftly move the conversation on.
DO NOT Use Your Phone While Working
Another unwritten rule that should always be followed is to never use your phone while working on camp. While this may be a tough one for a lot of people to hear, most camps are located in the middle of stunning wildlife and have little to no cell service anyway.
This is one unwritten rule that will help you live in the moment and fully enjoy everything that you do over the summer. No phone distractions will also force you to have more conversations with your colleagues and form stronger bonds and friendships.
While at first, this may seem very daunting, it will be one of the most freeing and liberating things you do all summer.
Watch Your Language
Another unwritten rule of working at summer camps is that any foul or offensive language is completely off-limits. This includes swearing, profanities or anything that may be deemed offensive.
At the end of the day, you are a role model to these kids so anything they hear you say, they will likely repeat. Things such as swearing and offensive language will be picked up by other staff members and reported. Because of your vital role in camp ensuring that you are the best version of yourself is very important.
Start Your Summer Camp Journey With Wild Packs Today
Here at Wild Packs, we have helped countless individuals like you embark on a summer of a lifetime working at summer camps across America for over 15 years.
No experience? No problem!
Our team of experienced campers will take on board your passions and interests and use them to match you up with the perfect camp.
Are you interested in working at a US summer camp in the summer of 2027?