Q.
Is scholarship funding available
for deserving children who's families are likely to require financial
assistance?
A.
Dancing coyote camp
is thankful to the wonderful support from the families and children
who have attended. We are fortunate to be able to offer some financial
assistance to children where our help could make a difference.
Q.
What happens in case of an animal sighting?
A.
Most of the animals we encounter are not threatening in any way. If
we should come upon an animal that is to be avoided, our
staff is trained in procedures to deal with any situation.
Q.
What will the children be learning?
A.
Our teachers provide lessons in a wide
variety of topics using the Montessori method:
involving children physically and mentally in the learning experience.
Q.
What food will the children eat while at camp?
A.
The meals are designed to be healthy, nutritious,
and delicious. Since tastes and preferences vary, we have a variety
of nutritious food available at each meal. For special requirements,
please contact us prior to your camp session.
Q.
What accommodations does the camp have for showers and restrooms?
A.
We have new restrooms and showers this year, although due to popular
demand the solar shower will still be an option. If a child needs to
visit the restroom in the middle of the night, the stars and moon are
the only guiding light in addition to his or her flashlight. This possibility
is discussed and practiced the first day of camp, until the child is
comfortable using his or her night vision.
Q.
Does Dancing Coyote Camp have emergency procedures in case of
an accident or illness at camp?
A.
The camp director, Gayle Holeton, maintained an EMT accreditation to
handle medical emergencies when she was on the ski patrol at Stevens
Pass for over ten years. The staff at Dancing Coyote Camp are all trained
in first aid procedures. There is an established
medical policy and procedure guide. A full-charge first aid kit
will be on site to take care of scrapes and bruises and for more serious
injuries. First aid fanny packs are worn by staff when out of reach
of the main kit. If further medical assistance is required we will take
the student to the nearby clinic in Leavenworth and reach the parent
for further directions. The camp is only 2.5 miles from the Cascade
Medical Center in Leavenworth, which is equipped with an emergency
room, and is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Q.
How will my child get his or her medications at camp?
A.
The camp application requires the submission
of a medical record form and emergency
medical card to list any special allergies or medicines that any
individual camper needs to take. All staff has been trained to insure
the timeliness, accuracy and application of medicines supplied by childrens'
physicians. Staff will discreetly dispense medication if prescribed
by a physician, and provided by parents in its original container. Prior
discussion with the director is required.
Q.
What happens in the event of a nearby forest fire? Are there
established fire safety procedures?
A.
Since the camp is close to Leavenworth and that area can be under fire
watch in dry summers, we take direction from the Forest Service in case
of evacuation. There are over 200 trained volunteer forest fire fighters
living in and around Leavenworth. The children will learn about nature’s
rejuvenation process by visiting past burned sites and observing what
has occurred since the fire of 1994.
No fires will be allowed in the camp area except a small covered council
fire cared for only by the staff. There are two ways to drive off the
hill in case of forest fire and the backside of the camp is only 1200
yards above Highway 2 and the Wenatchee River. If necessary, campers
and staff could get down this direction quickly and safely on foot.
Q.
What if a conduct or safety rule is broken? How does Dancing
Coyote Camp administer disciplinary action?
A.
Safety rules are discussed and are made clear to all student campers
upon arrival. These few rules deal with boundaries, sharp objects, no
open flames, and respect for other campers and leaders. Any threat to
this safety may result in a child missing an activity or having to shorten
their stay at camp. The application process
allows us to screen the children to verify that each student camper
is a contributing member of the group, ensuring a great time for all.
Q.
What if my child will have her or his birthday at camp?
A.
Parents may miss their child on her or his birthday when it falls within
the camp session chosen. Rest assured that your child has another great
day at camp. A phone call home may be prearranged. Fellow campers come
up with some creative ways to make the day special!
Q.
What is done in the case of homesickness?
A.
This is a common occurrence. Fortunately, it is not contagious, and
lasts for a fleeting moment. Typically the child just needs a bit of
reassurance and quality time with a leader. A call home may be prescribed
along with a healthy dose of empathy and understanding before moving
on to the next fun thing.
Dancing Coyote Camp — The Nature Awareness
Experience for Children Ages 7-14
